Category Archives: Probiotics

Probiotics

Does Floratrex need refrigeration? 

Does Floratrex need refrigeration?

This question around Floratrex probiotic has been causing us a lot of frustration. We have recieved a number of emails from customers in a huge panic thinking that the product we have sent them must have been ruined because it has not been sent to us in a cool bag, even though the American distributors do that as stated on their web site. Some customers have been pretty hostile questioning our integrity, product knowledge and in one or two cases more or less accused us of swindling them. Now, let me reply to this concern. We have been in business for a long time (I have been dealing with probiotics for well over 25 years!), and we can assure you that we do know what we are doing.

In the UK, not only is refrigeration not necesary but we are not entirely sure why they are doing this even in the USA, as some of the strains it contains (the spore based ones to be specific) may actually be damaged by doing this. This was confirmed to me in a discussion I had some years ago with a PhD microbiologist, who had a particular specialism in probiotics, who told me in no uncertain terms that spore form probiotics should definitely stay out of the fridge. So I challenged the company on this. They ignored my request to comment specifically on this point (I then tried a second time when they did not answer me the first time, after which I gave up trying, as they clearly couldn’t or wouldn’t answer the question) but here are some extracts of the reply I did get

“The majority of strains in Floratrex are spore based which do not require refrigeration (however what they did not own up to was the fact that spore form proboptics could be damaged by refrigeration)...We have performed stability testing on Floratrex and have shown that even at room temperature (below 80 F) the potency will still be at or above the CFU’s stated on the label…This is confirmed with third party quantitative testing of active CFU’s at 18 months at room temperature.

To summarize (note American spelling!) it is not necessary to refrigerate the product, however if a customer is wishing to extend the shelf life and guarantee preservation of the product for as long as possible, refrigeration is helpful”. Now, we would question even the “refrigeration is helpful”  remark as I have it on the highest authority that spore based probiotics could be weakened by refrigeration, especiallyif this is done long term. In fairness they also state “The probiotic raw material source we purchase from also suggests refrigerated storage to maximize shelf life even though it is not “required””, but I would question whether this information is fully accurate given the aforementioned comments.

Either way, please do not panic if we send this to unrefrigerated, the product is fine, as proven by the reviews from our customers which you can of course read by clicking “reviews” at the top of the page. If we were sending you spoilt product, how come Floratrex still works? All we will say is please DO keep it out of direct sunlight which can damage the product, though even there, the dark bottle gives Floratrex quite good protection from sunlight anyway, and nothing bad is likely to happen if you accidentally leave in a sunny place for a little while.

Just one further comment on this concern. Floratrex has been around for a little while and for the first year or so, the manufacturers shipped the product unrefrigerated to their domestic customers, and only began sending it to them in an ice bag after they had been selling it for a while. I can only guess that this was done as a precaution, given that they are based in Texas where temperatures frequently exceed 100F from May to September, and are above 80F most of the year. It’s also very, very humid there (I visted them in person so have personal experience of this region of the country), so perhaps that’s also a factor. So basically their climate bares almost no resemblence to say, Aberdeen, Scotland or even our warehouse in Berkshire.

Hope this clears things up

Best wishes

Mark G. Lester – Company Founder / Owner / Director / Basically The Big Cheese

Bowel Health, Probiotics

Running out of patience with the runs? How to prevent and treat diarrhoea

It’s far from a pleasant subject and it may not be particularly enticing to read about, but it’s well worth looking into if you’re a regular sufferer – yes, diarrhoea. The term is generally defined as the passing of stool that’s of liquid consistency more than three times in a day.

Like it or not, diarrhoea can strike all ages of people at any point in their lives. On average, adults tend to experience the condition up to four times a year, but it usually clears up on its own after a day or two. This form is considered acute or short-term diarrhoea; it generally doesn’t go on for more than three weeks. However, chronic or long-term diarrhoea’s a different matter, as it can pose a serious threat your health, likely being symptomatic of other problems. Chronic diarrhoea then lasts longer than three weeks and, as you may have guessed, is often related to bowel function disorders.

 

Diarrhoea causes

There are a number of potential causes of diarrhoea; while some tend to be short-lived, other are usually more prolonged and often more severe and/ or serious:

  • Bacterial infections enter the body when ingested via tainted food or water; common bacteria responsible for bringing on diarrhoea include salmonella, campylobacter, Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Shigella

 

  • Hepatitis and rotavirus are viral infections that may be identifiable because of diarrhoea; other such viral infections are Norwalk, cytomegalovirus and herpes simplex viruses

 

  • Basic intolerance to specific foods may also result in diarrhoea, often the likes of food colouring, milk sugar (lactose) and other additives can be culprits

 

  • Parasites (microscopic organisms) present in food or water consumed into the digestive system; these include Giardia lamblia, Cryptosporidium and Entamoeba histolytica

 

  • Sadly, some medications for the likes of blood pressure, such as antibiotic and antacid medications that contain magnesium, can be causes

 

  • Bowel disorders including celiac disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

 

  • Finally, surgeries including gallbladder removal and stomach surgery can be culprits; like it or not, they tend to throw things out of balance in the digestive system, at least for a time, thus in most cases things settle down and the diarrhoea passes following a successful operation.

 

Preventing diarrhoea

You can take steps yourself to prevent experiencing diarrhoea by avoiding both greasy and fibrous foods and foods that are particularly sweet. Also, try to cut down or completely cut out dairy products; they can be major aggravators of diarrhoea.

While you’re experiencing a diarrhoea bout, aim for a mostly liquid-based intake before slowly returning to soft foods such as plain rice and bananas. And, of course, don’t forget to chew food thoroughly – after all, this is the first part of the digestion process!

You might also try one or more diarrhoea supplements; several are available through us at The Finchley Clinic; they’re very well received by our customers for bowel calm, but specifically for helping with diarrhoea we suggest…

Saccharomyces boulardii – currently on special offer, it’s internationally acclaimed as the number one probiotic for diarrhoea, to help reduce discomfort and urgency and to restore control and regular bowel movements; a completely natural probiotic, it offers support for fast-acting bowel calm, comfort and control when needed most.

Healthy Gut, Immune health, Probiotics

Be proactive about gut health – boost your ‘good’ bacteria via probiotics

Did you know that bacteria can be beneficial to you? If you follow this blog, are a regular customer with us or have consumed probiotics in the past, you might well be. If you’re not or haven’t done any of those things, though, it could well be news to you. Yes, true; the wrong bacteria in the wrong place in our bodies can certainly do harm (hence why we use antibacterial products), but the right bacteria in the right parts of our bodies can do us considerable good. A case in point is, indeed, the consuming of probiotics.

