The Power of Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Heart Health - NL-091

Omega 3 fatty acids can be easily considered as one of the top nutrients for maintaining your heart health. These polyunsaturated fatty acids are essential nutrients that you need in your diet as your body doesn’t produce these fats in sufficient amounts. Omega 3 helps with the proper functioning of the heart, brain, bones and eyes. As an important component of the cell membranes, they help maintain the structure and fluidity of the membranes. Omega- 3 fatty acids also act as precursors or raw materials for the production of chemical substances that regulate various functions such as blood pressure, blood clotting and inflammatory responses in the body. 

Heart health benefits of omega 3 fatty acids 

Studies suggest that people who are at high risk for CVD may benefit from omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular related outcomes through various mechanisms. Most importantly, it reduces inflammation which is believed to be an underlying cause of most of the chronic diseases including heart disease. Chronic inflammation affects the health of arteries and increases the risk of atherosclerosis (accumulation of plaques that leads to hardening and narrowing of arteries). 

1. Reduces inflammation, a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease 
   
2. Helps lower your triglyceride levels. High triglycerides levels in the blood increase the risk of atherosclerosis that contributes to heart disease and stroke
   
3. Helps to lower blood pressure in people with high blood pressure 
   
4. Reduces the risk of irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia) 
   
5. Inhibits platelet adhesion, which prevents blood clotting and improves blood circulation 
   
6. Reduces insulin resistance and lowers the risk of metabolic syndrome. These two parameters are major risk factors for heart disease 

Oily fish is one of the best sources of omega 3 fatty acids. It is also found in seaweed, algae, walnuts, flax seeds, chia seeds, wheat germ and green leafy vegetables. While it is always better to get omega-3s through your diet, omega 3 supplements are also a great alternative if you are looking to include these healthy fats in your health regimen. 

There are three types of Omega 3 fatty acids: ALA, DHA and EPA. 

ALA (that we get from plant derived sources) is a truly essential fatty acid as our body can’t make it on its own. Our body converts some amount of ALA into DHA and EPA (types of fatty acids that are found in fish). But this conversion is not very efficient and doesn’t work too well in providing our body with reasonable amounts of DHA and EPA. The best way to get your EPA and DHA is to eat oily fish. 

In addition, plant-based supplements such as “Sacha Inchi” are a great option, particularly for vegans and vegetarians who often find it challenging to get their omega 3s from usual animal-based sources such as fish and fish oil. 

In addition to maintaining heart health, omega 3 fats also offer other incredible health benefits. They play an important role in the growth and development of the brain in infants, supports general brain function, improves skin health, reduces joint inflammation, promotes bone health and boosts immunity.  Omega 3 is a major structural component of the retina of the eye and helps prevent macular degeneration that may lead to blindness in the elderly. 

References: 

Khan et al. Effect of omega-3 fatty acids on cardiovascular outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. 2021. 

Herbs for Better Sleep: Natural Solutions for Insomnia - NL-090

Getting seven to nine hours of restful sleep each day is important for your body to function optimally. Not getting enough sleep affects your health at many levels, whether it is your mood, physical health, energy levels or brain performance. If you are someone who often struggles with sleep and you are looking for a safer alternative than a sleeping pill to help you sleep better, this article is for you. 

Restful sleep, particularly at night, drives your body into an extensive “repair, healing and regeneration” mode, where it secretes growth and repair hormones, performs tissue repair, rebuilds muscles, strengthens immunity, removes waste and toxins from the brain and helps the brain to re-catalogue learning, information and memories. Not getting enough sleep can leave you feeling foggy, tired and irritable the next day, affecting your mood, productivity and coping mechanisms to sail through the day. Did you know that deep, restorative sleep also helps ease pain and manage symptoms of anxiety and depression?  

Let’s have a look at certain herbs that help you relax and sleep better, with their amazing ability to manage stress, reduce fatigue and calm the nervous system. These herbs are packed with bioactive compounds such as phenolic acids, flavonoids and alkaloids, with remarkable anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.  

