Monthly Archives: September 2019

Dr. Hauschka – Featured Brand

DrHauschkaSusan Brown Health and Wellness Editor

Did you know that Professional Supplement Center offers natural beauty and skin care solutions from Dr. Hauschka? Born of a passion to provide a line of nature inspired products that take a holistic approach to support skin health as a means of achieving beautiful skin, for more than 50 years Dr. Hauschka’s founding mission has remained–to meet the strongest criteria available for natural and organic ingredients that support the long-term health of the skin, the planet and all living creatures. These 100% natural skin care products, based on the relationship of skin to overall health, are designed with the purest and highest quality plant and mineral ingredients, carefully chosen for efficacy and synergistic effects. All products are certified by NATRUE, a non-profit, international association with the strongest criteria for natural and organic ingredients in personal care products, as verified by an independent certifier.

NATRUE standards include environmentally responsible harvesting, non-toxic processing of raw materials, socially responsible business practices, and the exclusion of petroleum-based synthetics and GMO ingredients. Plant ingredient origins are extensively researched to ensure ecologically and ethically sound sourcing. All nature-derived raw materials are harvested at their peak for maximum benefits and are minimally processed to maintain the vibrancy of the botanicals. Dr. Hauschka’s personal care formulations are vegan, certified organic, and are gluten, preservative, synthetic ingredient, and cruelty free.

To see more personal care products from Dr. Hauschka, please visit professionalsupplementcenter.com

Hydrating MaskHydrating Mask: This hydrating cream mask offers intensive care to nurture, nourish and protect dry, sensitive and mature skin. Specific ingredients replenish, soothe and hydrate, while supporting natural oil production. Use once or twice weekly for skin that looks and feels fresh, supple and smooth. Certified Natural and dermatologically tested for sensitive skin. Free of synthetic fragrances, dyes and preservatives, mineral oil, silicones and polyethylene glycols (PEGs).

Hydrating Hand CreamHydrating Hand Cream: This fast-absorbing hydrating hand cream soothes, nourishes and protects hands from cold, harsh or dry conditions. Featuring a mild fresh scent, this moisturizing cream nurtures and supports the skin’s natural renewal processes without leaving a greasy residue. Certified Natural and dermatologically tested for sensitive skin. Free of synthetic fragrances, dyes and preservatives, mineral oil, silicones and polyethylene glycols (PEGs).

Lip BalmLip Balm: A personal favorite, this lip balm offers intensive soothing and nourishing care to nurture and protect lips. Ingredients, such as jojoba, apricot kernel oils, calendula, beeswax, cocoa butter and limonene, moisturize, soften, renew, fortify and protect lips, while smoothing fine lines and wrinkles and providing a translucent shine. Certified Natural and dermatologically tested for sensitive skin. Free of synthetic fragrances, dyes and preservatives, mineral oil, silicones and polyethylene glycols (PEGs).

Intensive Treatment...Intensive Treatment for Menopausal Skin: Intensive Treatments are formulated for skin that has lost its natural balance and requires focused care. Specific ingredients diminish the appearance of dullness, redness and blotchiness and support the skin’s natural renewal processes. For best results, use for a minimum of 28 days. Certified Natural and dermatologically tested for sensitive skin. Free of synthetic fragrances, dyes and preservatives, mineral oil, silicones and polyethylene glycols (PEGs).

Improved Diet = Improved Health

ImprovedDietJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

For almost a century federal dietary guidance was designed for avoidance of nutrient deficiency diseases, such as scurvy and rickets. Other than obesity, minimal attention was given to reducing the risk of degenerative chronic conditions. In the past two decades there have been substantial advances in understanding the relationship between diet and health, as well as broad agreement that overall dietary modifications improve the chance of a healthier life and reduce the prevalence of diet-related chronic disease. Family history, environmental concerns, healthcare access and other health-promoting lifestyle factors, such as regular exercise and healthy sleep, are all determinants of health and wellbeing. While there is clear evidence that the daily diet directly affects both short and long term health, research shows American dietary patterns are very slow to improve.

Dietary advice has improved, but are we listening?