If you’re unaware of exactly what probiotics are, well, it’s understandable. They’re something we hear about all the time in the media but aren’t actually explained very often.
A vast array of live micro-organisms that, once consumed and present in the digestive system, help promote good health in the digestive tract (the intestines and digestive organs) and the immune system, probiotics are commonly referred to as ‘good’ or ‘friendly’ bacteria – in contrast to ‘bad’ bacteria that cause bugs and diseases when they find their way into our bodies. We can consume probiotics through specific foods, drinks and, yes, naturally-derived supplements.

 

What are the benefits of probiotics?

So why are probiotics so good for our health? Well, research suggests they can help protect our bodies in two different ways. The first is all about what they do in the digestive tract. Here, their presence aids in ensuring a balance between the gut’s ‘good’ and ‘bad’ bacteria; the scales can be tipped in favour of the ‘bad’ due to poor diet, antibiotic over-reliance, stress, poor sleep hygiene and environmental factors. Thus, ‘bad’ bacteria dominance is highly common – which means consuming probiotics can genuinely make a difference to one’s health.

And, owing to their variety and versatility, there’s a large spread of benefits that different probiotics can deliver; the various types of probiotic being determined by their genus, species and strain level. Two of the most common ways to categorise probiotics are as:

  • Lactobacillus – experts believe there are more than 50 species of lactobacilli bacteria, usually to be found in the body’s digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. You can get your fill of them via fermented foods, such as certain yoghurts, and they can aid in treating conditions and diseases including antibiotic-related diarrhoea, bacterial vaginosis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), lactose intolerance, respiratory infections, skin disorders (acne, canker sores, eczema and fever blisters), urinary tract infection and yeast infections.

 

  • Bifidobacteria – most of the colon’s ‘good’ bacteria can be classed as one of 30 species of bifidobacteria; although they take root in the intestinal tract shortly after birth (especially in breastfed babies), it’s important to maintain their levels for good gut health. Studies show bifidobacteria help boost tolerance in blood lipids and glucose and combat IBS and its symptoms (including discomfort, pain and bloating).

 

 

Probiotic supplements

Unfortunately, for different reasons, of course, some people aren’t able to extract all the probiotics their bodies need for good health from food alone. In which case, going the supplement route is a very good option. For instance, the following probiotic offerings from the Optibac range are all available through us at The Finchley Clinic – and are currently on special offer…

Optibac Probiotics for every day EXTRA STRENGTH – comprises five well-researched probiotic strains, including Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum, in an extra-strength dose of 20 billion live micro-organisms per capsule; also, results from a clinical trial suggest this supplement may reduce birch tree pollen sufferers’ symptoms (hayfever).

Optibac Probiotics for every day – a high-quality supplement containing five billion live probiotics per capsule, six probiotic strains and added prebiotics to help maintain, on a daily basis, digestive health, immunity and energy levels.

Optibac Probiotics for every day Max –promotes a healthy balance of ‘friendly’ bacteria throughout the entire intestinal tract; each capsule delivers 50 billion live micro-organisms.

Candida, Candizolv, Probiotics, Wild Endive Formula A

Combating candida: how much do you know about yeast infections?

It’s a fact; it’s hard to prevent some living organisms taking residence on or inside of your body. Sure, it’s far from pleasant to contemplate, but it’s reality; many of our bodies contain a bug of some kind at any one time. Like it or not, the intestinal tract is often home to a good number of harmful organisms and bacteria, one of which is the yeast infection known as candida albicans.

Now, everybody has some amount of candida in or on their bodies, like it or not, but should you have too much (referred to as candida ‘overgrowth’), then its influence can be negative and harmful to your health; an imbalance of candida may affect your mouth, skin and genitals and not just cause discomfort but even prove life-threatening. Yes, really.

So, with all that in mind, here follow some further must-know facts about yeast infections (and, in particular, those concerning candida)…

 

Candida occurrence in – and on – our bodies is common

As noted, there’s no immediate cause for concern when it comes to candida in or on the human body; it’s normal, both on the skin and in the gastrointestinal tract. And this is because, so long as you’re healthy, your immune system and – especially in the gut – the symbiotic bacteria are effective at keeping candida and many similar fungal species in check, in balance and not enabling them to ‘overgrow’. The trouble then comes if your immune system’s compromised; should that be the case, the result could be candida overgrowth and unpleasant symptoms.

 

You may find a yeast infection in your mouth

Far from appealing it may be, but it’s entirely likely that, should you suffer from a yeast infection at all, there’s a decent chance it’ll strike you orally. In this form, it’s commonly referred to as thrush (similar vaginal infections in women are due to a slightly different kind of yeast, in fact). It’s especially common in new-born babies but tends to move on quickly in this instance. Yet, like it or not, candida overgrowth can occur in around 25 percent of all adults, most often as a result of poor oral hygiene. Studies have found that where plaque, tartar and amalgam fillings are present, there’s a chance candida will be too1.

 

Vaginal yeast infections aren’t easy to tackle

If you want to prevent yeast infections afflicting your body then one of the best practices is undoubtedly the practice of good hygiene. That said, though, supposedly good-health-ensuring washing practices of the female genital areas may have the opposite effect. For instance, frequent douching may lead to yeast infections and even over-the-counter-bought medication products marked as anti-fungal have, now and again, been possible causes of vaginal candidiasis2. Additionally, intrauterine contraceptives (such as coils inserted into the uterus) appear to potentially result in candida infections3.

 

Asthma inhaler use could spur on candida

For asthma sufferers, inhalers are crucial for alleviating their symptoms, of course, but unfortunately research suggests that, among adults, use of an asthma inhaler for more than six months could possibly lead to oral candidiasis4. To be fair, though, for anyone the use of an inhaler or any kind of oral ‘appliance’ (such as dentures, retainers and mouth guards) could possibly help expose them to candida.

 

There’s a connection between candida and diabetes

Yes, bad news for those who already have to deal with living with diabetes on a daily basis – although they may already be aware of it already – because they’re more likely to develop a genital yeast infection than the diabetes-free. Why is this? Well, quite simply, the increased blood glucose levels that diabetes sufferers experience allow for the sort of terrain that enables yeast growth. Moreover, as diabetes has a tendency to lessen immune responses, the likelihood or repeat infections is high. Plus, while women are likelier to get Candida albicans and Candida glabrate infections, men who aren’t circumcised might well become infected with Candida balaritis5.