Herbs that help you sleep better

Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha helps you sleep better as it improves the quality of sleep and also improves sleep duration. This revitalizing herb calms the nervous system, and helps you relax. One of the most important features of this herb is that it is an adaptogen, which helps the body rejuvenate and manage stress more effectively, in turn aiding in getting good sleep. In fact, ashwagandha is one of the most widely used herbs for managing stress, anxiety and depression.  Studies show that the herb is quite effective in reducing the symptoms of anxiety in people with insomnia.  

Valeria Root: The tea made from valerian root improves the quality of sleep and helps you get to sleep faster. Also known as nature’s valium, valerian root is loaded with various bioactive compounds, such as valeric acid, iridoids and flavonoids that promote calmness, reduce stress and improve sleep quality. It is also known to reduce symptoms of anxiety, which has a beneficial effect on your sleep. 

Jiaogulan: Jiaogulan is an adaptogenic herb that reduces fatigue and helps in stress management. It calms a hyperactive nervous system, helps lower anxiety levels, improves mood and promotes healthy sleep. Also known as the ‘Herb of Immortality’, jiaogulan contains bioactive compounds called saponins that have amazing health-promoting properties. 

Reishi Mushroom: As a powerful adaptogen, reishi mushroom helps maintain overall balance in the body and improves the body’s response and resilience to stress. The mushroom is densely packed with a wide variety of bio-active compounds – such as polysaccharides, triterpenes, amino acids, vitamins and minerals. All these ingredients work together to calm the nerves, reduce cortisol levels, lessen fatigue and promote better sleep. Reishi mushroom, also known as Ling Zhi in Chinese and Mannentake in Japanese, strengthens immunity and corrects hormonal imbalance triggered by stress. 

Chamomile: Chamomile works as a mild sedative and relaxes the nervous system. It contains apigenin, an anti-oxidant compound that binds with certain receptors in the brain that calms the nervous system and reduces anxiety. Research suggests that chamomile improves sleep quality and helps adults with sleep issues (insomnia) function better in daytime. It also eases symptoms in people with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

Lavender: Drinking lavender tea (brewing dried flower buds in hot water) promotes healthy and peaceful sleep. It calms the nerves, and relaxes the body, thus improving sleep quality. It also helps reduce stress and anxiety. 

References: 

1. Langade et al. Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Insomnia and Anxiety: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Study. Cureus. 2019
   
2. Mohsen Adib-Hajbaghery, Seyedeh Nesa Mousavi. The effects of chamomile extract on sleep quality among elderly people: A clinical trial. Complement Ther Med. 2017
   

Supplements for Skin Health: For a nourished, glowing and happy skin - NL-089

There is much more to a healthy skin than just maintaining a healthy skincare regimen. Overall healthy skin with a glowing and youthful appearance is a combination of following a healthy diet, healthy lifestyle, and regular skincare routine. Unfortunately, today’s diet is lacking in micronutrients that are an absolute must for maintaining your skin health and appearance. In addition, factors such as smoking, lack of sleep, consumption of processed foods, and excessive sun exposure lead to oxidative damage that expedite both intrinsic and extrinsic ageing. For example, sugary foods wreak havoc on skin health, making it age faster than usual. Similarly, smoking directly damages your skin health as it breaks-down collagen, causes dehydration, accelerates oxidative damage and contributes to poor skin tone and premature signs of ageing. 

As such, your skin needs that extra support to improve its intrinsic ability to heal and repair itself, improve immunity and be healthy inside and out.  Taking the correct supplements can help you reduce the signs of fatigue and premature ageing – such as fine lines, wrinkles and sagging and also help manage skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Let’s look at some of the best supplements for skin health that will give your skin a youthful, radiant appearance.

Supplements for Skin Health

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from oxidative damage that causes premature ageing inside out. Vitamin C, as an essential component in collagen synthesis, also helps improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In addition, vitamin C improves your skin’s immunity and helps in healthy wound healing. 

Vitamin D3: Studies show that vitamin D deficiency can lead to various skin issues such as dry skin, eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis. Vitamin D3 supplements improve your skin’s immunity, reduce inflammation in the skin and help improve symptoms in various inflammatory skin conditions. 

