How & When To Take Food Supplements

how and when you should take food supplements If you’re all about supplements and giving your body some special treatment, then this blog post is just for you. There are so many different food supplements out there, but did you know that you should also pay attention to how and when you take them? This is what we’ll talk about today so let’s dig in!

About Food Supplements

Supplements are not meant to replace a healthy lifestyle, but rather designed to provide additional support to your health. Especially if you’re very active or if you don’t get all the nutrients you need from your diet.

First and foremost, you should make sure that you’re eating fruit and veggies, high quality proteins (lean meats or plant based options like tofu or beans), whole grains and of course fats like olive oil, coconut oil, nuts and seeds daily. Ideal way would be to switch up the ingredients you use – cooking with different kinds of proteins, vegetables and fruit every day to get a wide range of different nutrients from your food.

However, as much as we love to say that you should constantly eat healthy, the reality is that all of us struggle with our diet choices from time to time. If we keep our bodies deprived of nutrients for too long, it’s time to look at what supplements could help deal with these issues. And even if you do eat healthy, your body might still use some extra boost due to stress, busy work or school schedules, family life or if you travel or exercise a lot.

Of course, strictly following the instructions on any supplement bottle you consume is the number one rule. Unless your doctor has advised you otherwise. Also, we always recommend discussing a new supplement with your doctor first, especially if you have any known medical conditions and if at the same time you take any medications.

Let’s now look at different types of supplements and how these can or should be taken for best results.

Vitamins & Minerals

If you’re eating a good amount of fruit and veggies, you probably already get a decent amount of nutrients that your body needs. However, you might need to consume extra vitamins and minerals due to various reasons.

Biotin

Biotin is a water soluble B-vitamin (vitamin B7) that’s necessary for cell growth, the production of fatty acids and the metabolism of fats and amino acids. It’s great for hair, nails, skin, but also promotes healthy blood sugar levels. As Biotin is a water soluble vitamin, it’s best taken with water and/or with meals that contain lots of water like veggies and fruit. You can also take it with water on an empty stomach first thing in the morning for an additional energy boost.

Electrolytes

Electrolytes are charged nutrients in your body that are crucial for a wide range of bodily functions. It’s recommended to take additional electrolytes after exercise, illnesses, during that time of the month for women, traveling, drinking alcohol and sweating – anything that makes your body get rid of water and electrolytes.

Magnesium Glycinate

Magnesium Glycinate is great for relaxing the mind and body as it helps with muscle cramps and also supports the mood. It’s best taken with meals to avoid diarrhea; which magnesium is known to sometimes cause. For a good night’s sleep, take Magnesium Glycinate with your last meal of the day as it can make you a bit sleepy.

Selenium

Selenium is an essential trace mineral that our bodies need. It plays a key role in metabolism and other physiological functions. Selenium is best taken with a meal. Please keep in mind that with Selenium it is crucial that you do not exceed the recommended dose stated on the bottle, unless your doctor has told you otherwise.

If you use any medications, discuss supplementing with Selenium with your doctor first as they may interfere with each other. Keep in mind that trace minerals interact with each other, so taking them separately would be a good idea.

Calcium D-Glucarate

Calcium D-Glucarate is technically not a vitamin or mineral, but a calcium salt made by combining calcium and glucaric acid. It’s used to help remove waste, toxins and excess hormones from your body. Take Calcium D-Glucarate with meals for the best results.

However, taking it with other medications could potentially increase the elimination of some drugs from your body as well as reduce the effectiveness of them.

Herbal Supplements & Antioxidants

Herbal and antioxidant supplements are a great way to naturally boost your health and well being. Let’s look at how you should take them for the maximum benefits.

Berberine

Berberine is an alkaloid compound that activates an enzyme called AMPK, which is also considered as the ‘metabolic master switch’. Berberine helps balance blood sugar levels, so it is important to be cautious when also using insulin or other medications that control blood sugar. Berberine is best taken with a meal or shortly after eating, so it can take care of the blood glucose and lipid spike, which happens after you eat.