 

Candida feeds on carbs

Diet, as you may have expected, influences the candida levels present in your body’s digestive tract. To wit, if you want to reduce the chances of candida overgrowth here, you may want to curb the carbs. Research seems to suggest that a diet rich in carbohydrates makes it more likely someone will develop candida overgrowth than consumption of a diet rich instead in amino acids, fatty acids and proteins – it seems candida levels can get a boost instantly after anyone eats carbohydrates7.

 

Candida boosts the risk of developing MS

This one should be a big, glaring lighthouse-flashlight of a warning of candida overgrowth because, yes, the chances of developing multiple sclerosis (MS) appear to rise following a candida infection. The evidence? A case-control study made the link between MS and candida infection thanks to proving that, among its test subjects, MS sufferers experienced higher overall blood serum levels of candida than those without MS8.

 

Probiotics can provide protection from candida

It’s only fair to say that once it’s set up home in or on your body, candida can prove stubborn to shift, yet can usually be eliminated in two to six months; although whatever you turn to for treating an infection needs to be combined with a low-sugar and non-alcohol diet.

And, indeed, the especially good news is that there are many probiotic- and non-probiotic supplements on the market specifically produced to help prevent and fight candida overgrowth – and yeast infections, in general. Among the high-quality, natural candida supplements available through us at The Finchley Clinic are the following:

Candizolv – our suppliers inform us that this supplement is definitely effective against candida overgrowth; fat soluble, it establishes itself in the fat cells of your body, but is slowly released over time to weaken all fungal yeast cells, no matter where they are within the body

Wild Endive Formula A – maintains an acceptable balance of candida toxins, aiding the work of the liver, for those who may be concerned about a possible ‘die-off’ when undergoing a candida cleanse.

 

 

Fivelac – similar to Threelac but packing more of a punch (it contains five anti candida probiotic strains instead of three), this supplement’s a good candida fighter; not suitable for vegans as it contains a small amount of lactose.

 

References:

  1. Muzurovic S., Babajic E., Masic T., Smajic R. and Selmanagic A. ‘The relationship between oral hygiene and oral colonisation with Candida species’. Med Arh. 2012; 66 (6) :415-7.
  2. Ekpenyong C. E., Inyang-etoh E. C., Ettebong E. O., Akpan U. P., Ibu J. O. and Daniel N. E. ‘Recurrent vulvovaginal candidosis among young women in south eastern Nigeria: the role of lifestyle and health-care practices’. Int J STD AIDS. 2012 Oct; 23 (10): 704-9. doi: 10.1258/ijsa.2012.011382.
  3. Güdücü N., Gönenç G., Içi H., Yiiter A. B., Basüllü N. and Dünder I. ‘Clinical importance of detection of bacterial vaginosis, trichomonas vaginalis, candida albicans and actinomyces in Papanicolaou smears’. Clin Exp Obstet Gynecol. 2012; 39 (3): 333-6.
  4. Pinto C. R., Almeida N. R., Marques T. S., Yamamura L. L., Costa L. A. and Souza-Machado A. ‘Local adverse effects associated with the use of inhaled corticosteroids in patients with moderate or severe asthma’. J Bras Pneumol. 2013 Jun-Aug; 39 (4): 409-17. doi: 10.1590/S1806-37132013000400003.
  5. Nyirjesy P. and Sobel J. D. ‘Genital mycotic infections in patients with diabetes’. Postgrad Med. 2013 May; 125 (3): 33-46. doi: 10.3810/pgm.2013.05.2650.
  6. Fidel P. L. Jr. ‘Immunity to Candida’. Oral Dis. 2002; 8 Suppl 2: 69-75.
  7. Hoffmann C., Dollive S., Grunberg S., Chen J., Li H., Wu G. D., Lewis J. D. and Bushman F. D. ‘Archaea and fungi of the human gut microbiome: correlations with diet and bacterial residents’. PLoS One. 2013 Jun 17; 8 (6): e66019. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0066019. Print 2013.
  8. Benito-León J., Pisa D., Alonso R., Calleja P., Díaz-Sánchez M. and Carrasco L. ‘Association between multiple sclerosis and Candida species: evidence from a case-control study’. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis. 2010 Sep; 29 (9): 1139-45. doi: 10.1007/s10096-010-0979-y. Epub 2010 Jun 17.
Floratrex, Immune health, Probiotics

Floratrex: the ultimate probiotic solution?

How much do you know about your body’s intestinal tract – otherwise known as the gut? Are you aware, for instance, it’s naturally home to thousands of micro-organisms? So much so that, taken together, all these microscopic, living entities are referred to as the gut flora (or the gut microbiome)? Well, now you do – and it’s in your interest to be aware that it’s important for not just your intestinal health, but your overall body’s health that this gut flora (mostly made up of bacteria) achieves and retains a balance between ‘good bacteria’ and ‘bad bacteria’ – or, of course, that that mixture of bacteria is weighted in the favour of the ‘good’.

 

Powerful probiotics

Otherwise known as probiotics, these ‘good bacteria’ don’t just reside in the intestines, colon and stomach, but also the mouth, oesophagus and the naval cavity, which ensures they account for more than three pounds in weight (equal to the weight of your brain) in your body. Or, at least, they should do. You see, unlike ‘bad bacteria’, which can cause all sorts of problems throughout the body, probiotics can do all sorts of good, primarily because they absorb so many nutrients and play a pivotal role in converting them into energy for the body – the likes of calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium and zinc, to name just a handful of them. No wonder your body needs as many of them as possible then.

More specifically, academic studies have, in recent years, underlined the importance of probiotics to general health. For instance, a 2007 study conducted at Duke University in the United States discovered that probiotics are generated by the appendix to contribute to the fight against harmful organisms in the body, while research conducted in 2004 found that colic among infants was reduced among those who consumed them. Plus, it’s believed that around 90 percent of autistic people may experience probiotic imbalance and another recent study recorded that probiotics, owing to their effect on neurotransmitters, may even be relied on by the brain to help control emotions and mood1.

 

Fantastic Floratrex

Increasing the number of probiotics in your intestinal system and throughout your body then is of undoubted importance. The most natural way to go about this, of course, is through a sensible, balanced, healthy diet, rich in foods that are packed full of probiotics. However, it’s only fair to say that for some people, ensuring they get enough of (the right) yoghurts, kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut and dark chocolate isn’t particularly easy. Which is precisely why there’s a good number of probiotic supplements on the market – and one of the very best, not least because it’s so comprehensive, is Floratrex.