Glutathione: Also called the "master antioxidant", glutathione has a formidable ability to reduce oxidative damage that causes premature ageing in the skin with signs such as dullness, fine lines, uneven skin tone and sagging. Glutathione supplements brighten the skin, reduce signs of hyperpigmentation and help you achieve an even skin tone. Glutathione is a key player in liver detoxification, and helps remove toxins from the body. This is another mechanism through which it supports skin health and helps you achieve healthy, clear skin. 

Turmeric: Curcumin, one of the most important bioactive compounds in turmeric, has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Taking turmeric supplements can help reduce skin inflammation and improve skin tone. Turmeric supports the body’s ability to detoxify and flush out toxins that can mess up your skin health in more ways than one. It improves blood circulation, reduces skin dullness and makes your skin clear and blemish-free.  

Sacha Inchi: An excellent source of plant-based omega 3 fatty acids, Sacha Inchi is a powerhouse of nutrients and antioxidants (such as vitamin A and alpha tocopherol, a form of vitamin E) that makes it a very healthy supplement for your skin and hair health. The high content of healthy fats, amino acids, and vitamin E in sacha inchi helps nourish, moisturise and replenish your skin. In addition, vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from UV damage, reducing the risk of premature wrinkles and other signs of ageing. 

There are other supplements such as resveratrol, biotin and trace minerals such as zinc, iron, copper and selenium that contribute to your overall skin health and appearance. Skin supplements when taken along with a healthy, wholesome and well-balanced diet provide vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that protect your skin from oxidative damage and inflammation, and endow you with a rejuvenated and youthful looking skin.

References:  

Umar et al. Vitamin D and the Pathophysiology of Inflammatory Skin Diseases. Skin Pharmacol Physiol 2018.

Understanding Antioxidants: Protecting Your Body from Oxidative Stress NL-088

Antioxidants are compounds that protect cells and tissues from the damage caused by free radicals. At high concentrations, free radicals cause oxidative damage and inflammation, leading to many chronic health conditions such as heart disease, cognitive decline, obesity, diabetes, vision loss, arthritis and even cancer. Let’s understand how antioxidants work to keep free radicals in check and combat oxidative stress. 

Free radicals, oxidative stress and inflammation 

Free radicals are molecules that are naturally generated as by-products during metabolic reactions. At low concentrations, these molecules are necessary. For example, your immune cells release powerful free radicals to destroy pathogens. Free radicals are also involved in cellular signaling. However, certain factors such as smoking, UV exposure, unhealthy diet, chronic stress, and everyday exposure to chemicals in the form of pesticides, artificial food colouring and air pollution result in the excessive production of free radicals. Unrestricted formation of free radicals creates oxidative stress in the body. 

Our body is well-equipped to manage and repair oxidative damage by several natural defense mechanisms. For example, it naturally produces antioxidant compounds and enzymes that work as the first line of defense against oxidative damage. Your cells make super-powerful antioxidants such as glutathione and superoxide dismutase (SOD), which play a critical role in defusing free radicals as well as regenerating other antioxidants, like vitamin C and E for an added antioxidant boost. 

You also get antioxidants when you consume a well-balanced diet, comprising of fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs and nuts. Vitamins, minerals, and polyphenols found in whole foods work as potent antioxidants, however, excessive generation of free radicals overwhelms the natural mechanisms through which your body scavenges, neutralizes and removes free radicals, thus creating oxidative stress. 

Unchecked production and accumulation of free radicals causes oxidative damage to cells and their fragile structures. Free radicals contain unpaired electrons, which makes them hunt for extra electrons in order to stabilize. That is why free radicals attack nearby healthy cells and cellular structures (proteins, lipids and DNA) to steal their electrons. This disrupts the normal structure and functions of cells and their components – causing inflammation and ageing. We know how oxidative stress and inflammation can initiate the progression of many chronic health ailments such as heart disease, arthritis, type 2 diabetes, depression, cancer, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. 

How do antioxidants work?

