fusionhealth-blog

[fusionhealth-blog]

How to avoid sick days in winter

Stock up on immune boosting supplements There are several nutrients essential for normal function of the immune system and many people don’t get enough of them through their diets. Both Zinc and Vitamin C are involved in the production and activity of the immune cells. Together, these nutrients support immune health, and may aid the management of upper respiratory tract infections such as colds, relieving their symptoms, reducing their severity and enabling faster recovery time. Naturally acidic, high doses of vitamin C supplementation may cause stomach upset so look for a supplement that contains buffered forms of vitamin C such as calcium ascorbate and sodium ascorbate. More than 75% of the immune cells reside in the gut, so make sure you are supporting your gut microbiota (beneficial bacteria) with a healthy diet and choose a high-quality probiotic supplement, which may help support healthy immune function and reduce the risk of winter-ills. When you are choosing a probiotic make sure the product contains scientifically researched strains of friendly bacteria. Herbal medicine can be a powerful way to help boost your immunity.In traditional Western medicine Elderflower has been used for mild upper respiratory infections and the management of mild fever. Elderflower makes a delicious tea or you can take it in a supplement form. In traditional Chinese Medicine a combination of immune strengthening herbs such as Astragalus, Siberian Ginseng and Reishi13have been used to help support immune defences and enhance resistance to minor infections.

 Recharge Getting 7-9hours of good quality sleep may help boost your immune function and reduce your chances of getting sick this winter. If you don’t get enough sleep, try to take frequent breaks during the day, and if possible spend some time in the sun. We’re more likely to be low in vitamin D during winter and this vitamin has been shown to play a vital role in immunity and protection against colds and flu. You can also consider taking a herbal supplement with a combination of Ginsengs, known as adaptogens, which may boost energy and help the body to adapt to various stressors.

Manage Stress Long term stress can reduce the function of the immune system; that’s why you are more likely to get sick when you are under a lot of stress.  Many studies show that stress management techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, spending time in nature, having fun and regular exercise are very effective tools for boosting your body’s resistance to various stressors. During stressful times, consider taking a combination of herbs such as Holy Basil (sometimes referred to as Sacred Basil or Tulsi), Withania and Magnolia, which in the traditional Chinese medicine, have been used to help manage stress symptoms.Herbs to the rescue At the first signs of sore throat, fever, runny nose or mucous congestion, be proactive and chose a formula with traditional Western and Chinese herbs such as Echinacea, Andrographis, Honeysuckle flower and Olive Leaf, used to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms. Speak to your healthcare professional before taking any herbal products or supplements. Always read the label and use only as directed. Reference: Fusion Health - https://www.fusionhealth.com.au 

Van Straten M1, Josling P. Preventing the common cold with a vitamin C supplement: a double-blind, placebo-controlled survey. (PMID: 12201356)

Evidence Review Vitamin C 1000 Advanced

Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2013 Feb;17(3):323-33. The role of intestinal microbiota and the immune system. (PMID:23426535)

Evidence Review Probiotic Advanced & Probiotic 8

Evidence Review Astra 8 Immune Tonic

https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/public-information/fact-sheets-a-z/230-how-much-sleep-do-you-really-need.html

https://www.vitamindcouncil.org/health-conditions/respiratory-infections/

Evidence Review Energy

Psychol Bull. 2004 Jul; 130(4): 601–630.. Psychological Stress and the Human Immune System: A Meta-Analytic Study of 30 Years of Inquiry. Suzanne C.Segerstrom and Gregory E. Miller

Evidence Review Stress & Anxiety

Altern Med Rev. 2007 Mar;12(1):25-48.Roxas M1, Jurenka J. Colds and influenza: a review of diagnosis and conventional, botanical, and nutritional considerations.

Evidence Review ActiViral

Chen & Chen, Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology, 2004, p. 770-771, Art of Medicine, USA

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Period Pain? Try These Herbal Remedies First

Period pain, also known as dysmenorrhea, is commonly experienced by women during the reproductive stages of their life and can be divided into two broad categories:

Primary dysmenorrhea: occurring in absence of pelvic pathology, and

Secondary dysmenorrhea: caused by an underlying medical condition

Period Pain – Underlying Causes A naturopathic doctor specialising in women’s health and author of the ‘Period Repair Manual’, Lara Briden explains how normal period pain is caused by the release of prostaglandins from the uterus and usually gets better as you get older. Some mild pain on the first or second day is normal, however more severe pain should always be investigated as it can be caused by an underlying medical condition and can worsen with age.

