Berberine

February is Heart Month. As you go about your day, you probably don’t think much about the organ that makes it all possible: your heart. It's your hardest working muscle and it pumps for you all day long, but still, there are a lot of habits in western society that put your heart health at risk. So take care of your heart. Show it some TLC. Small changes can make a difference for your overall heart health. February was chosen by the Heart and Stroke Foundation back in 1956 to be Heart Month in order "to put heart health on the public agenda, to empower researchers to turn the tide on heart disease, and to educate Canadians about their hearts."^2 In recognition of Heart and Stroke's efforts to raise awareness and spread the knowledge of heart health, here are some tips to help you maintain your heart health: Incorporate healthy fats into your diet It is difficult to drastically change your eating habits, but making small changes to gradually improve your heart health could make a difference. Start eating more healthy fats, these include essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6) from foods like nuts and seeds or fish. You can also take an Omega 3 supplement, like Krill oil. Practice stress management Meditation and exercise can help combat stress. Try light stretching exercises like yoga, prayer, deep breathing, or art therapy. Check your family history Go for regular checkups. Monitor your blood pressure so that your checkups go smoothly. Keep your BP below 120.80 mm HG. Organika's Cholesterol Caps can help by reducing the reducing oxidative damage to blood cells, blood vessels and other circulatory organs. Get a good night’s sleep Aim to get 6-8 hours of sleep per night. Good sleep habits can play an important role in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.^3 Whether you move more, eat better, or sleep more, making just one small change at a time could help your heart maintain its strength and longevity over time. Once you get going, you'll find it pays off. Find out more about these other heart health related products: Coenzyme Q10 Red Yeast Rice Plus References 1, 2 http://heartmonth.heartandstroke.ca/site/c.jhLOKYPDLqF/b.8330671/k.B026/Learn_more_about_Heart_Month.htm 3 http://www.heartandstroke.on.ca/site/c.pvI3IeNWJwE/b.5482901/k.C0B7/Insomnia_could_up_blood_pressure_Foundation_research_finds.htm

The blue-green superfood has so many benefits for your skin and health. In 1974, the World Health Organization declared a type of algae as the “best food for the future” to combat malnutrition. Can you guess what it is? Spirulina. Spirulina is a powerhouse that has a wealth of health benefits - it supports your body’s natural detoxification pathways, aids in red blood cell production, is packed with antioxidants with anti-inflammatory benefits, and is an excellent source of iron and protein. Why I use spirulina Personally, I’m a big fan. You’ll find spirulina in my list of go-to smoothie ingredients along with nutrient-packed foods. Why? Packed with iron and protein Spirulina is highly concentrated in bioavailable iron and is one of the densest plant-based proteins in the world that contain all nine essential amino acids. One tablespoon (2g) of spirulina contains 4g of protein and 2mg of iron. Per gram, that is quite packed. This is a personal priority, since my monthly menstrual cycle, vigorous exercise and plant-centric diet put me at a higher risk for iron and protein deficiency. Spirulina is a convenient and tasty way to aid in red blood cell production and support muscle repair post-exercise. And when I recommend spirulina on top of a balanced diet to my clients, I can rest assured they’re receiving excellent nutritional benefits with just one small tweak. So much nutritional value for such a small yet mighty addition. Spirulina packs in antioxidants with anti-inflammatory benefits Phycocyanin is the main active compound in spirulina. Fun fact - it gives spirulina its blue green colour. Beyond that, it’s an incredibly potent antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. Phycocyanin reduces oxidative stress in your cells, by blocking out molecules that promote inflammation. Spirulina also has high amounts of naturally occurring chlorophyll Chlorophyll can help support the body’s natural detoxification pathways, namely through the liver. In fact, studies have linked chlorophyll to reduced incidence of liver cancer, and spirulina to improvements in fatty liver disease. Spirulina helps build a strong immunity Think of our immune system as an orchestra - it’s a complex network of systems, with each organ playing a specific role. They come together to produce a beautiful, strong symphony - the result is a strong body resistant to viruses and bacteria. Protein, iron, and