Antioxidants neutralize free radicals through a number of mechanisms. For example, antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E donate their extra electrons to the free radicals, effectively neutralizing these volatile molecules. Antioxidants also scavenge free radicals, bind to metals and prevent them from reacting with biological molecules, and even activate pathways that enhances the body’s natural production of antioxidant substances such as glutathione.   

It is true that a well-balanced diet is an excellent source of all kinds of antioxidants that you need to fight and neutralize free radicals, thus restricting oxidative damage and reducing the risk of many chronic health conditions. However, you should consider taking antioxidant supplements that will further reinforce your body’s inherent capacity to fight free radicals and offset oxidative damage. High-quality supplements help boost your immunity, reduce inflammation and reverse nutritional deficiencies.  

Health benefits of antioxidants

1. Reduces inflammation
2. Slows down premature ageing 
3. Supports cardiovascular health
4. Supports brain health 
5. Reduces risk of chronic ailments
6. Helps in weight management 
7. Helps manage depression and anxiety  

References:

1. Rad et al. Lifestyle, Oxidative Stress, and Antioxidants: Back and Forth in the Pathophysiology of Chronic Diseases. Front. Physiol. 2020
2. Juszczyk et al. Chronic Stress and Oxidative Stress as Common Factors of the Pathogenesis of Depression and Alzheimer’s Disease: The Role of Antioxidants in Prevention and Treatment. Antioxidants 2021

The Benefits of Probiotics: Why Gut Health Matters NL-087

Have you ever noticed how poor gut health impacts your mood or worsens your stress? Does it also make you feel more tired and sluggish than usual? Do you experience joint pain and headaches when your gut health is out of balance? An unhealthy gut not only causes digestive issues such as constipation, heartburn or bloating, it may also manifest as other symptoms such as inability to sleep well, fatigue, lethargy, joint pain, skin rashes and allergies, mood changes, sugar cravings and autoimmune conditions. 

A healthy gut plays a critical role in maintaining your overall well-being. Our gastrointestinal system not only controls digestion and helps absorbs nutrients, it also plays a role in immune defense and is directly related to your brain health and influences mood and behaviour. In fact, the gut has its own nervous system, called the enteric nervous system (ENS).  Comprising of more than 100 million nerve cells that line the gastrointestinal tract, the ENS regulates the gut and is also known as our “second brain”. 

Our gut is home to trillions of bacteria and other microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiome. This intricate network of microorganisms residing in our gut actively communicates with other body systems and performs many important functions. For example, it helps in the production of essential vitamins, helps process and absorb the nutrients, produces short-chain fatty acids that protect the gut and maintains the integrity of the gut barrier, regulates immune function and helps produce neurotransmitters that regulate mood, appetite, behavior and cognition.  

Probiotics and gut health 

This enormous community of microbes in the gut – a combination of good, bad and opportunistic bacteria – determines how healthy you are. Any imbalance within this community, also known as gut dysbiosis, can give rise to body-wide inflammation and various health conditions such as thyroid issues, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, obesity, inflammatory bowel disease, heart disease, dental cavities and more. 

How can you achieve a well-balanced and a diverse gut microbiome that has different species of micro-organisms? Drinking plenty of water, eating healthy with a focus on fresh foods, restricting processed and sugary foods, sleeping well and including fibre-rich foods can positively affect your gut health. You can also significantly improve digestion and gut health by managing your stress levels.  

Adding probiotics in your diet is another effective strategy to maintain your gut health. Probiotics are live, friendly microorganisms that help restore the balance of healthy bacteria and strengthen the microbial community in your gut. Fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, buttermilk, miso, natto, kimchi, kombucha and kvass naturally contain probiotics. You can also take high-quality probiotic supplements to maintain your gut health, boost immunity and reduce inflammation.  

