VOL. 2 NO. 2
By now you probably know that the essential fatty acids, Omega-3 and -6, are a vital part of the daily diet and participate in a myriad of functions: heart health; eyesight; memory and cognition; hair, skin and nails; digestion and metabolism; and the list goes on. EFAs are also an important part of a properly functioning immune system, one aspect of which is the inflammatory allergic response.
Dietary EFAs, if they are consumed in their natural, unrefined state (i.e., not damaged by heat, light or oxygen), can have anti-inflammatory and anti-histaminic effects. With the assistance of certain co-factor enzymes, vitamins and minerals, fatty acids are converted into prostaglandins, which are substances that regulate various processes throughout the body. Omega-6, found in most nuts and seeds, converts to GLA (gamma linolenic acid) and is then further converted into the prostaglandin 1 family (PG1). PG1 supports the immune system, and can block allergic reactions and prevent inflammation. Another family of anti-inflammatory prostaglandins, PG3, is generated from eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which the body makes out of Omega-3, the most abundant vegetarian source of which is flax seed oil. PG3 blocks the release of inflammatory substances from immune cells, which contribute to the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
In addition to increasing consumption of Omegas-3 and -6, it is important to limit consumption of the fats that can cause inflammation and counteract the health benefits of EFAs. Arachidonic acid (AA) is one such fat; by converting to both PG2 (which stimulates both the inflammatory and allergic response) and leukotriene (which is 1,000 to 10,000 times more inflammatory than histamine), AA weakens the immune system and promotes allergy. Major sources are meat, milk and eggs – commonly chosen foods that contribute to chronic inflammation.
One important enzyme that is required for the conversion of EFAs to the anti-inflammatory prostaglandins is delta-6 desaturase. This enzyme can become deactivated by alcohol, tobacco, cortisone drugs, excess saturated fat and heated fats that have become denatured, such as trans- fatty acids. Food for thought!
The thing to remember is this: EFAs provide nutrients that are foundational building blocks for a healthy immune system, which influences inflammation and allergic reactions. Udo's 3·6·9 Oil Blend® supplies the ideal ratio of Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids; by using it regularly in your daily meals, you can help to keep the scales of health tipped in your favour.
Reference: C. Bateson-Koch, DC, NC, Allergies: Disease in Disguise (Burnaby, BC: alive, 1994) 119-124.
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For all the reasons you take EFAs, reach for Bija Udo's Choice® Omega Bars. Six luscious flavours, made with velvety organic chocolate and ingredients from around the world. A full tablespoon of Udo's 3·6·9 Oil Blend® in every bar, hidden inside a delicious creamy truffle-like filling. |
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Bee pollen's great – a nutrient-dense staple for natural health nuts who are into whole foods. But Femal® pollen is not bee pollen…
Bees collect pollen from any number of different kinds of flowers. Femal® is a special blend of standardized pollen extracts from seven individually and organically grown varieties of flowers. The pollen is hand-collected at just the right time, before is it carried away by either bees or the wind. Then a special enzymatic process extracts the nutrients from inside the pollen grain, leaving the hard outer shell (along with any allergy potential) behind.
Why go to all this trouble? Different pollens have different pharmacological effects. The flower pollens in Femal® have been recognized for their beneficial effects on the symptoms of PMS and menopause. Women around the world have been enjoying the clinically proven effects of Femal® for over 10 years. Now, for the first time ever, Flora employs breakthrough technology to offer Femal® in a vegetarian capsule. |
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| Did You Know...... |
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Many people find that taking a dose of bee pollen (as opposed to flower pollen) every day can desensitize them and alleviate hay fever symptoms. Consider Flora's "Unlocked" Bee Pollen; the hard shell of the pollen grain is cracked open, allowing absorption of the nutrients inside.
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Discovered over 50 years ago, Masquelier's® Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins (grape seed extract) have been proven to help reduce the appearance of varicose veins. Beyond Grape Seed® combines Masquelier's® OPCs with bilberry extract – optimal ingredients for unsightly leg veins and to help keep legs looking toned and smooth. Also in each capsule is a potent 290 mg of cranberry powder from Salus-Haus' organic herb farm in Chile – an extra boost to help prevent recurrent urinary tract infections. This summer, get Beyond Grape Seed® and get back those great legs.
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Instead of isolating one ingredient, Florasil® contains the full spectrum of minerals as Nature intended. Florasil® is made from the horsetail plant harvested in the springtime, when it contains the highest amount of ortho-silicic acid, or soluble silica. A chemical-free extraction process at a neutral pH ensures maximum bioavailability, which can lead to stronger nails, softer skin and healthier hair – not to mention stronger bones. Florasil® is standardized to silicon content, but were you aware of the other minerals in each capsule? It also contains significant amounts of absorbable potassium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, as well as other trace minerals. |
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Contrary to popular belief, iron deficiency is not only a female problem. It is possible in males, as well, and can easily be prevented.
Young children and adolescents are also at risk due to rapid growth and lack of absorbable iron in the diet (the iron in fortified cereals and grain products is not easily utilized by the body). Watch for symptoms like difficulty concentrating, poor sleep, fatigue or pale skin. Before supplementing, ask your doctor for a "serum ferritin" test, which measures the body's iron stores, and is the best way to catch a deficiency in the early stages, before hemoglobin levels begin to drop.