Boasting 50 billion colony forming units (CFUs; the unit that measures the viable number of fungal or bacteria cells per sample), Floratrex terrifically contributes to populating the digestive track with a vast blend of probiotics, as well as prebiotics (the food ingredients that actively induce the growth of beneficial bacteria). Developed by Dr Edward Group of the Global Healing Center, it’s a supplement that seeks to deliver customers a dynamic and large selection of good bacteria strains (as many as 23 separate ones) together in an all-in-one, full-spectrum, digestive and intestinal health probiotic formula – and it’s entirely suitable for vegetarians and vegans too. For all those reasons then, we’re only too happy to stock it at The Finchley Clinic and recognise the great supplement it is for all those looking to improve their gut flora.

 

What Floratrex can do for you

So, in a little more detail, the following are five excellent reasons why you should consider taking Floratrex:

  • Digestive support – the digestive system operates, machine-like, in a complex way, it’s aim being to convert the nutrients from the food you eat into energy for the body; probiotics plays a critical role in this process because they promote nutrient absorption, which means then, that a probiotic-packed supplement like Floratrex can be of substantial help in making sure your body develops the energy it needs and becomes and remains as healthy as possible

 

  • Improves immunity – believe it or not, that intangible-sounding entity in your body that’s the immune system majoritively resides in your gut (possibly more than 70 percent of it, in fact); this means that the intestinal tract is effectively the front-line of everyone’s immune system and, to that end, it’s probiotic levels have to be topped up to keep it in good shape

 

  • Promotes gut balance – as noted, full as it is with both ‘good’ and ‘bad’ bacteria, the gut requires as much help as it can get in ensuring the two kinds of bacteria are balanced out to keep hazardous micro-organisms at bay; Floratrex is tops, indeed, at replenishing the probiotics your gut needs for this

 

  • Magnificent mix – quite simply, one of the most advanced and comprehensive gut health supplements you’ll find anywhere, Floratrex is packed full of goodness for your gut; thanks to (yes) it’s 23 separate, hugely beneficial bacterial strains

 

In summary

Finally then, just to be clear, purchasing and regularly consuming Floratrex will enable and ensure:

  • The intestinal microbiome is boosted with 23 of the most beneficial probiotic strains

 

  • the optimisation and balancing of your intestinal flora

 

  • the aiding of nutrient absorption and synthesis of B Vitamins

 

  • the promotion of normalised digestion and the processing of hard-to-digest foods

 

  • immune system cells in the intestinal tract can be properly supported

 

  • bowel regularity is encouraged and maintained

 

  • further population of the gut flora without the need to turn to dairy, gluten, soy or wheat through an entirely vegan-friendly formula delivered via easy-to-swallow capsules.

 

Reference:

  1. Bravo J. A., Forsythe P., Chew M. V., Escaravage E., Savignac H. M., Dinan T. G., Bienenstock J. and Cryan J. F. ‘Ingestion of Lactobacillus strain regulates emotional behavior and central GABA receptor expression in a mouse via the vagus nerve’. PNAS. 2011 September. 108 (38) 16050-16055. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1102999108.

 

Optibac Probiotics, Optibac Probiotics for Babies & Children, Probiotics

The power of probiotics: what can probiotics do for you?

It might be said that many things in life are about striking a balance and keeping them in harmony. In many ways, that’s true of your health too – not least your gut health. For, individually (and especially when they’re combined), the effect of toxins, a poor diet and stress on the digestive system is to seriously imbalance its order and cause you issues and problems. Fortunately, however, to combat these malignant forces in the gut, there are probiotics.

These micro-organisms are terrific at keeping the peace in the gut; restoring balance to it by driving out harmful toxins and other organisms that are such bad news. To be specific, a probiotic is either a type of living bacteria or yeast and healthy people carry around a great number of them within their bodies all the time. Neither harmful nor pathogenic, probiotics then enjoy symbiotic relationships with the human body (on the skin and in the mouth, nostrils and gut – the latter of which is home to more than 500 of them1). And, in terms of the gut, they play an absolutely critical role in creating the all-important microbiome there, featuring varied microbiota (or microflora), helping to ensure natural digestion, reliable immunity and good mental clarity.

 

Probiotic benefits

Going into more detail on just exactly why probiotics are so critical to the body then – and why they contribute so much to keeping it in balance and maintaining your good health – the following are all benefits delivered by probiotics when consumed either via foods rich in them or supplementary products:

  • Improve response from the immune system2

 

  • Reduce negative effects of taking antibiotics, such as diarrhoea3

 

  • Reduce irritation experienced in the gut after surgery3

 

  • Contribute to better-looking complexion and skin4

 

  • Encourage easier food and drink digestion6

 

  • Positively contribute to upper respiratory health7

 

  • Ease symptoms of lactose intolerance8

 

  • Aid better yeast balance in the gut and elsewhere in the body9

 

  • Promote good vaginal health10

 

  • Enable improved absorption of nutrients from consumed food and drink11

 

  • Support natural, normal bowel movements12

 

  • May improve oral health and help reduce halitosis (bad breath)13

 

  • Aid the body in synthesising B vitamins (separating them from food and using them)14, absorbing calcium15 and producing Vitamin K16.

 

Probiotic foods

So, armed with the knowledge of all the good consuming probiotics can do for you, as you now are, you’ll be wondering what the best sources for them actually are. Well, you’d be highly advised to try and work into your diet the following as often as possible:

  • Yoghurt – famed the world over as being a food that tends to be rich in probiotics (so long as it’s the right kind of yoghurt, of course), a healthy yoghurt takes some beating here; but, as nudged at, be careful, as too many yoghurts are sugar-rich so, instead, you ought to be aiming for those that contain almond, cashew, coconut or hemp ingredients17

 

  • Kefir – like yoghurt, this is a cultured dairy drink (if you didn’t already know); in addition to being packed with probiotics, kefir also features Vitamins B12 and K, calcium, folate, magnesium, phosphorous and thiamine18

 

  • Kimchi – the great thing is that kimchi, being a traditional Korean side dish comprising fermented vegetables, features a fantastic combo of cabbage, garlic, ginger, onion, radish and red pepper, thus making it a genuine superfood; this means that it’s not just bursting with probiotics and antioxidants, but also Vitamin C, the B vitamins, beta-carotene, calcium, dietary fibre, iron and potassium19.

