What is Collagen and How Can It Benefit You?

Let's talk about spirulina. This bright green powder is an amazing superfood full of vitamins and nutrients that benefit the body in so many ways. What is it? Spirulina is a type of algae (cyanobacteria, or glue-green algae) that grows in fresh and salt water. The Ancient Aztecs consumed spirulina, and it continues to be used today - even by NASA astronauts in space! How to consume it? We recommend adding about 1 tsp of powder to your beverage of choice - it's a great smoothie ingredient. Or, you can also get it in tablet form. Here are some of the studied benefits of spirulina: Rich in nutrients. One tablespoon of spirulina contains 4g of protein (essential amino acids), 14% daily value of thiamin, 20% daily value of riboflavin, 6% daily value of niacin, 47% daily value of copper, and 11% daily value of iron. Plus smaller amounts of magnesium, potassium, and manganese. Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory properties. Phycocyanin, the the main component of spirulina, is an antioxidant that helps fight oxidative stress. It blocks the production of molecules that cause inflammation. Lowers cholesterol. Studies on spirulina have found it can help lower total cholesterol, LDL (bad cholesterol), and triglycerides - while increasing HDL (good cholesterol). Anti-Cancer properties. While research is still ongoing, some studies suggest that spirulina has anti-cancer properties. The aforementioned antioxidants in spirulina help neutralize free radicals, which are highly reactive chemicals with the potential to cause harm (including the development of cancer and other health conditions). Research in animals has found that spirulina may help reduce cancer occurrence and tumor size in various cancers. Reduce Blood Pressure. A scientific review of five studies found that taking 1-8g of spirulina per day could significantly reduce blood pressure (both systolic and diastolic), especially in those with existing high blood pressure. It is thought to be due to increased nitric oxide production which helps your blood vessels relax and dilate. Improves Allergy Symptoms. Many individuals find spirulina helpful for treating their seasonal allergy symptoms like a stuffy nose. Recent studies have found spirulina to be more effective than over the counter antihistamine medications in improving seasonal allergy symptoms and decreasing inflammation. Anemia and Iron Deficiency . Recent studies have found spirulina to improve anemia in pregnant people during their second trimester, as well as improving iron deficiency in young children. Spirulina is generally considered safe for pregnant people and children - but it is best to check with your doctor first. Muscle Strength & Endurance. Many athletes find spirulina improves their muscle strength and recovery after workouts. During exercise, we experience oxidative stress. As mentioned, antioxidants in spirulina help counteract this stress. Another study found that spirulina improved oxygen uptake during exercise, which could help enhance athletic performance. All in all, spirulina is a super nutritious ingredient to integrate into your diet. There are many simple ways to include it such as smoothies and green juices, energy balls , green powders, and supplements. We have lots of great options in store, including Certified Organic options.

These suggestions are not intended to replace professional advice. Please check labels and consult your pharmacist if you take medication. Anyone who has had chickenpox carries the virus that can manifests later as shingles. The virus lies dormant at the base of nerve cell clusters and reactivates when you experience a trigger – nutritional deficiencies, illness, trauma/stress, or injury, all resulting in excess free radical activity. Cells damaged by free radicals are susceptible to being hijacked by the virus. The first important step is a diet rich in nutrients and antioxidants. Dietary Suggestions Stay well hydrated. Drink 7-10 glasses of filtered or spring water. Consume a diet that is 75-80% alkaline forming . Acidity increases free radical production. Go organic. Pesticides and chemicals also cause cellular damage. Fresh fruits and vegetables are high in antioxidants that protect cells from free radical damage. Until viral activity is resolved, minimize foods high in arginine which promotes growth of the virus – carob, chocolate, coconut, dairy, meat, oats, peanuts, soybeans, walnuts, and all wheat products. Take 1-2 tsp of apple cider vinegar in water with meals to improve digestion and correct pH. Supplements - to correct common deficiencies Bio-Strath – provides B vitamins, decreases stress, corrects pH provides nourishment for the entire nervous system. B12 fortifies the nervous system and improves recovery. Vitamin C – 1,000 mg – helps combat viral outbreaks, promotes healing. Vitamin D – anti-inflammatory, antiviral. Magnesium – activates vitamin D – necessary for absorption of other nutrients, relieves tension and promotes better sleep. Probiotic – prevents overgrowth of harmful organisms. Special Care for Shingles L-lysine - boosts immune response to herpes zoster virus, speeds healing of damaged tissue, promotes a sense of well-being. Oil of oregano – a powerful antiviral and antioxidant – eliminates toxins and reduces free radical activity. Can be used topically to reduce itching and promote healing. Dilute with another oil to avoid irritation. Homeopathic remedies can help with acute symptoms. Apis, Arsenicum, and Rhus Tox have been used with good result. Ask a staff member to help you select the appropriate remedy. An important part of the healing process is fresh air and gentle exercise. Your body needs a good supply oxygen and sunshine. Breathe deeply! Remember the best six doctors: Sunshine, fresh air, water, rest, exercise and diet 😊 *Revised September 2024