Period Pain – Herbal Remedies A qualified holistic health care practitioner can help guide you through specific recommendations to help ease period-related pain.

According to Chinese medicine theory, pain is related to stagnation of Qi (energy) and blood in the body. Herbs used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therefore mostly rely on ‘invigorating Qi’ and blood in the channels that will move stagnation to address pain and the symptoms associated with it.

Whether you’ve just experienced your very first period or you’ve had them for many years, the following herbs may be considered for the management of period pain.

Turmeric has been used for its culinary and therapeutic properties in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It contains an active compound curcumin, which provides anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and pain-relieving actions. In traditional Chinese medicine terms turmeric invigorates the blood and Qi to ease pain due to stagnation.

Ginger has traditionally been used in Ayurvedic medicine to help relieve pain, including period pain and reduce inflammation while Willow Bark has been traditionally used in Western herbal medicine as an analgesic (pain-relieving) herb for centuries. It is the active compound salicin, produced in Willow bark responsible for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions.

Tienchi Ginseng is traditionally used in TCM to dispel blood stagnation and reduce bleeding, including heavy menstrual bleeding and can be combined with other anti-inflammatory herbs such as Turmeric, Ginger or Willow bark.

White Peony In TCM it’s said to nourish the blood and is an important herb to regulate menstruation and alleviate pain from menstrual cramps. Ligusticum and Angelica are also used in TCM to invigorate the blood and promote the movement of Qi – commonly used in the management of menstrual disorders including period pain and dysmenorrhea.

If symptoms of pain persist, and before taking any herb pain medicine or supplements, seek advice from your healthcare professional. Always read the label and use only as directed.

 References:

Fusion Health - https://www.fusionhealth.com.au

https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/253812-overview

https://www.larabriden.com/when-period-pain-is-not-normal/

Evidence Review Curcumin Advanced

Evidence Review Tienchi Ginseng

Evidence Review Pain & Inflammation

Evidence Review Women’s Balance

[fusionhealth-blog]

Three tips to help you sleep like a baby

Day to day life can get really busy so it might not leave enough time for getting a full 8 hours’ worth of sleep to help you power through the day, but Fusion Health Naturopath, Erika Morvay tells otherwise. Calming the Shen can help make you more productive and in turn ensure you get through a grueling day and rest easier at night.

Here are the top three tips to get you powering through the day and help you sleep like a baby at night.

Get some exercise: Getting your blood flowing with some regular movement and exercise can help clear your mind and be more productive. Taking 20 minutes out of your day to go for a walk on your lunch break or hit the gym can help you focus better by changing up the scenery from a computer screen to the outdoors. For example, focusing on your breathing while going for a run allows you to prioritise yourself and move away from the stress and anxiety keeping you up at night.

 Clear your mind: According to the National Health Survey of 2014-15, anxiety-related conditions were the most frequently reported with one in twenty Australians reporting both an anxiety-related condition and a mood (affective) disorder.3 Meditation can help with a number of things like self-awareness and stress management, so taking 10 minutes out of your day to meditate can help manage stress and anxiety in some people. If meditation doesn’t help, there are a number of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Ayurvedic and Westerns Herbal Medicines to help calm your shen. Used for centuries, the following herbs can provide additional support for managing symptoms of stress and mild anxiety and let you rest better at night:

Helpful herbs In Traditional Chinese Medicine insomnia can be attributed to disturbance of the Shen. Considered to be our mind and spirit, the concept of Shen is closely related to the heart-organ meridian system and at nighttime is located in the heart space. Holy Basil, also known as Sacred Basil or Tulsi, Withania and Magnolia Bark are used to assist in the management of general stress symptoms. These herbs may treat an array of concerns including mild anxiety, irritability, restlessness, tiredness, nervous indigestion, poor concentration, forgetfulness and stress‐related sleep disturbance.4

Tip: If symptoms of mild anxiety or nervousness interfere with sleep, the herbs mentioned above may be combined with sedating herbs 30-60min before bed.