Bromelain

Bromelain is a protein-digesting enzyme that’s extremely beneficial to reduce inflammation and pain, support digestive health, promote nutrient absorption and faster recovery. Take Bromelain with meals when you use it for digestive issues. For other issues, take the supplement on an empty stomach or in between your meals.

Citrus Bergamot

Citrus Bergamot has been clinically shown to support heart health by promoting healthy cholesterol, blood sugar and triglyceride levels and supporting blood vessel function. For the best results, take it 30 minutes before a meal.

If you are also using any medications that lower blood sugar or blood pressure, ask your doctor about the interactions of Citrus Bergamot and the medications.

CoQ10

Coenzyme Q10 is a substance that your body cells use to produce energy your body needs for cell growth and maintenance. For maximum absorption, take it with a fat containing meal. You can also take it with healthy fat supplements like Pumpkin Seed Oil, Coconut Oil, Black Currant Oil, Borage Oil or MCT Oil.

Green Coffee Bean Extract

Green Coffee Bean Extract is high in chlorogenic that slows the absorption of fat from food intake and also helps activate the metabolism of extra fat. To experience the best results, take it 30 minutes before a meal with an 8 oz. glass of water, twice daily.

If you are taking any blood sugar controlling drugs as well, please consult with your healthcare professional on how to take our Green Coffee Bean Extract supplement.

Holy Basil Leaf

Holy Basil aka Tulsi is an adaptogenic herb that helps the body to adapt to physical and mental stress. This supplement is best taken with a fat containing meal or with one of our healthy fat supplements, because it contains a fat soluble vitamin K.

Lycopene

Lycopene has antioxidant properties that protect your cells from free radicals that are known to damage your DNA and make you age quicker. Lycopene, again, is a fat soluble nutrient that’s best taken with a fat containing meal and/or with one of our healthy fats.

For the men who struggle with prostate issues, taking Lycopene together with Pumpkin Seed Oil is a necessity. If you’re taking medications for lowering your cholesterol levels, please keep in mind that these medications may decrease the absorption of Lycopene in your body.

Olive Leaf Extract

Thanks to the antioxidant properties, Olive Leaf Extract helps to protect cells from oxidative damage and keep you healthy. It is best taken with meals. Consult with your doctor about supplementing with Olive Leaf Extract if you also take medications for diabetes or high blood pressure.

Organic Ceylon Cinnamon

Ceylon Cinnamon is a great natural blood sugar stabilizer, but also helps reduce inflammation in your body. For maximum results, take it half an hour before your meal with an 8 oz. glass of water.

Psyllium Husk

Psyllium Husk is widely known for its ability to improve digestion as it helps keep you regular. It is best taken before meals with at least one 8 oz. glass of water – this will also help you make you feel satisfied quicker, so you won’t eat too much.

Consuming this supplement without enough liquid may cause choking or cause uncomfortable side effects like bloating, constipation or headache. It’s also crucial to drink at least eight glasses of water throughout the day if you take Psyllium Husk.

Keep in mind that Psyllium Husk may interfere or reduce the effect of other supplements, medications or prescription drugs. We recommend taking Psyllium Husk 2 hours before or after your other medications.

Intestinal Cleanse, Lung Support and Kidney Cleanse supplements should all be taken by the recommendations stated on the supplement bottles.

Healthy Fats

Healthy fats or oil supplements are an amazing way to consume extra fatty acids that are nutrient rich and provide additional support for your health. Let’s look at some of the healthy fats and how you can benefit the most from them.

Black Currant Oil

Black Currant Oil is one of the richest sources of gamma linolenic acid, a type of omega-6 fatty acid, which plays a key role in regulating our hormones and is an effective anti-inflammatory agent. This supplement is best taken with a meal.

However, blackcurrants may slow blood clotting, so if you have issues or concerns on this matter, please consult with your doctor before taking Black Currant Oil.