 

Special offer probiotics

As mentioned above, it’s possible to boost your probiotic intake through naturally-derived, organic supplements as well, so should you find it difficult to work the likes of the above probiotic-rich foods into your diet, this may well be an appealing route to go. The following – all of them currently on special offer – are available (as are more) through us at The Finchley Clinic:

Optibac Probiotics for Every Day EXTRA Strength (90 capsules) – contains 20 billion live micro-organisms in each daily dose, including five probiotic strains, ensuring it supports overall digestive health, immunity and energy.

Optibac Probiotics for Women (90 capsules) – clinically trialled by over 2,500 women, this version of Optibac Probiotics contains the micro-organisms L. rhamnosus GR-1 and L. reuteri RC-14, which may help treat thrush, cystitis, and bacterial vaginosis; safe and appropriate for women experiencing menopause, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding mothers.

Optibac Probiotics for Babies & Children (90 sachets) – ideal for children and infants (specifically for their digestion and natural defences), as well as women during pregnancy; contains three probiotics that highly important for young children’s health: acidophilus, B. infantis and bifidum.

 

References

  1. Bengmark, S. ‘Ecological control of the gastrointestinal tract.’ The role of probiotic flora Gut (1998): 42:2-7.
  2. Cunningham-Rundles S., Ahrne S. and Bengmark, S. ‘Probiotics and immune response’. Am. J. Gastroenterol (2000): 95:22–25.
  3. D’ Souza A. L., Rajkumar C., Cooke J. and Bulpitt C. J. ‘Probiotics in prevention of antibiotic associated diarrhoea: meta-analysis’. BMJ (2002): 324-1361.
  4. Stavrou G. and Kotzampassi K. ‘Gut microbiome, surgical complications and probiotics’. Ann Gastroenterol (2017): 45-53.
  5. Al-Ghazzewi, F. H. and Tester R. F. ‘Impact of prebiotics and probiotics on skin health’. Beneficial Microbes (2014): 99-107.
  6. Syngai G. G., et al. ‘Probiotics – the Versatile Functional Food Ingredients’. Journal of Food Science and Technology (2016): 921–933.
  7. Strasser B., Geiger D., Schauer M. et al. ‘Probiotic Supplements Beneficially Affect Tryptophan-Kynurenine Metabolism and Reduce the Incidence of Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in Trained Athletes: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Trial’. Nutrients. (2016): 8-11.
  8. Corgneau M., Scher J., Ritié-Pertusa L. et al. ‘Recent Advances on Lactose Intolerance: Tolerance Thresholds and Currently Available Solutions’. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. (2015).
  9. Bao Y., Al K. F., Chanyi R. M. et al. ‘Questions and challenges associated with studying the microbiome of the urinary tract’. Ann Transl Med. (2017): 5 (2): 33.
  10. Reid G. ‘The development of probiotics for women’s health’. Can J Microbiol. (2016).
  11. Krajmalnik-Brown R., Zehra-Esra I., Dae-Wook K. and Dibaise J. K. ‘Effects of Gut Microbes on Nutrient Absorption and Energy Regulation’. Nutrition in Clinical Practice 27.2 (2012): 201-14.
  12. Sebastián Domingo J. J. ‘Review of the role of probiotics in gastrointestinal diseases in adults’. Gastroenterol Hepatol. (2017).
  13. Janczarek M., Bachanek T., Mazur E. and Chałas R. ‘The role of probiotics in prevention of oral diseases’. Postepy Hig Med Dosw. (2016): 70: 850-7.
  14. Capozzi V., Russo P., Dueñas M. T., López P. and Spano G. ‘Lactic acid bacteria producing B-group vitamins: a great potential for functional cereals products’. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol. (2012). 96 (6): 1383-94.
  15. Scholz-Ahrens K. E., Ade P., Marten B. et al. ‘Prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics affect mineral absorption, bone mineral content, and bone structure’. J Nutr. (2007): 137.
  16. Zhang Y. J., Li S., Gan R. Y., Zhou T., Xu D. P. and Li H. B. ‘Impacts of gut bacteria on human health and diseases’. Int J Mol Sci. (2015): 493-519.
  17. Guinane C. M. and Cotter P. D. ‘Role of the Gut Microbiota in Health and Chronic Gastrointestinal Disease: Understanding a Hidden Metabolic Organ’. Therapeutic Advances in Gastroenterology 6.4 (2013): 295–308.
  18. Moore S. ‘Everything You Need to Know about Yogurt’. Moore Family Center Blog. Oregon State University, 2014 5 Nov.
  19. Brooks A. ‘Kimchi, the Korean Superfood’. Eat Smart Move More. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 2014 9 May.

 

Bio-Acidophilus Forte Plus, Optibac Probiotics for Babies & Children, Probiotics, Threelac

Brilliant probiotics: food and supplements full of beneficial gut bacteria

Don’t be deceived, not all bacteria’s the same; not all bacteria’s bad. Yes, bacteria gets a bad rap, but that’s the ‘bad’ bacteria, which definitely isn’t healthy when it’s consumed via food or fluids and gets into your digestive and other systems. The other kind of bacteria is the ‘good’ type, which is just the opposite – it possesses much sought-after health-giving properties; one of which is to balance out the amount of ‘bad’ bacteria in your intestines (and hopefully tip the balance in its favour).

One of the most commonly consumed forms of good bacteria is probiotics. A select number of live bacteria and yeast groups that have unquestioned health benefits, probiotics are especially prevalent in the digestive system – specifically the intestines (which is why, like their bad bacteria counterparts there, they’re referred to as ‘gut bacteria’). It’s here then where they’re healthy-do-gooding proves critical to the overall body and the wellbeing of its owner, given the fact that so many of our common-day chronic ailments actually kick-off in this part of the body. How they do is this is by stimulating the natural enzymes and processes in the gut to ensure the digestive organs keep working well; and in turn, nullifying the harmful effects of bad gut bacteria.