Ziziphus Known for its sedative properties, Ziziphus has been used in both Western and Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine for managing symptoms such as difficulty falling or staying asleep, excessive dreaming, light sleep and mild anxiety.1,2

Passionflower With sedative, anxiolytic and hypnotic effects, Passionflower has been used in Western Herbal Medicine to help relieve symptoms of nervous restlessness, insomnia and mild anxiety.2

Albizia Thanks to its sedative and hypnotic action, Albizia has a history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine to manage symptoms of insomnia, irritability and forgetfulness and is often used in combination with other sedating herbs.3 Polygala Renowned for its calming and relaxing qualities, Polygala is frequently used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to help with symptoms such as insomnia, agitation, stress, mild anxiety and nightmares.2

Tip: All sedating herbs mentioned above are recommended to be taken 30-60min before bed.

Note: Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist, please consult your healthcare practitioner.

References:

Fusion Health - https://www.fusionhealth.com.au

Jiang JG1, Huang XJ, Chen J, Lin QS, Comparison of the sedative and hypnotic effects of flavonoids, saponins, and polysaccharides extracted from Semen Ziziphus jujube. Nat Prod Res. 2007 Apr;21(4):310-20. PMID: 17479419

Evidence Review Sleep

Chen & Chen 2004

http://www.abs.gov.au/, last visited 31/7/2

Evidence Review Stress & Anxiety

[fusionhealth-blog]

Does Stress Impact the Skin?

Does stress impact the skin? How can signs of stress show up on our skin?

Stress impacts all body systems, including skin. There is a known connection between our gut and skin, known as gut-skin axis. Stress significantly impacts gut function and composition of the gut microbiota (beneficial bacteria).

The skin is also one of our elimination organs and some of the symptoms such as acne, breakouts, excessively dry/dehydrated skin, itchy skin and red inflamed skin may be associated with poor lymphatic function and detoxification.

This is why, in naturopathy, we address gut health as part of skin managemet protocols.  Do you know of skin conditions, which may be exacerbated by stress?

People who suffer from the so called ‘atopic’ skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis, but also some autoimmune conditions that affect skin health, can really feel the effects of stress as their skin symptoms are often exacerbated by it. While autoimmune conditions can be remedied through immune strengthening herbs, the situation can be different when a high level of stress is involved.

Would this mean that happier, less stressed people generally have better skin?

The skin reflects the internal environment of the body so happy people, who know how to manage their stress levels are more likely to have a healthier looking skin.

How can we stop stress messing with our skin?

Sometimes it can be difficult to avoid stress, so having a stress management plan can assist your body to cope better, which will positively impact your skin. Try to eat a varied healthy diet, drink enough water, get plenty of sleep, spend time in nature, move daily and prioritise self-care.

What foods or herbal remedies would you recommend during stressful periods to help support our skin?

Foods rich in the following nutrients help support normal skin health so I recommend you are consuming enough of them in your daily diet or opt for a good quality supplementation, if necessary.

Vitamins A, C &E

Zinc

Silica

Selenium

Sulfur

Omega 3 fatty acids

B-group vitamins

Probiotics

Herbal remedies such as Sacred Basil, Magnolia and Withania have been traditionally used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine to help manage symptoms of stress.

Are there any additional natural remedies we could take or use alongside our skincare to support skin health during stressful periods? I recommend nutrients that support healthy nervous system and adrenal function such a magnesium and B-complex vitamins, but also vitamin C, which is important for normal function of the adrenal glands4 and essential for the production of collagen.

Herbs such as Burdock, Dong Quai, White Peony, Rehmania, Astragalus and Licorice have traditionaly been used in Chinese and Western herbal medicine to help manage skin conditions and promote a healthy complexion.

A topical cream, containing herbal extracts such as Goldenseal, Echinacea and Aloe Vera and essentials oils such as Tea Tree may be applied to help soothe affected skin areas.

Can breathing exercises really calm our skin? How?

Yes it can indirectly. Deep breathing increases the supply of oxygen to your brain and stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes a state of calm.

What would you recommend we do to unwind and relax?

It’s difficult to give specific recommendations as what works for one person may not work for another, but I think we could all benefit from laughing more. They say laughter is the best medicine, so in addition to the above mentioned tips on stress management I recommend to have as much fun as possible and don’t take yourself too seriously.

References

Fusion Health - https://www.fusionhealth.com.au 

Lyte M, Vulchanova L, Brown DR. Stress at the intestinal surface:catecholamines and mucosa-bacteria interactions. Cell Tissue Res. 2011

Braun L, Cohen M. Herbs and natural supplements: an evidence-based guide, 3rd ed. Sydney: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier, 2010. 