Overall Health Benefits of Probiotics

1. Supports healthy immune system
2. Improves digestion and nutrient absorption
3. Reduces inflammation
4. Improves skin health
5. Prevents urinary tract infections
6. Reduces symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
7. Reduces symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression
8. May help in weight loss
9. May help reduce cholesterol levels
10. Improves skin health
11. Reduces joint pain and inflammation
12. Helps in diarrhoea and constipation 
13. Improves oral heath, reduces bad breath 
14. Improves energy levels  

References:

1. Amrita Vijay and Ana M. Valdes. Role of the gut microbiome in chronic diseases: a narrative review. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2022
2. QX Ng et al. Effect of Probiotic Supplementation on Gut Microbiota in Patients with Major Depressive Disorders: A Systematic Review. Nutrients. 
3. Yadong Zheng. Probiotics Supplementation Attenuates Inflammation and Oxidative Stress Induced by Chronic Sleep Restriction. Nutrients. 2023. 

Top 6 Essential Supplements for Boosting Immune Health NL-086

You need a strong, well-functioning immune system to fight against infections, heal the damage caused by pathogens and recover quickly from an infection, injury or disease. A wholesome, healthy diet of fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts, herbs and spices contain all the vitamins, minerals and bio-active compounds that keep your immunity in top order. Proper sleep, exercise and healthy stress management also boost immunity. 

Unfortunately, many people struggle to get all the essential vitamins and minerals from their diet. High quality supplements can help fill these nutritional gaps, as well as provide additional support to immune health when you need it. For example, stress, anxiety, age, smoking and lack of sleep make your immune system weak and less effective in handling disease-causing microorganisms. In addition, seasonal changes also challenge the functioning of our immune system, where supplements such as vitamin D and vitamin C can work wonders. Let's look at top 6 essential supplements that will help strengthen and rejuvenate a worn-out immune system.

1. Vitamin C: Vitamin C can affect how your immune system responds at a cellular level. With its ability to support the cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune system (for example, it increases the production and functions of various immune cells and antibodies), Vitamin C is easily one of the top vitamins to keep you immune system healthy and active. It can help reduce the severity of a cold and reduce the risk of many infections. In addition, vitamin C is a powerful anti-oxidant that creates a protective skin barrier against external threats (such as pathogens). 

2. Vitamin D: Vitamin D3 is an excellent supplement for your bones and heart health, but it also shines in various other areas, especially in boosting immune health.  Vitamin D keeps your immune system well-balanced as it boosts natural immunity and helps fight respiratory infections, and also regulates adaptive immunity and keeps your immune system from going into an over-reactive mode that can trigger allergies and auto-immune conditions.

3. Reishi mushroom: Reishi mushroom, also known as Ling Zhi is one of the best adaptogens for your immune and heart health. It is loaded with hundreds of bioactive compounds (such as Beta-glucans and ganoderic acids) that work in many ways to boost as well as regulate your immune system. Beta glucans in reishi help fight microbial infections, whereas ganoderic acids help in seasonal allergies, asthma and respiratory disorders.  Reishi is also a good source of immune-boosting minerals such as magnesium, zinc and selenium. As an adaptogen, it helps you manage stress that leads to inflammation and weakens immunity.

4. Magnesium: magnesio is an amazing mineral that supports many life-sustaining functions. No wonder that it also plays a very important role in keeping your immune system healthy. It reduces inflammation, helps manage stress and improves sleep. All of these factors, if not managed well, can suppress your immunity. In addition, it helps the body to absorb vitamin D3 (which boosts immunity), affects immune responses at the cellular level, and helps in proper functioning of enzymes involved in healthy immune system functioning. 
 
5. Turmeric: Turmeric is a well-known spice with amazing anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting qualities. It contains curcumin, a bio-active compound known to strengthen immunity with its incredible ability to reduce inflammation, destroy pathogens, remove toxins from the body and improve gut health. Turmeric also supports your joint and cardiovascular health.

6. CoQ10: CoQ10 is excellent for your heart health, but its role in rejuvenating your immune system should not be under-estimated. Although CoQ10 is found in every cell, it is present in especially high concentrations in organs that have extraordinarily high energy requirements such as heart, liver, kidneys, immune system and the brain. It is also a very powerful anti-oxidant and protects immune cells from the oxidative damage. CoQ10 levels decline as we age and impact energy production that can cause low immunity, premature ageing and fatigue.