Probiotic Foods

So how exactly can you top up the health-enhancing live bacteria residing in your gut? Well, the ideal way is to pepper your diet with organic, probiotic-rich foods:

  •  Kefir – a fermented dairy product that features goat’s milk, along with kefir grains; it also offers Lactobacilli and bifidus bacteria, as well as terrifically health-enhancing antioxidants1
  •  Kimchi – you may never have heard of it, but the experts maintain that this Asian-cuisine pickled sauerkraut is one of the best sources for probiotics; offering a delicious spicy smack of a taste, it contains lashings of good bacteria, Vitamins B and C, beta-carotene, calcium, fibre, iron and potassium2
  •  Live-cultured yoghurt – often this kind of yoghurt made with nutrient- and protein-rich goat’s milk (especially if it’s infused with additional probiotics such as lactobacillus and acidophilus) is great for gut bacteria, not least as goat’s milk possesses lower allergenicity and tends to be easier to digest than cow’s milk3; try to avoid yoghurts that count additives among their ingredients, though
  •  Miso soup – a favourite of Japanese cuisine, this tasty concoction is derived from rice/ barley, beans and fermented rye; merely add a tablespoon of the stuff to hot water and you’ve a quick soup packed with bifidus bacteria and lactobacilli
  •  Pickled vegetables – a mainstay in Western food for centuries, the humbled pickled cucumber or onion (or practically any pickled vegetable, for that matter) offers a roster of probiotic potential5; they may take some time to prepare and be ready to eat, but if you like the taste they’re well worth the effort
  •  Sauerkraut – a German dish made from fermented cabbage, sauerkraut may not sound the most appetising, but initial impressions can be deceptive when it comes to foods and how they taste; it’s also resplendent in live cultures and Vitamins A, B, C and K
  •  Tempeh – great for vegetarians (for whom it can be a meat- of tofu-substitute), this fermented grain is derived from soybeans7 and contains lots of Vitamin B128; sauté, bake or add this low-salt foodstuff to salads.

Probiotic Supplements

Now, fair dos, should your palate be rather ‘Western’ when it comes to cuisine, then two or three of the probiotic-rich options above may not leave you salivating. How else to boost the good bacteria levels in your gut then? Well, there’s supplementation, of course – and, as ever, natural is the way to go here over synthetic supplements. The following – among many more (check the ‘Probiotics’ section on our website) – are all available via The Finchley Clinic:

ThreelacThreelac– comprises three separate forms of spore-forming lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus sporogenes, Bacillus subtilis and Streptococcus faecalis) to purge the intestinal tract of the parasitic Candida yeast and push out harmful dysbiotic microorganisms; similar to its sister product Fivelac.

 

Bio Acidophilus Forte 60 capsulesBio-Acidophilus Forte Plus – a high-strength probiotic product that contains 75 billion viable organisms per capsule, including acidophilus and bifidum in a base of fructo-oligosaccharides.

 

Optibac Probiotics EXTRA Strength 90 capsOptibac Probiotics For Every Day Extra Strength – offers 20 billion live micro-organisms per capsule, with five probiotic strains, including Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM; may well aid your digestion and immunity and boost your energy.

 

References:

1. Prado M. R. et al. ‘Milk Kefir: Composition, Microbial Cultures, Biological Activities, and Related Products’. Frontiers in Microbiology. 6: 1177. PMC. 30 Oct 2015.

2. Peacock J. ‘Kimchi, the Korean Superfood’. Eat Smart Move More. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. 9 May 2014.

3. Damunupola D. A. P. R. et al. ‘Evaluation of Quality Characteristics of Goat Milk Yogurt Incorporated with Beetroot Juice’. International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications. vol. 4, no. 10. Oct. 2014.

34. Fujisawa T. et al. ‘Effect of Miso Soup Containing Natto on the Composition and Metabolic Activity of the Human Faecal Flora’. Microbial Ecology in Health & Disease, vol. 18, no. 2. 1 June 2006.

Colds and flu, General Health & Nutrition, Green Magma, Probiotics, Winter Health

A gateway to winter illness: treating and preventing a sore throat

It’s something that automatically causes dread in people this time of year – a tickle in or at the back of the throat. The reason? Because, in so many cases, it tends to indicate an oncoming sore throat. Granted, on its own a sore throat’s usually a minor complaint, but too often it’s also a gateway to something that truly has to be endured (a cold, the flu or another type of viral infection), forcing many people to try and battle through work during the cold, dark days of winter while they feel unwell. So what can you do to treat a sore throat – and can you prevent yourself from ever getting one in the first place? Good question…

Causes and symptoms

The causes of a sore throat are many and various. In the vast majority of cases in both adults and children (as many as 95%), the reason for one developing is because of the onset of a virus like the common cold or influenza (the flu)1. Less often but occasionally, a sore throat may be caused by the likes of allergies, dry air, pollution, smoking, tonsillitis or acid reflux 2, 3.

As pointed out then, a sore throat is, of course, a symptom itself, yet owing to the fact some can be more severe than others, it can practically feel like they’re made up of their own various symptoms. For instance, you may merely experience a tickling soreness and a hoarse voice or you might have swollen glands around your throat and neck and find swallowing painful and difficult1. Moreover, you may be suffering from other symptoms in addition to a sore throat, such as congestion, a headache, a runny nose, a fever and even abdominal pain or vomiting. Obviously if you feel your sore throat’s part of something serious, you should consult a doctor – in fact, it’s advisable to do so if it alone lasts more than a week.

Natural remedies

There are several natural sore throat remedies you can turn to:

  • Drink warm beverages – they can moisten and make comfortable an inflamed, painful throat; ordinary tea is an obvious choice here but healthy green or oolong tea are excellent options too
  • Gargle salt water or try garlic – gargling warm water with half a teaspoon of salt is great for quick relief from throat pain4, or how about trying the fantastic health-giving properties of this odourless, aftertaste-free garlic?
  • Honey and black seed oil – research suggests that honey can provide relief to children’s coughs5; just a teaspoon in a drink or on its own will suffice each time and you might add to it two or three drops of black (cumin) seed oil, as it’s anti-inflammatory so ought to further aid pain relief6, 7
  • Essential oils – inhaling the vapours of myrrh8 and eucalyptus are recommended for a sore throat, as is gargling with the former; while applying two drops of Lavandula angustifolia (lavender oil) to the back of the tongue may also prove effective
  • Spices – both turmeric and ginger have been recognised for centuries for their therapeutic aspects9; as such, ginger is thought to alleviate sore throat pain, while turmeric contains the soothing component that’s curcumin (see many of the products we stock that contain turmeric and curcumin here)10.

Prevention

Finding natural resources for relief to a sore throat’s all well and good, but what about preventing one from developing in the first place? Well, you might try to limit your exposure to people whom seem to be ill and could give you one, but this isn’t always particularly practical. However, making sure to wash your hands regularly and avoiding smoking and second-hand smoke are easier achievable aims that’ll cut the likelihood of a sore throat.

Meanwhile, a failsafe way to reduce the chances of catching a cold, the flu or putting yourself at risk from sore throat-causing viruses and infections is to try and boost your body’s immunity. To that end, introducing into your diet cruciferous vegetables (such as broccoli, bok choy and cauliflower)11 and carotenoid-rich tomatoes12 comes highly advised.