It’s been almost 20 years since nutrition experts, that historically promoted high-carb/low fat diets, disavowed their disastrous advice to shun all dietary fats and instead urged Americans to focus on whole grains, nuts and healthful fats. A study published recently in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) reported some improvements in the Standard American Diet. A cross-sectional analysis among 44,000 adults found that the quality of the average American’s diet improved by two percentage points between 1999 and 2016. Researchers found decreased intake of low-quality carbohydrates and added sugars, as well as increased intake of  high-quality carbohydrates, including whole grains, plant proteins and nuts. Yet, after two decades of updated nutrition advice the majority of overall diet composition remains derived from nutrient deficient refined carbs and unhealthy fats.

Some of us are actively pursuing a healthier lifestyle.

To be sure, Americans have many different approaches to eating. While some focus on taste and nutrition, other focus on convenience. Those who focus on healthy eating say they are relatively satisfied with their diets. A majority of people who focus on convenience say they should probably eat healthier most days. When asked to confront their own eating habits, most Americans admit to nutritional shortcomings. Yet, 72 percent of adults acknowledge that healthy eating habits and exercise are the most important factors for healthy lifespan improvement. As well, the majority know that both the quality and the quantity of food consumption is a public health concern. While this public awareness shows that millions of Americans are moving in the right direction, considerable challenges lie ahead to improve the majority of American’s diet and health.

Why nutrition matters:

The typical American diet is too high in calories, unhealthy fat, sodium and added sugars, and too low in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, calcium, and fiber. A low nutrient, low fiber, high sugar diet contributes to heart disease, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, stroke, osteoporosis and many types of cancer. As well, unhealthy eating is the leading cause of mortality and disabilities stemming from bone fractures, heart attacks, strokes and lower-limb amputations. Improving the diet promotes healthy weight maintenance, reduces cancer risk, prevents strokes and supports cognitive function, cardiovascular health, strong bones and teeth, better mood, improved memory, overall wellbeing and healthier longevity.

If you’re really not sure what to eat, go for vegetables. Nine out of ten Americans fail to meet the five a day serving requirement. Full of fiber, antioxidants and phytonutrients, vegetables help protect the heart, the eyes and the brain, lower the risk of diabetes and some cancers, help maintain healthy blood pressure, protect blood vessel walls and support bone health. To support whole body heath, the American Heart Association recommends approximately 2100 calories of nutritious whole foods each day.

  • 5 daily servings of vegetables (one serving equals 1 cup raw leafy greens or ½ cup cooked or raw vegetables)
  • 4 daily servings of fruit (one serving equals one medium sized piece of fruit or ½ cup cut up fruit)
  • 6 daily servings of whole grains (one serving equals 1 slice of bread, 1 cup of cereal or ½ cup cooked rice)
  • 3 daily servings of dairy (one serving equals 1 cup milk or yogurt or 1.5 oz. of cheese)
  • 3 daily servings of healthy fats and oils (one serving equals 1 tablespoon)
  • 8-9 weekly servings of poultry, meat and eggs (one serving equals 3 ounces of meat or one egg)
  • 2-3 weekly servings of seafood (one serving equals 3 ounces)
  • 5 weekly servings of nuts, seeds, beans and legumes (one serving equals ½ ounce of nuts, ¼ cup of beans or 1 tablespoon nut butter)

Professional Supplement Center offers these and other high quality supplements in support of healthy nutrition:

Spectrum VibranceSpectrum Vibrance by Vibrant Health®: This concentrated blend of powdered, whole food plant nutrients provides a broad range of nutrient-rich red, yellow, blue and green fruits and vegetables, as well as bioactive food substances and antioxidant-rich botanical extracts. One serving is equivalent to 4.5 daily servings of fruits and vegetables. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

Delicious Greens...Delicious Greens 8000 Original Flavor by Greens World Inc.: This powdered concentrate blends certified organic vegetables and fruits with enzymes, probiotics, natural fibers, vitamins, minerals and more to deliver the antioxidant power of 8000 ORAC units. Naturally flavored with orange and spearmint. No added sugar. Free of wheat, MSG and preservatives. Vegetarian formulation. Additional flavors available: Berry, Chocolate, Mocha Café, Fruit Punch and Strawberry Kiwi.