References:

1. Johnson et al. Vitamin D: immune function, inflammation, infections and auto-immunity. Paediatrics and International Child Health. 2023.
2. Sunil J. Wimalawansa. Infections and Autoimmunity—The Immune System and Vitamin D: A Systematic Review. Nutrients 2023
3. Ahmad et al. Ganoderma lucidum: A potential source to surmount viral infections through β-glucans immunomodulatory and triterpenoids antiviral properties. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules. 2021 

How to manage recurring sinus infections NL-085 

People who struggle with recurring sinus infections know how difficult it is to live with symptoms that can impact the quality of life. Symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pressure and pain, constant cough, headache and fatigue can be disabling and make it difficult to sleep, be productive at work, eat well or interact with family and friends. 

Sinusitis is a condition where the lining of your sinuses (air-filled cavities around your nasal bones, eyes, forehead and cheeks) become inflamed. While a bacterial or viral infection is the most common trigger, a sinus infection can also be caused by exposure to environmental pollutants, fungi and allergens. One of the main functions of the sinuses is to produce mucus that keeps the inhaled air warm, moist and free of pathogens. Inflamed and swollen sinuses don't allow the mucus to drain effectively, causing mucus to build-up inside the nasal and sinus cavities. Trapped mucus creates a very conducive environment for germs to grow and thrive, and it also blocks the sinus passageways, causing facial pressure, jaw pain and heaviness in head, among other distressing symptoms. 

In most cases, a sinus infection resolves on its own in time with a good amount of rest and home remedies such as nasal irrigation and steam inhalation. But for people who experience chronic issues (when the symptoms lasts 8 weeks or longer) or recurring infections (when there are recurring episodes within a year with symptom-free intervals), it is very important to find out and address the underlying causes for prevention and effective management.

Why does your sinusitis keep coming back? There can be many reasons behind chronic or recurring sinusitis such as weak immunity, structural abnormalities in the sinuses (nasal polyps and deviated septum), previous sinus surgery, nose injury, chronic asthma and allergies. Getting an accurate diagnosis and understanding the underlying triggers are the key steps in managing your recurring sinus infections. 

There is nothing better than getting good rest as it helps the body heal and recover faster. Nasal irrigation using saline solutions help clear out excess mucus, and warm compresses using a warm washcloth or towel over the face can help relieve some of the pressure on your sinuses. Inhaling steam may also be helpful as it releases the mucus and opens the sinuses, which eases nasal irritation and congestion. If possible, use a humidifier to keep the surrounding air moist, as that can help reduce nasal irritation. If the underlying cause is an allergy, it is best to avoid exposure to indoor or outdoor allergens such as pollution, smoke, dander, mould or dust mites. Smoke is another important risk factor that makes you more likely to develop sinusitis. In fact, even secondhand smoke is detrimental to your sinus health and can exacerbate the symptoms.

Consume a healthy, well-balanced diet to improve immunity and consume anti-oxidants that help reduce inflammation. Garlic, ginger, leafy greens, tea, soups and hot broths are some of the best foods to consume if you are struggling with a sinus infection. It is best to avoid highly processed foods as they promote inflammation and worsen the symptoms. Herbs such as giloy are known to reduce symptoms of hay fever or allergic rhinitis that is caused by exposure to pollen, dust and mould. Turmeric is another anti-inflammatory herb that reduces pain and inflammation and is well-known known for its anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties.

If nothing helps and you find your symptoms getting worse, it is best to see your health care professional. Untreated sinusitis can cause the infection to spread to the surrounding areas such as the brain, eyes and even the lower respiratory tract. 

What are liposomes? And why are liposomal supplements better for you? NL-084

Taking supplements doesn't necessarily mean you are getting all the intended benefits. One of the biggest problems with ordinary or traditional oral supplements (in the form of standard powders, capsules and tablets) is that your body absorbs a very small amount of the ingested nutrients as most of it is invariably destroyed during the process of digestion, resulting in poor bio-availability and absorption. 