MCT Oil

MCT stands for Medium Chain Triglycerides that are naturally found in coconut oil. MCT’s are much more easily and rapidly digested by your body than any other type of fat and thus offer you immediate energy and fuel. For this purpose, take MCT Oil capsules first thing in the morning (you can take it with your morning coffee for an extra kick!) or 30-60 minutes before your workouts.

PS! Start slow and build up your daily dosage as your body might not be used to metabolizing MCT-s. Otherwise, you may experience some side effects like bloating, gas or other digestive issues.

Pumpkin Seed Oil

Pumpkin Seed Oil is the holy grail of supplements that support the prostate naturally. It’s full of antioxidants and essential fatty acids that have tons of benefits for your body. Like most fatty acid supplements, Pumpkin Seed Oil is also best taken with meals for maximum absorption.

Because of its antioxidant properties, Pumpkin Seed Oil may lower your blood pressure. If you’re taking any hypertension medications, make sure to discuss the use of this supplement with your doctor first.

Borage Oil

Borage Oil is another supplement that contains tons of GLA (gamma linolenic acid). Our Borage Oil is completely hepatotoxic PA-free, so it is safe to consume on a regular basis. We recommend you take this supplement with meals, because it may irritate the stomach.

Furthemore, Borage Oil may interact with medications that are used during surgery, so about two weeks before surgery it is wise to stop supplementing with Borage Oil.

Organic Coconut Oil

And last but not least, Organic Coconut Oil is made up of lauric acid and other MCT-s, which provide support for your immune system and promote digestion. You can take Coconut Oil first thing in the morning for quick energy, or 20-30 minutes before your meals to feel full quicker and avoid overeating.

In conclusion, there are so many great supplements that you can take to support your health naturally. However, it is so important to do a little bit of research before you start supplementing with anything. Especially if you have any known medical conditions or are currently taking any medications or prescription drugs. Your health is your greatest wealth, so make sure you won’t do more harm to your body than good.

You can shop all of our natural food supplements from HERE.

What are your favorite supplements? Let us know in the comments!

Supplements To Help You Quit Smoking

natural ways to quit smoking We all know that smoking is one of the biggest risks you can impose on your health. Unfortunately, nicotine is highly addictive and a lot of smokers out there find it too difficult to quit because of the withdrawal symptoms and a severe habit.

Smoking usually starts because of seemingly innocent reasons – wanting to fit in as a teenager or a college student, not wanting to miss out socially or being stressed at work or because of difficult relationships. However, addiction will sneak up on you very easily and getting rid of it is going to be a long journey requiring some serious effort.

Nonsmokers might find it very hard to understand the addiction. In contrast, if your family member or loved one is struggling, you should keep an open mind and a calm approach, because they need all the help and support you can provide.

Increased Health Risks Of Smoking

Around 480,000 deaths in the United States are caused by smoking every year. This is 1 in every 5 deaths. Smoking causes even more deaths every year than HIV, alcohol or drug use, traffic collision injuries and firearm-related incidents all combined. (Source)

Smokers are at a much higher risk of developing heart disease like coronary heart disease, stroke, damaged blood vessels, blood clots and high blood pressure.

how to stop smoking Furthermore, smoking damages your lungs and puts you at a risk of respiratory diseases like chronic bronchitis, lung cancer, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Sad fact: smokers are about 12 times more likely to die from COPD than nonsmokers.

And of course the most feared disease of them all – cancer. Not only does smoking increase the risk of developing lung cancer by 25 times, it can cause cancer in almost all parts of your body.

It’s especially important to quit smoking if you’re a woman. Not only when you’re pregnant, but also when you’re already trying to conceive. If you’re a smoker, you’re at a higher risk of developing different issues like premature birth, ectopic pregnancy, membrane ruptures and an early separation of placenta.