Evidence Review Stress & Anxiety

Patak P1, Willenberg HS, Bornstein SR. Vitamin C is an important cofactor for both adrenal cortex and adrenal medulla. Endocr Res. 2004 Nov;30(4):871-5

Telang P, Vitamin C in dermatology, Indian Dermatol Online J. 2013 Apr-Jun; 4(2): 143–146.

Evidence Review Skin Tonic

https://www.stress.org/take-a-deep-breath/ last visited 14/9/17

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A naturopath’s tips to managing your stress levels

Herbal Medicine

 Holy Basil also known as Sacred Basil has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years and is known as ‘Queen of Herbs’ in India. The herb has been used to help manage symptoms of stress such as mild anxiety, irritability, restlessness, tiredness, poor concentration, forgetfulness and stress‐related sleep disturbance.2

In India, Holy Basil is grown outside most homes and worshipped daily.3

 Withania sometimes called Winter Cherry or by its sanskrit name Ashwagandha is an ayurvedic herb used for its adaptogenic properties to help manage symptoms of stress, mild anxiety, and insomnia.2, 4

 Laboratory studies have shown that honokiol and magnolol, active constituents of Magnolia Bark may be beneficial for the symptoms mild anxiety.2 Magnolia bark is traditionally used in traditional Chinese medicine for symptoms of stress, especially if accompanied with digestive upset, abdominal pain, nausea, poor appetite, constipation or diarrhoea.2

   Nutrients for healthy nervous system and adrenal function

 B-complex vitamins are involved in maintaining healthy nervous system5 and adrenal glands. If you are under a lot of stress the body utilises high amounts of these nutrients and it may be beneficial to supplement with a high strength B-complex formula.

 The adrenal glands are among the organs with the highest concentration of vitamin C in the body.6 If you are not getting enough of this essential nutrient through your daily diet, choose a formula with a non-acidic form of Vitamin C such as calcium or sodium ascorbate, which is gentler on the stomach.

 Magnesium supports healthy nervous system function and may be beneficial during times of stress and may help relieve sleeplessness.7

Opt for a supplement containing organic forms of magnesium, such as magnesium glycinate, for enhanced absorption and gastrointestinal tolerance.

 Omega 3 fatty acids are an integral part of cell membranes throughout the body and affect the function of the cell receptors in these membranes 9 supporting normal function of all body systems, including healthy mood balance.8  These fats are essential, meaning the body can’t manufacture them, therefore we must get them from diet. If you chose to supplement with Omega 3’s opt for a formula sustainably sourced and tested for heavy metals, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB’s) and dioxins.

  Diet

What you eat plays a major role in how you feel and how well you respond to stress.

Focus on eating varied, real food diet to help support your body, especially during the times of stress. Try to avoid processed foods, sugar, white flour products and reduce caffeine and alcohol, which can put an additional stress on the body.

  Sleep

Research by the Sleep Health Foundation has found 33 to 45 per cent of Australian adults sleep either poorly or not long enough most nights, leaving them to face the new day with fatigue, irritability and other side effects of sleep deprivation.11

Lack of sleep makes it very difficult to cope with various stressors, but long term stress can also affect the quality of your sleep. Getting at least 7-8 hours of good quality sleep helps your body to recover, heal and cope with any stress more effectively. If you have trouble falling or staying asleep, you can consider a specific herbal and/or nutritional supplementation.

  Take a deep breath

Daily diaphragm/abdominal breathing may help reduce anxiety and reduce stress. Deep breathing increases the supply of oxygen to your brain and stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes a state of calm.10

  Change your perception

You can significantly manage your stress levels by changing your perception of the situation you find difficult to handle. This requires thought awareness and practice, but it can result in a calmer and more peaceful life.

  Learn to say no todemanding projects that you can’t handle and people or situations that stress you out.