Traditional oral supplements also cause gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhoea, bloating and abdominal pain, when taken in large doses. In addition, most of the traditional supplements are highly vulnerable to degradation by light and temperature, affecting their efficacy and potency. 

The optimum absorption of nutrients is also compromised by other factors such as age, poor gut health, and history of gastrointestinal surgeries and use of certain medications. In addition, there are some natural compounds such as curcumin, resveratrol and glutathione that offer incredible health benefits, but are quickly broken-down and cleared from the body, resulting in poor absorption and low bio-availability of these supplements. 

That’s why it is extremely important to take the right form of supplement that improves absorption and helps the nutrients and bioactive compounds to reach the target cells without getting damaged, destroyed or degraded in the process. That brings us to liposomal technology that uses a very unique and effective delivery system that protects the nutrients from the elements and action of the digestive tract, and ensures optimum delivery of nutrients directly into the cells and tissues. So what exactly is a liposome and how do liposomal supplements work?

Liposomes are very small, spherical structures that are made up of phospholipids, a type of fat that our cell membranes are made up of. A phospholipid molecule has a very unique structure with both fat-loving and water-loving components, which makes liposomes compatible to safely carry both fat-soluble and water-soluble nutrients. These nano-sized vesicles form a shield around the encapsulated substances (vitamins and minerals) and protect this content from the damage and decomposition that takes place during the process of digestion. There are other advantages of choosing liposomal supplements. You can take high doses without getting the gastrointestinal side effects typically associated with traditional ones and without going through the pain and discomfort associated with IV injections. 

These nano-sized bubbles work as a very efficient system to transport and deliver encapsulated vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant compounds directly to the cells, glands and tissues, ensuring high bio-availability and rapid absorption. 

By improving the bio-availability of the nutrients and antioxidant substances, and enhancing the absorption of nutrients, liposomal supplements make a huge difference and offer better health outcomes compared with other forms of supplements. 

Reference:

Ko et al. Pharmacokinetic Analyses of Liposomal and Non-Liposomal Multivitamin/Mineral Formulations. Nutrients. 2023

Amazing health benefits of resveratrol NL-083

Resveratrol has received great attention as a natural substance for preventing and managing various chronic health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, obesity and arthritis. So, what exactly is resveratrol? It is a natural compound produced by certain plants to protect them from pathogens and environmental stress. It is found in foods such as peanuts, berries, green tea, pistachios, grapes, Japanese Knotweed and cocoa. Resveratrol works as a powerful antioxidant with a long list of benefits for your heart, brain and metabolic health.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties: Resveratrol neutralises free radicals (triggered by stress, sun exposure, alcohol, smoking, drugs and toxins), that damages the fragile structure and function of your cells. This is how resveratrol supports healthy tissue function and reduces oxidative damage and inflammation in your blood vessels, heart and brain. Additionally, it also promotes the production of other powerful antioxidants within the body, namely glutathione, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase. This further establishes resveratrol as a formidable antioxidant compound that defends your body from the cellular damage and destruction caused by free radicals. 

Anti-ageing properties: Oxidative damage to DNA and mitochondria is linked to premature ageing. As an antioxidant compound (that also increases the amount of other critical antioxidant enzymes in the body), resveratrol limits oxidative damage in the cells and its internal structures such as proteins, fats, DNA and mitochondria, thereby reducing the risk of premature ageing. There is another interesting mechanism through which resveratrol works as a natural anti-ageing substance. It activates sirtuins, a group of enzymes known for their role in improving your overall health and longevity. Sirtuins regulate many functions that are intricately involved in the process of ageing such as metabolism, inflammation, DNA repair and cellular response to stress. These enzymes also play a very critical role in maintaining mitochondrial health and function. 

Overall Health Benefits of Resveratrol

1. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory 
2. Anti-ageing
3. Boosts energy levels 
4. Supports cardiovascular health
5. Improves brain function 
6. Keeps skin looking young and healthy
7. Reduces blood sugar levels 
8. Improves insulin sensitivity
9. Improves bone health, eases joint pain
10. Boosts immunity

Can you get enough resveratrol from your diet?