A few years ago we posted a blog on 'Why Organic Matters', discussing what organic means, why we primarily carry Certified Organic produce in our stores, why it can cost more, and the dangers of pesticides found on traditional produce. You can read it here. And while everything in that blog post still rings true to us, we wanted to give a refresher and an update on why choosing Certified Organic is so important - especially with it being Organic Month. And, the body of research and information around organic farming continues to grow each year. So, let's get into it! Let's recap the meaning of organic. Pro-Cert, one of the top organic certification agencies has this to say about organic: “Organic is a claim referring to methods of agricultural production and food processing that minimizes disruption of the natural environment and encourages the health and vitality of the soil, promotes humane animal management and preserves ecological integrity.” Organic standards are extremely stringent, and must be followed in order to earn certification. There are 4 general principles: Principle of Health: Organic agriculture should sustain and enhance the health of soil, plants, animals, humans and the planet as one and indivisible. Principle of Ecology: Organic agriculture should be based on living ecological systems and cycles, work with them, emulate them and help sustain them. Principle of Care: Organic agriculture should be managed in a precautionary and responsible manner to protect the health and well-being of current and future generations and the environment. Principle of fairness: Organic agriculture should build on relationships that ensure fairness with regard to the common environment and life opportunities. Organic regulations include, but are not limited to: • No synthetic pesticides • No synthetic preservatives • No chemical fertilizers • No hormones or antibiotics • No genetically modified organisms (GMO’s) • Humane treatment of animals • Preservation of ecological integrity such as nutrients in soil and protection of wildlife Organic farms are inspected annually to ensure these practices are being upheld. The Big Question: Do Pesticides Really Harm Your Health? The short answer is, yes. There is a growing body of research and evidence that continues to show the harmful effects that pesticides can have on our health. When we say 'pesticides' we include under this umbrella synthetic (chemical) fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, and disinfectants. Let's take a deeper look: Elevated Risk of Cancer: According to the PAN (Pesticide Action Network), many pesticides are known or probably carcinogens. Children are especially at risk of developing cancer from pesticide exposure and childhood cancer rates continue to rise. A 2020 study found an elevated risk of cancer (leukemia) in children who's mothers were exposed to pesticides during pregnancy. Farmers and farm workers are more exposed to pesticides than the general population, experiencing high rates of prostate cancer, ovarian cancer, and skin cancer. Disrupted Hormones: Many pesticides are known endocrine disruptors , meaning they interfere with the body's hormones and lead to further health issues related to growth, fertility, metabolism, and more. The Endocrine Society (the largest international group of scientists and doctors working in endocrinology) lists many pesticides including PCBs, dioxins, DDT, arsenic, perfluorinated compounds, chlorpyrifos, vinclozolin, and more as endocrine disruptors. They note that exposure to these chemicals can come through oral consumption of contaminated food or water, pesticide residue in food or beverages, contaminated ground water and soil, and pesticides used in agriculture. Endocrine disruptors can cause reproductive issues in men and women, neurological issues in children and adults, and metabolic and thyroid problems. Children's Health: The most concerning impact that pesticides can have is on our children. Because infants' and childrens' immune, nervous, and endocrine systems are still developing, they are at higher risk of experiencing the harmful effects of pesticides. The threat to children's health have been known as early as 30 years ago, when a landmark study was published by the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine. Even low levels of pesticide exposure can negatively impact the neurological and behavioural development of children due to their effect on neurotransmitters. A 2014 review found a link between pesticides and neonatal reflexes, psychomotor and mental development, and ADHD. Additional Studies: Parkinson's Disease - A 2017 study found a connection between pesticides and an increased risk of Parkinson's disease. Alzheimer's Disease - A meta-analysis of 7 studies found that pesticide exposure may be linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. Baby Food - A 2023 EWG study found that 38% of traditional baby food samples contained pesticides, compared to 0% in Organic samples. Moreover, not only do synthetic pesticides stick to soft skins of fruits and vegetables, but they are taken up by the plan't root system and seep into the produce's flesh - which cannot be washed off. In 2024, An Environmental Working Group study (from FDA and Department of Agriculture data of 47,510 samples of 46 fruits and vegetables) found that 75% of all conventional fresh produce sampled had residues of potentially harmful pesticides. And in the Dirty Dozen? 95%.