antioxidants - these three nutrients in spirulina are powerhouses that work together to maintain a strong immunity. Furthermore, studies have found that the phycocyanins in spirulina help boost production of white blood cells and antibodies that help to fight viruses in your body. Spirulina helps reduce risk for chronic disease For those suffering from environmental allergies - good news: spirulina is shown in clinical studies to reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis. For heart health, clinical studies have shown that 1-8g of spirulina daily can help reduce blood pressure. Another review found spirulina supplementation may help reduce fasting blood sugar levels in people with Type 2 diabetes. How to use spirulina You can take spirulina in tablet or powder form - whichever you prefer. If you like powder, Organika has a new super tasty option for you - they have taken the #1 Spirulina brand and fortified it with the power of B12, an essential vitamin needed for healthy blood cells and metabolism. Taste fruity tropical flavours while your cells rejuvenate and your whole health improves. Here’s some ways you can enjoy it: Add it to smoothies, mix into oatmeal, congee or porridge Prefer a hot beverage? Add it to your lattes or mix into teas. Salad dressings and green pasta sauces Mix it into homemade energy balls Enjoy! References: Cingi C, Conk-Dalay M, Cakli H, Bal C. The effects of spirulina on allergic rhinitis. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2008 Oct;265(10):1219-23. doi: 10.1007/s00405-008-0642-8. Epub 2008 Mar 15. PMID: 18343939. Ferreira-Hermosillo A, Torres-Duran PV, Juarez-Oropeza MA. Hepatoprotective effects of Spirulina maxima in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a case series. J Med Case Rep. 2010 Apr 7;4:103. doi: 10.1186/1752-1947-4-103. PMID: 20370930; PMCID: PMC2861069. Finamore A, Palmery M, Bensehaila S, Peluso I. Antioxidant, Immunomodulating, and Microbial-Modulating Activities of the Sustainable and Ecofriendly Spirulina. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2017;2017:3247528. doi: 10.1155/2017/3247528. Epub 2017 Jan 15. PMID: 28182098; PMCID: PMC5274660. Fooddata Central Search Results. FoodData Central. (n.d.). https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/170495/nutrients García JL, de Vicente M, Galán B. Microalgae, old sustainable food and fashion nutraceuticals. Microb Biotechnol. 2017 Sep;10(5):1017-1024. doi: 10.1111/1751-7915.12800. Epub 2017 Aug 15. PMID: 28809450; PMCID: PMC5609256. Grover P, Bhatnagar A, Kumari N, Narayan Bhatt A, Kumar Nishad D, Purkayastha J. C-Phycocyanin-a novel protein from Spirulina platensis- In vivo toxicity, antioxidant and immunomodulatory studies. Saudi J Biol Sci. 2021 Mar;28(3):1853-1859. doi: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2020.12.037. Epub 2020 Dec 30. PMID: 33732072; PMCID: PMC7938138. Hatami E, Ghalishourani SS, Najafgholizadeh A, Pourmasoumi M, Hadi A, Clark CCT, Assaroudi M, Salehi-Sahlabadi A, Joukar F, Mansour-Ghanaei F. The effect of spirulina on type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Diabetes Metab Disord. 2021 Mar 2;20(1):883-892. doi: 10.1007/s40200-021-00760-z. PMID: 34178867; PMCID: PMC8212345. Machowiec P, Ręka G, Maksymowicz M, Piecewicz-Szczęsna H, Smoleń A. Effect of Spirulina Supplementation on Systolic and Diastolic Blood Pressure: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrients. 2021 Aug 31;13(9):3054. doi: 10.3390/nu13093054. PMID: 34578932; PMCID: PMC8468496. Mazokopakis EE, Papadomanolaki MG, Fousteris AA, Kotsiris DA, Lampadakis IM, Ganotakis ES. The hepatoprotective and hypolipidemic effects of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) supplementation in a Cretan population with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a prospective pilot study. Ann Gastroenterol. 2014;27(4):387-394. PMID: 25331487; PMCID: PMC4188938. Naeini F, Zarezadeh M, Mohiti S, Tutunchi H, Ebrahimi Mamaghani M, Ostadrahimi A. Spirulina supplementation as an adjuvant therapy in enhancement of antioxidant capacity: A systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled clinical trials. Int J Clin Pract. 2021 Oct;75(10):e14618. doi: 10.1111/ijcp.14618. Epub 2021 Aug 4. PMID: 34235823. Nourollahian M, Rasoulian B, Gafari A, Anoushiravani M, Jabari F, Bakhshaee M. Clinical comparison of the efficacy of spirulina platensis and cetirizine for treatment of allergic rhinitis. Acta Otorhinolaryngol Ital. 2020 Jun;40(3):224-229. doi: 10.14639/0392-100X-N0139. PMID: 32773785; PMCID: PMC7416373. Sayin I, Cingi C, Oghan F, Baykal B, Ulusoy S. Complementary therapies in allergic rhinitis. ISRN Allergy. 2013 Nov 13;2013:938751. doi: 10.1155/2013/938751. PMID: 24324897; PMCID: PMC3845706.