While it is produced naturally by some plants and is found in grapes, Japanese Knotweed, chocolate, pistachios, berries and peanuts, it is not possible to get substantial amount of resveratrol from food sources alone. Did you know red wine contains around 13 mg resveratrol per liter.  You would need to drink about 40 litres of wine daily to get 500 mg of resveratrol per day.  

In addition, its poor bio-availability remains a major challenge. It is quickly metabolised in the intestines and the liver, rapidly eliminated from the body, is poorly soluble in water and degrades easily. It is, therefore, important to choose the right formulation to translate its incredible health benefits and get the most out of resveratrol supplements. If you are looking at formulations that can overcome bioavailability concerns, liposomal resveratrol is the way to go. Liposomal technology increases its absorption, thereby making it more available to the cells.

References:

1. Zhang et al. Resveratrol (RV): A pharmacological review and call for further research. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy. 2021.
2. Ugoeze et al. Phytopharmaceutical Benefits of Resveratrol in the Management of Diseases and Health Maintenance: A Review. Biomedical Sciences. 2023
3. Salla et al. Enhancing the Bioavailability of Resveratrol: Combine It, Derivatize It, or Encapsulate It? Pharmaceutics. 2024

Do you want to protect against gum disease? NL-082

Many dentists recommend CoQ10 supplements to treat and reduce the severity of gum disease, also called periodontal disease. It is typically caused by poor oral hygiene that allows bacteria to form a sticky, colourless film, called plaque, on the teeth. Over a period of time, this biofilm of plaque hardens and results in the excessive build-up of tartar, which acts as a reservoir of many kinds of bacteria that infect the gum and promote inflammation in the surrounding tissues. Smoking, diabetes, family history, hormonal changes and chronic stress also increase the risk of developing gum disease. 

The initial symptoms of periodontitis include red, swollen and tender gums that may bleed easily when you brush. This stage is called gingivitis and is the mildest form of periodontitis. Over a period of time, the excessive build-up of plaque and bacteria causes severe inflammation that can do a lot of damage to the gum tissue and the surrounding bone structures, leading to bad breath, sensitive teeth, gums that begin to pull away from the teeth and tooth loss if left untreated. When not treated, persistent inflammation in the gum also increases the risk of other chronic health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, stroke and diabetes. 

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) benefits in gum disease

CoQ10 is a vitamin-like molecule produced naturally in the body. Aptly called the "spark-plug", it plays an indispensable part in the bio-chemical reactions that produce energy in the body. It also works as a powerful antioxidant that protects cells and tissues from the oxidative damage caused by free radicals. With these two overarching functions in the body, CoQ10 delivers incredible benefits for your immunity, heart and overall health. Studies show that taking CoQ10 supplements help in managing diabetes, cardiovascular disease, gum disease, migraine, infertility and fibromyalgia. 

What are the benefits of taking a high quality COQ10 supplement in gum disease?

CoQ10 is a powerful anti-oxidant that reduces inflammation in the gum and the surrounding tissues. The pathogens in the bio-film release toxic by-products that triggers the overproduction of the free radicals. This causes inflammation, swelling, pain and breakdown of collagen and tissues in the periodontal area.  These pathogens also activate the immune system to launch a response, that adds to the inflammation and gum damage. The data from clinical studies show that people suffering from gum disease have low levels of CoQ10 in their gums, and CoQ10 supplements improve the concentration of CoQ10 in the diseased gum and reduces advanced inflammation in the affected area.

CoQ10 also boosts immunity and supports your body's ability to fight and destroy harmful bacteria, and helps the gum tissue to heal and repair faster due to its crucial role in cellular energy production.  Clinical trials suggest that CoQ10 supplementation can significantly reduce many symptoms of periodontal disease such as clinical attachment loss and severity of gingival inflammation. 

References:

1. Golafrouz et al. Impact of dietary supplementation with coenzyme Q10 on periodontitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PharmaNutrition. 2023. 
2. Raut et al. Subgingivally delivered coenzyme Q10 in the treatment of chronic periodontitis among smokers: A randomized, controlled clinical study. J Oral Biol Craniofac Res. 2019.