References:

Fusion Health - https://www.fusionhealth.com.au 

Schneiderman, Neil, Gail Ironson, and Scott D. Siegel. “STRESS AND HEALTH: Psychological, Behavioral, and Biological Determinants.” Annual review of clinical psychology 1 (2005): 607–628. PMC. Web. 2 Aug. 2017

Evidence review Stress & Anxiety

Dabur Research Foundation, Major Herbs of Aurveda, 2002

Premila, M.S, Ayurvedic Herbs, 2006

Evidence Review Stress B Multi

Patak P1, Willenberg HS, Bornstein SR.Vitamin C is an important cofactor for both adrenal cortex and adrenal medulla.Endocr Res. 2004 Nov;30(4):871-5. PMID: 15666839

Evidence Review Magnesium Advanced 

Evidence Review OceanPure Fish Oil

https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/omega-3-fats/ last visited 7/8/17

https://www.stress.org/take-a-deep-breath/ last visited 7/8/17

https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/848-sleepiness-epidemic-hits-nation.html last visited 7/8/17

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8 Signs You Are Eating Too Much Sugar

Sugar in its various forms is often hidden in most processed foods and drinks, take-aways, fruit juices, fast foods, low-fat ‘labeled’ foods, but also many so called ‘health’ foods.

According to world renowned neuroendocrinologist Dr. Robert Lustig, there is growing scientific consensus that one of the most common types of sugar, fructose, can in excess be toxic to the liver, just like alcohol.2

In his various publications Dr. Lustig points out that sugar is an addictive substance. Excess intake of dietary sugar can promote oxidative stress9, fat storage and weight gain, disrupt the beneficial gut bacteria and over time contribute to various chronic health conditions1.

Common signs and symptoms of dietary sugar overconsumption1. ⦁ Sugar cravings ⦁ Fatigue especially after meals ⦁ Mood swings ⦁ Headaches ⦁ Foggy brain, lack of concentration ⦁ Digestive symptoms, such as diarrhoea, constipation, excess gas and bloating ⦁ Excess body fat especially around the midline ⦁ Loss of skin elasticity. High sugar intake stimulates collagen breakdown which leads to reduction of skin elasticity and formation of premature wrinkles.

Herbal medicines and essential nutrients may support normal blood sugar metabolism

Amla is a traditional Ayurvedic herb and exhibits an antioxidant effect, helping to combat free radical damage as well as adaptogenic properties assisting body to adapt to stressors more effectively.4 Gymnema leaf, also known as Gurmar, has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years.5 It contains active compounds called gymnemic acids, known for its sweetness - suppressing qualities.

In traditional Western herbal medicine Cinnamon bark has long been used to for digestive disturbances such as indigestion, mild spasms of the gastrointestinal tract, bloating and flatulence and for loss of apetite. Several laboratory studies show that Cinnamon may enhance the activity of insulin.6 It’s also traditionally used for its antioxidant properties.

Chromium is an essential nutrient involved in carbohydrate metabolism4 and people with high intake of dietary sugars may have an increased requirement for this nutrient.7

Magnesium plays an important role in supporting blood sugar regulation and normal cellular energy production. 8 If you chose to supplement opt for a chelated form of Magnesium, such as magnesium glycinate for enhanced absorption and gastrointestinal tolerance.

Note: Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before taking herbal medicines and nutritional supplements.

References

Fusion Health - https://www.fusionhealth.com.au

http://sugarscience.ucsf.edu/ last visited 18/8/17

Lustig RH1, Fructose: metabolic, hedonic, and societal parallels with ethanol. J Am Diet Assoc. 2010 (PMID: 20800122)

http://www.abs.gov.au/ last visited 18/8/17

Evidence Review Blood Sugar

Premila, M.S, Ayurvedic herbs. A clinical guide to the healing plants of traditional Indian medicine, The Haworth Press. 2006

Bone, K. A Clinical Guide to Blending Liquid Herbs, Churchill Livingstone, 2000

Braun, L. Cohen M. Herbs & Natural Supplements, p. 321, Churchill Livingstone 3rd. ed, 2010

Evidence Review Magnesium Advanced

Mohanty, Hamouda, Garg, Aljada, Ghanim, Dandona, Glucose Challenge Stimulates Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) Generation by Leucocytes, The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, Volume 85, Issue 8, 1 August 2000. https://doi.org/10.1210/jcem.85.8.6854

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5 Natural Ingredients That Support Healthy Weight Loss

Losing weight and keeping it off can be a challenge, mainly because we over complicate things. From the Cabbage soup diet to the Grapefruit diet, it’s hard to know where to start. We need to accept there are no quick fixes and that only by making positive lifestyle changes will we see lasting results. Think of it like going back to basics, consuming an unprocessed, unrefined ingredients just like the cave men and women used to. To give us the full low down we checked in with Fusion Health holistic nutritionist and naturopath, Erika Morvay, where she advised us on her top 5 ingredients that support healthy weight loss (especially over the festive season).

