Below you will find some articles about interesting health topics. This section will be updated on an ongoing basis, as things change and customer issues change!
Please note, if you have a serious health concern you should consult a trained medical professional.
Q. So what's all the fuss about Manuka Honey?
A. Manuka Honey is becoming a hugely popular health product. The wonder of this Manuka Health Manuka Honey is explained in this downloadable document.
Download Manuka Honey Booklet
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Q. Nourishment & your bones
A. According to the National Osteoporosis Society, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 12 men will develop osteoporosis over the age of 50. It can cause painful and disabling fractures, particularly in the wrist, hip and spine. As bone is a living, metabolically active tissue, it is constantly rebuilding itself. Bone is broken down through a process called "resorption", releasing its minerals into the general circulation. New bone is then formed to replace the reabsorbed bone, preventing a net loss of bone. This is called bone "remodelling". However, as we age, bone formation begins to fall behind which may cause the gradual bone loss that culminates in osteoporosis.
It is arguable that a certain amount of bone loss seems inevitable with the passage of time, however, the process is not entirely beyond our control. Smoking, poor nutrition, excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption, and physical inactivity contribute to bone loss. An important, but little known, relationship exists between soft drinks and bone health. Fizzy drinks contain high levels of phosphoric acid and this has been shown in a number of studies to increase bone loss.
Calcium, boron, magnesium, and vitamins D and K are essential for bone protection. Studies have shown that calcium supplements can reduce bone loss in the hand and arm as much as 50% in women and have a beneficial effect on the spine.
Individuals with osteoporosis have lower magnesium content. The mineral boron has been shown to aid in calcium retention and absorption. A key factor in the poor absorption of calcium is low stomach acid. Studies confirm that 40% of postmenopausal women are deficient in stomach acid. Vitamin C and malic acid are useful supplements to help boost mineral absorption.
The major biological function of vitamin D is to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium, helping to form and maintain strong bones. The severity of bone fractures has been shown to correlate with circulating vitamin K2 levels.
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