Supplements

That said; it ought to be pointed out that some people have dietary constraints, so it may be best for them to boost the infection-combating Vitamins B and C in their bodies – as well as improving or maintaining their immunity – via vitamin supplements. The following are all advisable and available through us at The Finchley Clinic:

Aerobic O7 (70ml) – nascent oxygen, when taken as Aerobic O7, prompts the formation of white blood cells, which are critical in helping the body fight infections.

vitamin-c-ultra-pure

Tapioca Vitamin C (90 capsules) – contains the immune-building and infection-fighting Vitamin C.

Echinacea Cold Flu Relief (capsules) – a traditional herbal medicinal product used to relieve symptoms of the common cold and flu-type infections; can be used in combination with our Liquid Oxygen products (including Aerobic O7) and others.

 

References

1. Worrall G. J. ‘Acute Sore Throat’. Canadian Family Physician 53.11 (2007): n.pag.
2. CDC. ‘Sore throat’. Centers for Disease Control. CDC. 23 July 2015.
3. ‘Sore throat’. Medline Plus. National Library of Medicine. 21 Oct 2016.
4. ‘Strep throat’. Medline Plus. 2 Dec 2016.
5. Paul I. M. et al. ‘Effect of Honey, Dextromethorphan and No Treatment on Nocturnal Cough and Sleep Quality for Coughing Children and Their Parents’. Archives of pediatrics & adolescent medicine. 161.12 (2007): 1140–6.
6. Ali B. H. and Blunden G. ‘Pharmacological and Toxicological Properties of Nigella Sativa’. Phytotherapy Research 17.4 (2003): 299–305.
7. Padhye S., Banerjee S., Ahmad A., Mohammad R. and Sarkar F. H. ‘From Here to Eternity – the Secret of Pharaohs: Therapeutic Potential of Black Cumin Seeds and Beyond’. 6.b (n.d.) (2008): 495–510.
8. El Ashry E. S. H., Rashed N., Salama O. M. and Saleh A. ‘Components, therapeutic value and uses of myrrh’. Die Pharmazie – An International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Avoxa – Mediengruppe Deutscher Apotheker GmbH, 1 Mar. 2003.
9. Baliga M. S., Haniadka R., Pereira M. M., D’Souza J. J., Pallaty P. L., Bhat H. P. and Popuri S. ‘Update on the Chemopreventive Effects of Ginger and Its Phytochemicals’. Critical reviews in food science and nutrition. 51.6 (2011): 499–523.
10. Lim T. K. ‘Edible Medicinal and Non-Medicinal Plants: Volume 12 Modified Stems, Roots’. N.p.: Springer. 2016.
11. Veldhoen M. and Brucklacher-Waldert V. ‘Dietary Influences on Intestinal Immunity’. Nature reviews. Immunology. 12.10 (2012): 696–708.
12. Watzl B., Bub A., Brandstetter B. R. and Rechkemmer G. ‘Modulation of Human T-Lymphocyte Functions by the Consumption of Carotenoid-Rich Vegetables | British Journal of Nutrition | Cambridge Core’. British Journal of Nutrition 82.5 (1999): 383–389.

Detoxification, Latero-Flora, Oxy-Powder, Probiotics

Back down to earth with a bump: the January detox and what alcohol does to the gut and liver

If anything defines the seasonal period then it might be said to be indulgence. All that rich food, piled up on plate after plate and meal after meal. And, of course, all that alcohol too. Alcoholic consumption spikes at this time of year and, although there’s nothing wrong with having a good time and unwinding (in fact, it can obviously be good for your health), overindulging in food and drink can be very bad for your health. Especially if you do it often.

No surprise then that in January people can feel like they’ve come back down to earth with a bump and, thus, gut detoxification – or detox as it’s often known – is especially popular with them during that month. And done right; it’s far from a bad idea.

Alcohol-derived gut and liver problems

It’s widely known that excessive – or even unmoderated, regular consumption of – alcohol can cause many health problems. To be fair, there really are too many of them to cover properly in a single article like this, so let’s focus on just a few and, in particular here, one: what effect alcohol can have on what the gastrointestinal system – dysbiosis (bacterial imbalance in the gut)1.

You may not know but the gastrointestinal tract contains an entire ecosystem of bacteria, which are often referred to as gut microbiota. When we think of bacteria, we often only think of ‘bad’ harmful bacteria (the sort that are the basis of infections, for instance) and, sure, they form an amount of the microbiota in the gut, but it’s also made up of ‘good’ healthy bacteria (the sort that form the basis of probiotics that many people take to ensure good gut health). When taken together then, these microbiota are critical for successful digestion, good immunity and even mental health2.

Now, while it’s fairly widely known that an unhealthy diet rich in refined sugars and artificial additives can negatively affect this microbiota balance (tip the scales too much in favour of the ‘bad’ bacteria over the ‘good’ bacteria), too much alcohol can also contribute to this negative imbalance, upsetting and disrupting the equilibrium and intestinal environment3. In addition to dysbiosis, though, overconsumption of alcohol can lead to gut permeability – or ‘leaky gut syndrome’4.

What’s this? Well, it sees ‘bad’ bacteria escape the gut through thin membranes and into other parts of the body (bacterial translocation)3, which can lead to inflammatory issues and injuries in the liver, as well as elsewhere in the body5. And, while we’re on the subject of the liver, too much alcohol can also result in cirrhosis (scarring of the organ) and fatty liver disease (when more than 5-10% of the organ’s weight is fat)6.

How can you protect your gut from alcohol?

Before we go on, it’s probably only fair to address the fact that some experts believe alcoholic consumption, in the form of drinking red wine in moderation, is good for you and can ‘promote’ gut health, owing to it containing polyphenols (chemicals that naturally occur in plants and possess antioxidant properties)2. Indeed, a particular study suggests that red wine increases Bifidobacterium and Prevotella levels in the gut, thus lowering the levels of plasma lipopolysaccharides (an endotoxin whose presence in the intestinal tract triggers an immune response)7.

However, it’s fair to say that, in general, the less alcohol you drink the better for your body it’s going to be. So the trick is not to overconsume alcohol at any time of the year, eat a decent amount of highly healthy, green, leafy vegetables and whole, raw foods. Moreover, you might consider taking a recommended probiotic supplement to promote the growth of ‘good’ bacteria and ensure a balanced gut environment.