When you are trying to lose weight it’s important to have the right support team around you to ensure a lasting success. Along with a healthy diet and regular exercise, here are 5 natural ingredients that may help support a healthy weight loss.

Garcinia Cambogia is a small pumpkin-shaped fruit that grows in Southeast Asia and India. The fruit contains an active compound called hydroxycitric acid (HCA). The HCA helps to support fat metabolism.1 A therapeutic extract from garcinia may supplement a healthy diet and lifestyle by aiding the metabolism of fats.

Gymnema is a traditional Ayurvedic herb used to promote healthy digestion and assimilation of nutrients. The leaf of this herb suppresses the ability to taste sweet on the tongue.2 Gymnema has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to support healthy metabolic function.2

Chromium is an essential trace mineral, meaning it must be obtained from the body and it’s Required for carbohydrate, lipid and protein metabolism. Chromium's action plays an important role in blood glucose control and regulation. Chromium is also needed to support the maintenance of insulin sensitivity.1

The main food sources of chromium include eggs, cheese, spinach, banana, mushrooms, broccoli, organ meats and properly prepared (pre-soaked or fermented) grains. If you are not consuming enough of these foods, you may want to consider a supplement.

Green coffee contains chlorogenic acid, a compound that has demonstrated many actions within the human body, including antioxidant action and its effects on thermogenesis.3 Thermogenesis is a metabolic process during which your body burns calories to produce heat. Several factors help induce thermogenesis in your body including exercise, diet and environmental temperature.

Green Tea has been enjoyed for its flavour and health promoting benefits across the globe. The main therapeutic actions are attributed to the content of polyphenols, mainly catechins. They provide an antioxidant action, which may be beneficial during the times of stress, strenuous exercise and weight loss.4

Speak to your healthcare professional before taking any herbal products or supplements. Always read the label and use only as directed.

References Fusion Health - https://www.fusionhealth.com.au

1. Evidence review Garcinia Cambogia 2. Braun & Cohen 3. Evidence review Weight Burn 4. Evidence Review Green Tea

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Relieving Abdominal Bloating

Bloating is an uncomfortable feeling we all may have felt at some point in our lives. It feels as if our stomach is too full of gas and it isn’t the least bit pleasant. It is often caused by bacteria that live in the large intestine and their excessive production of gas. This excess can happen when our digestive tract is not able to properly absorb food.

It can also be accompanied by the following symptoms:

● Belching

● Abdominal pain

● Flatulence

● Reflux

● Lack of appetite

● Feeling of fullness

● Indigestion

● Diarrhoea

● Constipation

It does sound quite alarming when you think about your stomach having all these bacteria. However, it is a fact that your stomach contains ten times more bacteria than all the human cells in the entire body. These bacteria also influence our digestive health, and perform the following functions:

● Promotion of normal gastrointestinal health

● Reducing the risk of certain infections

● Regulation of healthy metabolism

● Affecting positively the immune health.

When the bacteria in the stomach becomes imbalanced, you could experience symptoms of bloating or indigestion. These friendly bacteria also inhabit the bowel, vagina and urinary tract and can be disrupted by stress or the invasion of microorganisms. Such imbalance can be caused by the following reasons:

● Antibiotics

● Diet that is high in refined carbohydrates, sugar and processed food

● Diet low in fermentable fibre

● Toxins

● Chronic stress and infection

However, there are herbal medicines that Fusion Health Naturopath and Nutritionist Erika Morvay recommends to help in relieving digestive symptoms.

1. Globe Artichoke – this can support the liver and gallbladder functions. It can also relieve bloating, abdominal discomfort, belching and nausea.

2. Chamomile – it has components that are antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory.

3. Chinese Yam – it is a Chinese herb believed to strengthen the spleen and stomach energy.

4. Goldthread and Citrus Peel – traditional Chinese medicine makes use of these to relieve abdominal bloating, reflux, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea

5. Black Atractylodes and Evodia – traditional Chinese medicine uses these to relieve nausea, vomiting and abdominal discomfort.

There are also many food supplements that contain these incredibly helpful components. Our Probiotic 8 is a microbiota maintenance formula that supports digestion and immune health. It also improves healthy bowel function and relieves the symptoms of abdominal bloating such as flatulence, bloating and digestive comfort. It also contains a blend of eight probiotic strains that improve the health of not only the gastrointestinal microflora but the vaginal and urinary microflora as well. Moreover, it can also improve the faeces’ properties and characteristics and normalises the time of their movement in the gastrointestinal tract.