Spectra Purples™Spectra Purples™ by DaVinci Laboratories of Vermont: This proprietary powdered supplement blends 19 whole fruits, vegetables and extracts containing health promoting purple phytonutrients in support of healthy aging and cognitive, cellular, immune and cardiovascular health and function. Also available: Spectra Greens™, Spectra Oranges™ and Spectra Reds™.

PaleoRedsPaleo Reds® by Designs for Health®: In support of healthy aging, this proprietary whole food powder combines a variety of high quality colorful fruits and vegetables known for their phytonutrient and antioxidant compounds. Contains over 70% organic ingredients. Gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation. Also available: PaleoGreens® (unflavored) and Lemon/Lime.

References:
Trends in Dietary Carbohydrate, Protein, and Fat Intake and Diet Quality Among US Adults 1999-2016. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/2751719
Improving America’s Diet and Health: From Recommendations to Action. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK235259/
New Survey Shows Changes in American Diet Trends. https://www.nutritioncoalition.us/news/2018/6/20/new-survey-shows-changes-in-american-diet-trends
What’s on your table? How America’s diet has changed over the decades. https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2016/12/13/whats-on-your-table-how-americas-diet-has-changed-over-the-decades/
Our Food Is Killing Too Many of Us. https://www.nytimes.com/2019/08/26/opinion/food-nutrition-health-care.html
Public views about American’s eating habits. https://www.pewresearch.org/science/2016/12/01/public-views-about-americans-eating-habits/
Suggested Servings from Each Food Group. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/suggested-servings-from-each-food-group

Living Holistically

LivingHolisticallyJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Holistic health and wellness encompasses the whole person, emphasizing the connection of mind, body and spirit. In existence since ancient times, holistic healing traditions are based on laws of nature and the concept that an individual as a whole is made up of interdependent parts that interact with physical, mental, emotional and spiritual elements. The goal of a holistic lifestyle is to achieve optimal balance and proper function of all bodily systems to attain total health and wellbeing. Within this ancient approach each person accepts responsibility for their own health by making everyday choices to prevent illness, as well as support the highest levels of vitality and wellness.

Holism is the philosophy of understanding people by addressing factors that affect individuals in all situations, supporting a broader approach to wellness and empowering each individual to take on a larger role in self-care, health management and disease prevention. While holistic medicine may also incorporate appropriate elements of mainstream disease care, such as pharmaceutical or surgical interventions, one key focus of holistic care is the maintenance of healthy function through balanced diet, exercise, behavior modifications, environmental measures and counseling, as well as noninvasive measures that enhance the body’s ability to heal itself.

The American Holistic Health Association (AHHA) describes holistic health as “the conscious pursuit of the highest qualities of physical, environmental and emotional health, as well as mental stimulation, spiritual nourishment and the social aspects of the human experience.” Modern medicine often focuses on treating symptoms of an illness or condition, not necessarily the condition itself. Holistic medicine places the focus on finding the underlying condition or root cause of subsequent ill health and encourages individuals to tap into their own power to bring about self-healing. Considered an alternative or ayurvedic health practice, holistic medicine incorporates many medical modalities shown in studies to be safe and effective.

Holistic medicine seeks to expand the boundaries of health care assessments to include an equal emphasis on the physical, mental and spiritual health aspects of complete wellness. Like a well-oiled machine, when all body systems work synergistically the body operates in homeostasis. However, if one mechanism goes awry, the body cannot function in harmony. For example, poor gut health affects metabolism, digestion, hormone production and absorption of nutrients, which in turn can negatively affect energy levels, weight maintenance and disease risk.

Just as holistic health care incorporates conventional medicine, integrative medical physicians accept and often recommend holistic modalities as an adjunct to mainstream treatments:

  • Alternative or traditional medical systems, such as Traditional Chinese Medicine, which aims to restore the body’s balance and harmony; Ayurveda, one of the world’s oldest forms of whole body healing systems; homeopathy, a medical practice that embraces a
  • holistic, natural approach to treatment based on the doctrine that like cures like; and naturopathy, which emphasizes prevention and utilizes natural remedies, such as botanicals, massage, acupuncture, exercise and nutritional counseling to encourage inherent self-healing processes for optimal health.
  • Mind/body interventions, such as yoga, guided meditation or support groups, which aim to boost the mind’s ability to enhance physical health. Try an outdoor yoga session to encourage bringing more of nature’s healing vibes into your practice.
  • Biological based therapies that stem from plants and other biological materials, such as aromatherapy, herbal medicine and dietary supplements.
  • Massage therapy, manual manipulation of soft body tissues to enhance health and wellbeing; acupuncture, a complementary medical practice that entails stimulating certain body points to alleviate pain or treat other conditions; and chiropractic adjustments, which focus on manipulative treatment of joint and spine misalignments.
  • Energy therapies, such as reiki and tai chi, that manipulate or move energy fields within and around the body to improve energy flow, health and wellbeing.
  • An emphasis that individuals form a healthcare team when dealing with serious illness that includes at least one licensed medical practitioner along with support from other professionals, such as physical therapists, chiropractors, psychologists or nurses.

In addition to a healthy lifestyle, these steps may aid the quest to attain full body wellness:

  • Practice self-care and mindfulness to reduce stress, anxiety or frustrations. Try a few minutes of deep breathing exercises upon rising and begin your day with a sense of calmness. Stating short positive affirmations throughout the day can help to push away negative thoughts and encourage peace and harmony.
  • If you’re consumed or bothered by negative thoughts, try writing them down. Journaling can help lighten the load by ridding the mind of thoughts and feelings that don’t serve you well. Studies show that negative brain activity can lead to a weakened immune system, making one more prone to illness.
  • Declutter your home and workspace, removing objects that bring up negative emotions or don’t bring joy or a sense of calm. Eliminating body care and cleaning products that contain toxic chemicals also helps to clean up your environment.
  • Surround yourself with positive supportive family, friends and others that inspire, encourage and care for you. It’s okay to distance yourself from toxic persons who may be detrimental to your mental and cognitive health.
  • Quality sleep is necessary for overall health. Turn off the TV, dim the lights and turn on relaxing music in the last few hours before bed to aid the brain and body in winding down from the day’s activities.
  • In addition to a proper diet, consider appropriate supplementation. Even those who eat generally healthy diets can benefit from nutritional improvements to ensure better than adequate nutrition and strengthen immunity in support of holistic health and wellness.

Professional Supplement Center offers these and other high quality supplements in support of holistic wellness:

Rhodiola Rosea...Rhodiola Rosea Extract Full Spectrum™ by Planetary Herbals: This revered adaptogen provides a broad spectrum of standardized rhodiola constituents. Highly valued for increased energy, endurance, strength and mental stamina, rhodiola is known to help the body adapt to environmental, physiological and psychological stress.

HPA AdaptHPA Adapt by Integrative Therapeutics®: This powerful bend of adaptogenic herbs encourages  healthy stress hormone balance via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis to aid the body’s response to mental and physical stressors. Non-stimulant formula includes ashwagandha, rhodiola rosea, eleuthero, holy basil and maca. Free of sugar, salt, yeast, wheat, gluten, soy, dairy, and artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. Vegan formulation.

AdaptopathAdaptopath by Energetix®: This quality, homeopathic liquid remedy is formulated for enhanced stress adaptation, nutrient absorption and oxygen utilization. Useful for symptoms of lethargy, muscle weakness and sluggish digestion. Gluten free formulation.

 

Adaptogen-R3™Adaptogen-R3™ by Premier Research Labs: This adaptogenic and stress support formula features premier quality nutrients to revitalize the body, moderate occasional mental and physical stress and provide support for cardiovascular and metabolic health. Features Rhodiola Pro Blend™, SynerPro Support Blend™, organic Indonesian cinnamon and CordyPro Blend™. No added excipients. Vegan formulation.

Turmeric Holistic...Turmeric Holistic Powder by Rebel™ Herbs: Utilized in Ayurveda for centuries to support whole body health, this proprietary full spectrum holistic extract provides pure, concentrated curcumin turmerones processed to ensure optimal stability and a complete compound profile. Certified Organic.

References:
An Overview of Holistic Health: https://www.verywellhealth.com/holistic-health-4014763
Holistic Health: https://ahha.org/selfhelp-articles/holistic-health/
Why Negative People Are Literally Killing You (and How to Protect Your Positivity.) https://medium.com/the-mission/why-negative-people-are-literally-killing-you-and-how-to-obliterate-pessimism-from-your-life-eb85fadced87