We have had some questions lately from customers about Magnesium Stearate. What is it? Where does it come from? Why and where is it used? And most importantly, is it safe? Let's dive in. What is Magnesium Stearate? Magnesium Stearate is a simple salt made of two common nutritional substances: magnesium (mineral) and stearic acid (a kind of saturated fat). The two are bound together to create magnesium stearate. Magnesium is most commonly found in nuts and seeds. Stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid found in many foods such as eggs, chicken, grass-fed beef, coconut oil, walnuts, cheese, salmon, and even human breast milk. Where and Why is it Used? Magnesium Stearate is used as a 'flow agent', lubricant, binder, or anti-caking agent in the production of many nutritional supplements and pharmaceuticals. In supplement and pharmaceutical production, it helps ensure consistency and quality control. Without it, the encapsulation machinery can jam up and potentially cause differences in the amount of active ingredients in each capsule. Magnesium stearate can also be used to delay breakdown and absorption of medications, so they’re absorbed in the correct area of the bowel. In foods, it can be found in a variety of products such as milk and cheese products, breakfast cereals, candy, baby formulas, vinegars, prepared foods, and others. In foods, it is an emulsifier, helping ingredients bind to one another. Is it Safe? The short answer is yes, in moderation. We have had customers express concerns that magnesium stearate has been linked to suppressed immune T-cell function - but there is no human data to support this. Magnesium stearate is an FDA & Health Canada approved product and it is rated “Low Risk” in all categories by the Environmental Working Group. The National Center for Biotechnology Information considers it safe for consumption at amounts BELOW 2,500 milligrams per kilogram per day (170,000 mg per day for a 150lb adult). Adults in North America typically only consume 7,000mg per day. How much stearic acid is generally found in supplements? Between 0.25 and 3%. Meaning if you took 20 500mg supplements containing 1% magnesium stearate per day, you would only be consuming around 96mg - WAY under the daily limit! If too much magnesium stearate is ingested, it can have a laxative effect which can cause bowel spasms. Research shows that pharmaceuticals can contain 0.15 - 5% magnesium stearate, whereas supplements contain 0.25 - 3%. Therefore, some pharmaceutical medications that contain higher percentages of magnesium stearate (especially if they are taken multiple times a day), may cause gastric upset. Sources: National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements: Magnesium. http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Magnesium-HealthProfessional/ USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 24. Tebbey PW, Buttke TM. Molecular basis for the immunosuppressive action of stearic acid on T cells. Immunology. 1990 Jul;70(3):379-84. PMID: 2379942 Food and Drug Administration, Select Committee on GRAS Substances (SCOGS) Opinion: Magnesium stearate, accessed Sept. 10, 2012. www.fda.gov/Food/FoodIngredientsPackaging/ GenerallyRecognizedasSafeGRAS/ GRASSubstancesSCOGSDatabase/ucm260466.htm https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/food-nutrition/food-safety/food-additives/lists-permitted/1-anticaking-agents.html https://www.purelabvitamins.com/blog/Magnesium-Stearate-Safety-and-Efficacy.php https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/703708-MAGNESIUM_STEARATE/