Lacking Energy? It May be Time for a Detox!
Eating a ‘clean’ diet for a couple of weeks allows the body an opportunity get a break from stimulants, inflammatory foods and alcohol as well as other sugary and processed foods.
Author: Neisa Baksh
Battling Colds and Allergies to Maintain a Healthy Immune System
Photo by Brittany Colette on Unsplash Do you have a cold or is it allergies? Yes, it can be confusing for us sometimes. Rik Longenecker our health professional at the West Village store location shares some light on the differences between colds and allergies. by …
Ask Rick Longenecker: Spotlight on InVite® Health Multivitamins
Written by Rick Longenecker
Why take a multivitamin?
The reasons for taking a multi are myriad. It fills in the gaps that even the best diets don’t cover. It makes it easier for the body to process foods and other supplements. The B vitamins help convert food to energy, and fight stress. The biggest objection I face is the comment that, “I eat right and exercise, so why do I need a multi?” My response is to ask a few quick questions which always expose the flaw in their thinking that they eat right, and the mere act of exercise places demands for extra nutrients that food alone won’t fill.
What should I look for in searching for a good multi?
In short, depth, breadth and bioavailability. Does it have a broad spectrum of nutrients and does it have enough to be meaningful and does it digest and absorb well. There’s a saying, “You’re not what you eat, you’re only what you can digest, absorb and use.” Good vitamins are easily broken down by the digestive enzymes.
What are the benefits?
More consistent energy, better immune health, more stable blood sugar. You don’t feel quite as exhausted at the end of a tough day/week, you catch fewer colds and the ones you do catch are less severe and your sweet/starch cravings are lessened. The challenge I throw down is to examine your energy if you run out of your multi for a week. If there is a noticeable drop in energy that’s a pretty good sign that you have a good quality multi.
Do children need a multi and is there a specific age to start?
Kids are people, too. Shortly after they’re done nursing. Two and up. Adults who supplement are healthier than those who don’t. This applies to kids, too.
How long should I take a multi and do I need to take it for the rest of my life?
Taken with a meal, your multi becomes a part of that meal. It’s a completer. The food supply is not getting better. The environmental toxic load we’re exposed to isn’t going away. This is some of the most economical health insurance you can buy.
If I’m on prescription drugs, should I be taking a multi?
The list of nutrients depleted by the many commonly prescribed drugs today is extensive. You’re not going to replenish them with food alone. A multi is the best way to offset this.
What should a multi be taken with?
Take it with your biggest meal of the day. As far as what other supplements to take it with, if every adult took a multi, fish oils, extra vitamin D and Ubiquinol, the healthcare crisis we face as a nation would be drastically reduced.
Do you take a multivitamin each day? What are some of the benefits you’ve seen?
Walk the Walk and Stay in Shape!
Photo by Jake Hills on Unsplash By Neisa M Baksh Now that spring is here and nature is in full bloom we are ready to participate in some outdoor activities! One of the most healthy and fun outdoor activities, enjoyed by all is walking. Walking …
Keep up that Energy with Foods that Increase Your Energy
Photo by Jose Soriano on Unsplash It is always a struggle to fight fatigue when you have a busy lifestyle. Start replenishing yourself with some fruits and veggies, rich in vitamins and minerals, to regain your energy levels. If you like smoothies InVite Reds Hx …
Control your Blood Pressure Levels by Jeremy Cubelo
Photo by Marcelo Leal on Unsplash
Western-style dietary habits can be a major contributor to hypertension, especially in the United States. Nutritionist, Jeremy Cubelo gave us a guide to help maintain healthy blood pressure and there are also those that should be avoided.
Foods to consider
Fish: The omega-3 fatty acids in fish, along with other nutrients, protect blood vessels from plaque, reduce inflammation, and prevent high blood pressure (HBP).
Flax Seed oil: Flaxseeds, like fish, are full of omega-3 fatty acids that shield your blood vessels from plaque.
Celery juice: A common remedy for HBP is celery juice, which can be made with a blender or a juicer. Two to three 8 oz glasses a day for a month can help prevent high blood pressure or restore it to normal. Celery stalk contains over a dozen anti-inflammatory components.
Olive oil: Has beneficial effects on blood lipids and may also lower blood pressure.
Apple cider vinegar: Vinegar alkalizes the body and lowers your blood pressure.
Cucumber: A Natural Diuretic, cucumbers help hydrate and lower the pressure in the arteries.
Skim Milk: provides Calcium and Vitamin D – two nutrients which work as a team to help reduce blood pressure.
Spinach: A great source of fiber packed with potassium, folate and magnesium. These are key ingredients to lowering and maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
Foods to avoid
Salt: Sodium has long been correlated to chronic ailments such as heart disease, HBP, and osteoporosis.
Coffee: Caffeine can cause a temporary rise in blood pressure. Caffeine can narrow blood vessels by blocking the effects of adenosine, a hormone that helps keep them dilated. Caffeine may also stimulate the adrenal gland to release more cortisol and adrenaline, which causes your blood pressure to increase.
Refined Sugar: Excess sugar ends up being stored as fat in the body, resulting in weight gain. Sugar increases blood pressure, especially in people who are overweight.
Alcohol: Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol may raise blood pressure to unhealthy levels. Alcohol also contains calories and may contribute to unwanted weight gain which is a risk factor for HBP.
Fats: Saturated fats (especially trans-fats) are bad for the heart and blood vessels. Extra strain to the circulatory system can be life-threatening. Instead, consume moderate amounts of unsaturated fatty acids (olive and canola oil)
Red Meat: too much red meat can increase cholesterol in the blood, which can increase fatty deposits in the arteries therefore resulting in HBP.
Processed Food: Most of these foods are high in salt, fats and lack essential nutrients.
Baked Goods: salt is used to bring out the sweet flavor in cookies, cakes, brownies, etc….. They also contain baking soda or baking powder which have added sodium.
What foods are you eating to regulate your blood pressure?