Supplements

Speaking of which, if you feel in need of something of a body cleanse or detox following an indulgent Christmas and/ or New Year, the following detox supplements may interest you – they’re available through The Finchley Clinic:

oxy-powder-120-capsules

Oxy-Powder (120 capsules) – a high quality oxygen based colon cleanser that helps promote friendly intestinal flora

latero-flora-60-capsules

Latero-Flora (60 capsules) – its probiotic ingredients help establish friendly colonies that contribute to good health and systemic function and support optimum digestion and helps you absorb more nutrients from food.

References

  1. Mutlu E. A., Gillevet P. M., Rangwala H., Sikaroodi M., Naqvi A., Engen P. A., Kwasny M., Lau C. K. and Keshavarzian A. ‘Colonic microbiome is altered in alcoholism’. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol. 2012 May 1; 302 (9): G966-78. doi: 10.1152/ajpgi.00380.2011.
  2. Engen P. A.; Green S. J., Voigt R. M., Forsyth C. B., and Keshavarzian A. ‘The Gastrointestinal Microbiome: Alcohol Effects on the Composition of Intestinal Microbiota’. Alcohol Res. 2015; 37(2): 223–236.
  3. Medscape. ‘Alcohol and Gut Microbiota’. medscape.com Pharmacol Ther. 2015; 41 (10): 917-927.
  4. Bode C. and Bode J. C. ‘Effect of alcohol consumption on the gut’. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2003 Aug; 17(4):575-92.
  5. Purohit V., Bode J. C., Bode C., Brenner D. A., Choudhry M. A., Hamilton F., Kang Y. J., Keshavarzian A., Rao R., Sartor R. B., Swanson C., and Turnerk J. R. ‘Alcohol, Intestinal Bacterial Growth, Intestinal Permeability to Endotoxin, and Medical Consequences’. Alcohol. 2008 Aug; 42 (5): 349–361.
  6. Alzheimer’s Association. ‘Korsakoff Syndrome’. Alzheimer’s Association. 2016.
  7. Clemente-Postigo M., Queipo-Ortuño M. I., Boto-Ordoñez M., Coin-Aragüez L., Roca-Rodriguez M. M., Delgado-Lista J., Cardona F., Andres-Lacueva C. and Tinahones F. J. ‘Effect of acute and chronic red wine consumption on lipopolysaccharide concentrations’. Am J Clin Nutr. 2013 May; 97(5):1053-61. doi: 10.3945/ajcn.112.051128.
Acid Reflux Supplements, Digestive Enzyme, Digestive Enzyme Supplements, Latero-Flora, Probiotics, Treat Acid Reflux, Vegan HCl, VeganZyme

Ease your digestion: tips to avoid acid reflux

1 Comment

In some cultures, belching during or after consuming food is perfectly acceptable; a sign that you’ve enjoyed and are satisfied by a meal. The truth is that everybody’s liable to belch at some time or another, not least after eating. However, excessive belching isn’t good; not only isn’t it particularly endearing, socially speaking, but also if – in extreme cases – it’s accompanied by heartburn and even chest pain, it could signify you’re suffering from acid reflux.

A rather violent sounding disorder, acid reflux is a long-term condition that sees stomach contents (both food and gastric acids) splash back up into the oesophagus. If experienced regularly, it could irritate and even harm the oesophagus, potentially scarring this tube between the mouth and stomach and cause ulceration, swelling or haemorrhaging. Indeed, in the worst case scenario, it could put you on the road to developing oesophegael cancer.

So what measures can you take to put an end to acid reflux? In addition to seeing a health practitioner, here are some suggestions…

Balance your HCl levels

Hydrochloric acid (HCl) may sound a bit frightening, but it’s nothing to be worried about – it’s a mineral acid combing hydrogen, chlorine and water. In fact, your body naturally produces it and should you be successful in encouraging it to create more HCl, then it could prove an important step in reducing acid reflux symptoms. In order to balance your body’s HCl level you may consider switching ordinary table salt for high-quality sea salt; moreover, you may look to supplementation for help – see at the bottom of this article.

Switch up your diet

If you want to bring on acid reflux and exacerbate its symptoms, one of the best ways to go about it is to consume lots of processed foods and sugars – this, as much as (if not more than) anything else, helps to establish and maintain bacterial imbalance in the gastrointestinal system. So how instead can you generate bacterial balance? Well, obviously cut out a lot of those processed food and sugars and try to replace them with fresh, organic fruit and veg. Again, read to the end of this post for a specific probiotic supplement – available through The Finchley Clinic – that’ll augment the good work of those dietary adjustments.

Boost your enzyme intake

Enzymes are terrific for effective digestion and occur naturally in raw food; unfortunately the act of cooking these foods destroys them and all the health-providing goodness they offer – cooking anything above 47°C is enough to do so (to give you an idea, Gas Mark 3 is approximately four times as hot as that). Obviously, nobody would suggest you shouldn’t adequately cook the food you eat, but maybe you could introduce more fresh and/ or raw food into your diet (like fruit). Also, you might like to look at the supplement possibilities in this area – once more, check the bottom of this article for our suggestion.

Further tips to treat acid reflux

  • Organic apple cider vinegar – add raw organic apple cider vinegar with four ounces of purified water (resulting in a tablespoon’s worth) and consume it before each meal; it’s not idea for easing acid reflux symptoms, calming the stomach and aiding digestion in cases of low stomach acid
  • Organic aloe vera – another soother when it comes to acid reflux, aloe vera helps calm the stomach, ease diarrhoea and relieve the redness that comes not just with acid reflux, but also bowel conditions like ulcerative colitis
  • Cleanses – if you’re constantly suffering from acid reflux (and have the time and patience), it may be a good idea to try some body cleanses, such as a colon cleanse, a liver cleanse, a harmful organism cleanse and a chemical and toxic metal cleanse.

Supplements

As noted above, there are also some acid reflux supplements you might give a go to alleviate symptoms and tackle underlying digestive issues:

BioCarbonate (90 capsules) – an alkalising complex whose carbonates help to maintain the correct pH (acidity) for efficient enzymatic activity and digestion, thus may reduce hyper-acidity in the stomach.

Marshmallow Formula (60 capsules) – contains botanical marshmallow_formulaingredients which may help maintain normal intestinal permeability; it combines well with our products for candida balancing and may also be suitable for leaky gut, food intolerance and gut inflammation issues.

latero-flora-60-capsules

Latero-Flora (60 capsules) – a probiotic that helps balance the bowel with good bacteria; it nicely complements a well-balanced, natural diet thanks to safely assisting the maintenance of beneficial micro-organism colonies to improve gut health and digestive system function, thus may help to tackle the underlying causes of acid reflux.