Do collagen supplements support weight management or other fitness goals? Collagen has exploded on the health scene for good reason. It helps boost the elasticity and integrity of our skin, supports our joints and muscles, and helps strengthen our gut lining. But what about weight loss? Can a collagen supplement help support weight loss goals, and if so, how? Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, accounting for about 30% of the body’s total protein. It is present in all of our tissues and organs, and is essential for many physiological processes. Let’s break down how collagen can support weight loss ... Source of Amino Acids As a source of protein and amino acids, collagen may drive weight loss because it helps with ‘satiety’, our feeling of fullness. When we feel full, with steady blood sugar levels, we tend to eat less and crave less sugar. Although not a complete protein, there is associated muscle mass support and building that is supported when coupled with resistance training. The more muscle we have, the more calories we burn at rest. Organika’s Essential Aminos Enhanced Collagen Protein is a great addition to your routine especially if weight loss is part of your goals, because with all 9 essential amino acids; this collagen powder IS a complete protein. Joint Support Collagen’s ability to strengthen and support our joints, is another way it may aid in weight loss. People living with joint pain, especially Osteoarthritis, know how limiting it can be on their ability to exercise. As collagen is essential for healthy connective tissue in joints, tendons and ligaments, supplementing may help reduce pain, allowing for increased physical activity. Try Enhanced Collagen Bone & Joint for added supplements and support to support aching joints, muscles and further build bone density. Gut Health Maintaining a strong gut lining is important for how our body digests, absorbs and utilizes nutrients from our food. Collagen plays a role in building healthy connective tissue throughout the digestive tract. It also helps ensure a good balance of bacteria. By supporting the gut, collagen helps aid in digestion, immune function and weight loss. For added gut health benefits, try Full Spectrum Collagen 1, 2, 3, 5, 10 – a multi-sourced collagen that also includes chicken broth for added protein and gut health benefits. Beyond Weight Loss Collagen may extend beyond weight loss, in its capacity to help deal with the unwanted side effects of weight loss like loose skin. By strengthening the dermis layer of the skin, collagen may help reduce the appearance of cellulite and sagging loose skin. Studies have shown that supplementing with hydrolyzed collagen peptides help to tighten the skin, improving its integrity and texture. Looking for fat burning? Let’s take it one step further if weight loss and fat burning are your goal. While collagen helps in the ways above, you can add other nutrients that assist in weight loss to any collagen. Organika has done the work for you with Metaboost Fat Metabolizing Complex. This collagen powder offers the same Enhanced Collagen protein from hydrolyzed grass-fed bovine collagen peptides... PLUS has other natural ingredients such as L carnitine and Garcinia to help boost your metabolism. This powder helps to keep you feeling fuller long, burn fat, and support weight management. As you can see, the benefits of collagen are wide ranging. Along with all the reasons we love collagen to support our healthy lifestyle, we can now add weight loss to that list.