Both children and adults who engage in physical activity should be aware that iron is lost through sweat. In addition, iron stores in the blood are used to provide oxygen to muscles and to produce cellular energy in the form of ATP. Many symptoms that athletes commonly attribute to overtraining may actually be signs that the body is deficient in iron: a racing heart, chest pain with exercise, shortness of breath, muscle stiffness, and exhaustion during and after exercise.
| Floradix® Formula Liquid Iron, and its yeast- and gluten-free counterpart, Floravit®, are low-dose iron supplements designed to prevent iron deficiency, and are safe for long-term, everyday use. Because it contains non-heme iron (as opposed to animal-source or heme iron), Floradix® works with the body's natural shut-off mechanism to slow down absorption in the event of an overdose, so iron overload is generally not a worry. Consistent intake of absorbable iron will help keep you running strong throughout your life. |
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| It may be summer, but be ready for that annoying cold that could pop up at any time; don't let it keep you from enjoying your vacation or even just a sunny lunch break from work. Sambu®Guard Cough and Cold Lozenges can support the immune system and alleviate symptoms like a sore, scratchy throat, sinus congestion or an irritating cough. Naturally sweetened with cane sugar, packed with acerola cherries, and flavoured with real elderberries, they're also a zinc lozenge that meets the recommended daily intake for vitamin C. Keep them in your pocket, bag, desk or car. |
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Whether you're burned or bitten, Flora's unique topical formulations have been designed to care for your skin throughout the ravages of summer.
"Smells Like Citronella!" is a blend of moisturizing sweet almond and jojoba oils with pure essential oils including citronella, which has traditionally been used to deter flying insects. If one happens to get you, the other healing herbal extracts in this easy-to-apply roll-on can help to ease the redness and swelling.
Paraben-free Aloe·Comfrey Cooling Gel is just that – cool, soothing relief for sundrenched skin. Aloe, comfrey and vitamin E heal and hydrate to reduce the appearance of skin damage caused by the sun. The natural herbal preservative system in this gel may also contribute anti-bacterial and antiseptic benefits to further enhance healing. |
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Eating an artichoke is a lot of work – scraping each petal (did you know artichokes are flowers?) with your teeth till you get past the prickly fuzz to the coveted heart. |
| Salus has made it easy with fresh Artichoke Juice. Free of additives, flavourings or preservatives, this is the ideal way to support liver function, which can reduce cholesterol and triglycerides. Consistent use of Artichoke Juice can also kick-start sluggish digestion and correct chronic constipation. |
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For more immediate (yet non-habit-forming) normalization of bowel function, Salus Manna-Fig Syrup offers two mild remedies noted for their ability to prevent stress-related constipation: the sap of the manna ash tree and the syrup from delicious ripe figs. |
You're likely familiar with Coenzyme Q10 as a strong antioxidant and superb nutrient to support the health of the heart and gums. Before you choose a supplement, ask these questions:
Vegetarian capsule or gelatin capsule?
Flora uses vegetarian capsules because they contain less moisture than regular gelatin, which means improved product stability. Our glass bottles also provide better protection against moisture than plastic.
Where is the raw material from?
Flora sources its CoQ10 from Japan, a well-established manufacturer of the highest quality CoQ10.
What else is in it?
Flora uses only two necessary and harmless non-medicinal ingredients: microcrystalline cellulose is an excipient (an inert substance used as a base), and vegetable-source magnesium stearate keeps it flowing through the encapsulation machines.
| All of the critical parts of the hawthorn plant have parallel but distinct effects on circulation and heart health. Flora has combined the blossoms, berries and leaves to create Hawthorn Formula Coreplex® – an easily absorbable liquid tonic, rich in flavonoids and safe for long-term use. It also contains passionflower (to calm and quell spasms), hibiscus, apple juice, mineral-rich blackstrap molasses, and natural strawberry flavour. Because it tastes great, you'll want to take it every day – and as with many things, consistency is the key. |
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| Ginkgo biloba has been used medicinally for more than a thousand years, and is especially valued for its beneficial antioxidant effects on memory and circulation. In addition, some studies have indicated that ginkgo may help relieve tinnitus in some people, particularly if the ringing sound is related to vascular insufficiency of the ear. For those who suffer from this annoying affliction, this could be the best news they've heard in a while. Be sure to choose a quality extract that guarantees a standardized amount of the active ingredients and minimal amounts of allergenic compounds (e.g., ginkgolic acid) - such as Flora's 60 mg vegetarian capsule. |
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Flora sets a new antioxidant standard with Pomegranate Plus: a full-spectrum, synergistic blend of standardized extracts from whole pomegranates, green tea, bilberry and Masquelier's® grape seed, as well as vitamin C. This pomegranate extract guarantees its punicalagin content. Whereas ellagic acid (the "active ingredient" in many pomegranate products) is found in numerous fruits and vegetables, the punicalagin molecule occurs in the pomegranate (predominantly in the skin), and has been found to be responsible for the antioxidant potency of the pomegranate.
| A recent study published in The American Journal of Cardiology confirms that pomegranate (not ellagic acid) supports heart health by enhancing circulation, lowering serum cholesterol and reducing heart strain. To get the full benefits, make sure your pomegranate supplement offers you what Nature does. |
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Floravision®. Pretty self-explanatory, right? Floravision® contains 250 mg of standardized bilberry extract, as well as 100 mg of blueberry powder – both well known for supporting the health of the eyes. Bilberry can increase blood flow (including nutrients and O2) through the capillaries in the eye, improve night vision and slow the progression of cataracts.
Here's the surprising kicker: bilberry is also recognized by Health Canada as a treatment for diarrhea! What a great supplement to take with you on your vacation, just in case…
Now back to the eyes. Lutein is found primarily in dark leafy greens; it protects the eyes from free radical damage, and is among the best options for prevention of macular degeneration and cataracts. Flora Lutein supplies a therapeutic dose (18 mg) of lutein in a vegetarian capsule, fortified with 10 mg of our standardized bilberry, all in a whole food base of Canadian-grown organic carrot powder. |
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