You’re also more likely to have a miscarriage, stillbirth and at a higher risk of birth defects and sudden infant death syndrome. Keep you and your (future) baby safe and seriously consider all of the risks associated with smoking.

How To Quit Smoking & Treat Withdrawal Symptoms

Nicotine addiction is both physical and mental. Pulling through the physical withdrawal symptoms requires a very strong mindset. Nevertheless, the longer you’ve steered away from cigarettes, the easier it will get to manage those cravings and over time your withdrawal symptoms will get smaller and smaller.

Exercise

If you’ve developed a strong smoking habit, it will be very hard to figure out ways to do with that time instead. Try to get your mind off of smoking as much as possible. Studies have shown that all types of exercise (from yoga and Pilates to HIIT workouts) have positive effects on reducing your cravings to smoke.

Not only are you keeping yourself occupied, you’re actively helping your body to get rid of the toxins you’ve put in it. You’ll also feel that you’re not out of breath every time when taking the stairs or running to catch the bus, because your body is getting used to the physical activity.

If you’re used to having a cigarette after a meal, when driving your car or drinking coffee or alcohol, it is extremely important for you to replace your smoking habit with a healthier one. Try walking up and down the stairs for around 5 minutes, or go for a quick walk. This helps to distract your mind, reduce cravings and also get in a small workout!

Another tip is to practice deep breathing whenever you feel a craving. Some studies have shown that if you do it every 30 minutes, you’ll feel less cravings to smoke and it helps you manage withdrawal symptoms like irritability and anxiety.

Diet & Supplements

Healthy and balanced diet is extremely important if you’re trying to quit. Smoking reduces the amount of nutrients in your body, which in the long run can be very dangerous.

Fun fact: Meat can make cigarettes taste better. On the other hand, fruits and vegetables make cigarettes taste a lot worse, so try incorporating more fresh foods into your diet.

Adding foods high in antioxidants to your diet is crucial. Antioxidants help fight free radicals and prevent further cell damage in your body. Cell damage leads to premature aging, but also makes your body more susceptible to harmful cell growth. You should also eat plenty of foods containing vitamin C like bell peppers, citrus fruits, tomatoes, blackcurrants and more.

Some of the foods that contain high levels of antioxidants are dark leafy greens, blueberries, carrots, eggplant, broccoli and many more. You can also add high antioxidant supplements to your diet like CoQ10, Black Currant Oil, Lycopene, Borage Oil, Olive Leaf Extract or Organic Ceylon Cinnamon to boost your healing process even more. These supplements will help prevent DNA damage and give your body lots of nutrients.

Tip: If you feel that drinking coffee is a huge trigger for you, try replacing it with green tea. It’s high in antioxidants, makes your metabolism work faster and gives you energy!

Another great supplement is our Lung Support 30-day detox program. It’s designed to help cleanse your lungs from waste caused by smoking, environmental toxins and air pollution. In addition, it helps reduxe inflammation and production of mucus. Say hello to comfortable breathing again!

Furthermore, as we already mentioned, smoking puts you at a much higher risk of developing heart disease. If you already struggle with any, supplementing with high quality Citrus Bergamot, Berberine, Organic Ceylon Cinnamon or CoQ10 will help protect your heart.

But what about stress, anxiety and irritability? Our Holy Basil will take care of all that. Also, take Magnesium Glycinate to help manage stress even better and get a good night’s sleep. These are also great if you’ve started doing more exercise after quitting – they help your body adapt to stress and Magnesium (but also Electrolytes!) will help reduce muscle soreness and promote recovery.

To get rid of the mucus and coughs that might’ve been worrying you, supplementing with Bromelain is a great way to naturally cleanse your body and reduce inflammation.

And if you’re feeling tired all the time (this is a common withdrawal symptom!), start your day by taking a few MCT Oil capsules. These will give you instant energy, because those fatty acids will be immediately burned for energy and not stored as fat.