For more information about the Probiotic 8 or for more tips on reducing/relieving bloating and indigestion, check us out at www.fusionhealth.com.au.

Sources:

https://www.fusionhealth.com.au/products/probiotic-8

www.fusionhealth.com.au

Why Do I Get So Bloated All The Time – Fusion Health

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The Painful Truth About Arthritis

We often hear the word ‘arthritis’ from our elders when they complain about their knees hurting. It has also become a general term for a lot of people when complaining about leg pains. At times, people use it jokingly to refer to when their knees and legs hurt from walking, standing, or running for long periods of time.

Arthritis is often defined as the joints’ inflammations. The joint is a crucial part of the body in between two bones. It can affect one or more joints in your body. It is very common and can happen to people of various races, ages, or genders. However, it is most common in adults of 65 years of age and older. It also occurs more in women and overweight individuals.

What Are Its Symptoms?

The most common symptoms are pain in the joints, swelling, and stiffness and these three may cause a decrease in movement. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may worsen as more time goes by that it remains untreated.

What Are The Different Types?

There are beyond 100 types identified. Unlike the common notion that it only occurs to the knees, it also happens to other parts of the body like the hands. It all depends on the kind.

1. Osteoarthritis - This occurs when the cartilage wears away and your connecting bones rub against each other and can cause pain.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis - This occurs when the immune system goes awry and attacks your joints, causing uncontrolled inflammation.

3. Metabolic Arthritis - This occurs when excess uric acid builds up and causes severe joint pain.

You might now find that you are experiencing these kinds of pain in your joints and have a difficult time moving. In any case that you do, it is important to go to a doctor to have your blood, urine, or X-ray tested. It is also important to start living healthy by exercising, resting, and eating just right. There are also supplements that may help you lessen the possibility and worsening of arthritis. There are also a range of herbal medicines that have substances which can help relieve pain and inflammation in the body.

Here are some of those:

1. Turmeric - It contains curcumin which is a key component that relieves inflammation and pain.

2. Boswellia - This was traditionally used as Ayurvedic medicine for mild rheumatic conditions. In addition, studies have shown that Boswellic acids provide relief for inflammation and pain.

3. Ginger - Ayurvedic herbal medicine made use of ginger for pain relief and inflammation reduction. In Chinese medicine, it was used to improve peripheral circulation.

4. Willow Bark - It is commonly used to relieve pain and mild gout. Studies have shown that salicin, its main active compound, helps relieves pain in the lower back.

5. Fang Feng - This is traditionally used by traditional Chinese medicine to relieve Bi Zheng or the painful obstruction syndrome. It is caused by the invasion of exterior pathogenic factors like wind and dampness which disturbs blood circulation.

6. Tienchi Ginseng - This component dispels blood stagnation, reduces bleeding, resolves bruising, relieves swelling, and inflammation. It can also be mixed with Turmeric, Ginger, or Willow Bark.

We also offer a range of Chinese medicine for joint pain that contain the aforementioned components that can help you alleviate joint pain, swelling, and stiffness:

1. Calcium Advanced - for Vitamin D

2. Glucosamine Advanced Repair - glucosamine and chondroitin mixed with Chinese herbs to support joints and strengthen tendons and bones

3. Glucosamine Premium Repair - glucosamine, chondroitin, and ginger that can help relieve mild osteoarthritis symptoms

4. Curcumin Advanced - anti-inflammatory formula to help relieve mild osteoarthritis symptoms

5. Turmeric - daily dose of two tablets are worth 750 mg of curcuminoids

6. Pain and Inflammation - herbal pain relief that also functions as anti-inflammatory

7. OceanPure Fish Oil - enteric-coated omega-3s with astaxanthin

8. Kidney Tonic - herbs to promote healthy fluid metabolism

We, at Fusion Health, believe in the power of both Chinese medical wisdom and modern medicine. Our products are professionally and meticulously produced in Australia using a variety of quality ingredients from all over the world.

Contact us to know more about our commitment and our range of products!

Ref: 

https://www.fusionhealth.com.au/ 6 Herbal Medicines for Pain Relief You Need to Know – Fusion Health https://www.fusionhealth.com.au/products/category/bones-joints