Likewise, there are plenty of small tricks to get you off of cigarettes. Download an app where you can track all the money you’ve saved since you quit, and track the days for how long you’ve been cigarette free. Try to pay more attention to what’s around you and enjoy life without the need to smoke cigarettes.

To conclude, nicotine addiction is a serious issue and should not be taken lightly. Make the decision to quit now and use everything in your hand to get rid of it. You and your loved ones will all win. The trick is to be positive, make a proper plan (and stick to it!) and remove all tobacco products from your life.

If you have quit smoking successfully, share your best tips and tricks in the comments!

Berberine: AMPK aka “Metabolic Master Switch” Activator

Berberine acts as an AMPK activator, an enzyme found in your body’s cells. It’s sometimes called a “metabolic master switch” because it plays an important role in regulating your metabolism.

So why is that a good thing and how does it work?

Let’s dig in and find out!

First, What is Berberine?

Berberine is a yellow-colored alkaloid compound found in various plants. Some of these plants are barberry, tree turmeric, Oregon-grape, goldenseal and yellowroot. It has reached us from Asia, where it has been used in Ayurvedic medicine and in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.

Fun Fact: Because of its strong yellow color, berberine has even been used as a natural wool, leather and wood dye.

What Is Berberine Used For?

Berberine affects your body at the molecular level and functions inside cells, having many benefits for different health problems. However, one of the main functions is activating an important enzyme called AMPK, which regulates metabolism.

Berberine benefits your health in many different ways. It is most commonly used as a natural way to support healthy blood sugar levels. This means that it can also be a great supplement for weight loss, because healthy and stable blood sugar levels is essential for weight loss and for maintaining healthy weight. It also supports your cardiovascular health by promoting healthy cholesterol and lipid levels.

What is AMPK and Why It Should Be Active?

AMPK stands for AMP-activated protein kinase or adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase. It’s an enzyme inside your body’s cells that has an important role to play in regulating your metabolism. When AMPK is activated, it stimulates your body’s energy generating processes. As a result, your metabolism speeds up and your body burns fat. (Source)

We all have AMPK in our bodies, but sometimes it’s not fully activated. In humans and rodents, vigorous exercise can be an AMPK activator (Source). Also with a healthy, calorie-controlled diet you can jump-start your AMPK activity. But as we know by now, berberine is widely used as a natural AMPK activator supplement. Berberine activates AMPK in multiple different cell types, thus improving insulin sensitivity (Source).

Furthermore, studies suggest that berberine can be a helpful way to prevent obesity and type II diabetes, reduce body weight and lipid levels, and improve insulin sensitivity by activating AMPK (Source). This is because AMPK activity attributes in glucose and lipid homeostasis, your weight and food intake, insulin signaling and mitochondrial biogenesis (Source).

The most common form of Berberine used in studies is berberine HCl that has shown to be absorbed better by your body than other forms. This is why we use berberine HCl in our Berberine supplement as well.

In conclusion, several studies have shown that berberine has a role in activating the enzyme AMPK and what health benefits it can provide. Click here to read more about our Berberine supplement and get yours today!

Here are a few Berberine reviews from our happy customers on Amazon:

“After I started taking berberine, my blood sugar levels dropped from borderline high to the middle of the normal range. My doctor is happy and so am I. This is a good product at a reasonable price. I will definitely purchase again.”

– K. Arnett

“It’s the best one I’ve used so far. I like the higher dosage. I’ve actually lost weight on this!”

– Kimberly Z.

“Love this product! It delivers and helped lower my A1C yet again. So pleased AMAZON carries this product. Thank you for a great product!”

– L. Ramirez

“Product works for me. My nutrionist recommended it as a supplement to aid with carbs and glucose levels. Will buy again. Easy on stomach and no side affects for me.”

– J. R.

“This product is great. It has helped to lower my AIC. My son is taking the Berberine. He commented that it is not only helping him to feel better, he is losing weight. I would not hesitate to buy this product again. I highly recommend it to lower you glucose level.”

– A. C.

Category Archives: Berberine