Our pets are like family. And like our family, we want to make sure they live long happy lives. So during this month of love, take some time to show your pet some extra love and consider adding pet supplements to assist your pet's life on a daily basis.
Providing Extra Support Through Standard Process Pet Supplements
From sore muscles and immune support to mobility and more, Standard Process pet supplements can get your dogs, cats and horses back to feeling like puppies, kittens and ponies.
Dog Supplements for Man's Best Friend
No matter what stage your four legged friend is in, we carry a variety of dog supplements to help deliver the nutrition they need for optimal health. Such supplements include:
Cat Supplements for Your Furry Feline
For the sensitive feline in your life, we offer cat supplements to help maintain a healthy lifestyle and get the daily nutrients they need. Some supplements we carry, include:
Horse Supplements for the Noble Steed
Whether you ride your horse for leisure or for competitions, you want to make sure they are feeling, looking and doing their best. Get your horse into it's best shape with the some of the following horse supplements:
Your Guru for Pet Supplements
Looking to give your pet more pep in their step? It may be time to look into adding Standard Process supplements to your pet's diet. Talk to your veterinarian about getting started today.
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Dr. Robert Powell, The “Wholefood Guru”
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Wholefood Guru is an authorized online distributor of Standard Process health products.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
]]>Whether you're a twice-a-day gym rat or are are working on a regular exercise routine to get back to a healthy weight, adding athletic supplements to your day may help maintain your athletic abilities as you work on your healthy New Year's resolution.
Standard Process Athlete Support Supplements
As you continue working on your healthy resolution, take a look at these Standard Process supplements and determine which one, or combination, may work best for your goals.
Your Guru for Athlete Support
Don't try to get through your resolution on working out alone. Consider adding Standard Process vitamins for athletes to your routine. Learn more about which supplements may work best for you by talking to your doctor or browsing through our available athlete support products today.
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Dr. Robert Powell, The “Wholefood Guru”
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Wholefood Guru is an authorized online distributor of Standard Process health products.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
]]>January: The time to start something new; to start over and refresh. So why not take this New Year to try one of Standard Process’ purification or body detox programs?
The process of purification and detoxification removes toxins from the body and helps maintain a healthy weight. Along with exercise and conscientious eating habits, these programs can help aid your body’s natural detoxification process. Better yet, they are also gluten-free!
Depending on your preferred choice of fiber and protein, Standard Process has eight kits from you to choose from:
The Standard Process 21-Day Purification Programs
These programs not only cleanse your body, but help you structure a healthy lifestyle. Throughout these 21 days, you’ll follow this Patient’s Purification Guide that comes with each kit below to help you stay on track.
The Standard Process Detox Programs
These metabolic detoxification kits are designed to provide additional nutrient support as you detox your body.
Additional Products
Looking for additional ways to support detoxing your body naturally? Check out these other Standard Process products:
Your Body Detox & Purification Guru
Are you interested in starting the New Year with a clean slate? Browse Standard Process’ purification and detox programs today! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor to determine which program may work best for you.
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Dr. Robert Powell, The “Wholefood Guru”
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Wholefood Guru is an authorized online distributor of Standard Process health products.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
]]>Ham, rolls, carrots, and – of course – desserts. Not only are the holidays a time to reflect and remember how grateful we are, but it is also a time to enjoy large, delicious feasts.
Food can affect everyone’s gastrointestinal system differently, which is why Wholefood Guru offers Standard Process supplements and vitamins to help with your digestive health.
Supplements to Help with Digestion
From protein digestion and bowel regularity to gallbladder function and intestinal pH, Standard Process carries a variety of products to help with digestion distress.
Don’t let good food ruin your holiday! Consider adding Standard Process vitamins and supplements to your shopping list to help your gastrointestinal health this holiday season and talk to your GI doctor today.
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Dr. Robert Powell, The “Wholefood Guru”
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Wholefood Guru is an authorized online distributor of Standard Process health products.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
]]>As the sun disappears more quickly and the cool air begins to stick around, your body will start to lose key nutrients that come naturally in the summertime. This is when the common cold and other illnesses begin to takeover.
So how do you prepare for cold and flu season? Aside from washing your hands and staying away from those who are already sick, you should consider taking supplements to boost your immune system.
Supplements for a Healthy Immune System
Brought to you by Standard Process, the following supplements are designed to help you maintain a healthy immune system all year round:
For overall support, this supplement contains ribonucleic acid (which is used for protein synthesis) and antioxidant vitamin A. This supplement also comes in a chewable form.
This supplement is a vegan immune system support supplement that also supports respiratory health and healthy white blood count. It also contains zinc and vitamin C.
If you’re looking for a daily supplement, this one contains zinc, iron, copper, chromium, folate, as well as various vitamins and antioxidant vitamins. This supplement also provides selenium.
Along with immune support, this supplement also supports bone, skin and connective tissue health.
To enhance your immune system function, this is a combination of roots of Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea angustifolia. This supplement can also relieve a dry or hoarse throat and support the upper respiratory tract.
These herbs support your nose, healthy breathing passages and outer ocular health.
Containing Astragalus, Eleuthero and Echinacea purpurea root, these herbs focus on adaptogenic immune system support.
Your Guru Throughout Cold and Flu Season
No one likes to get sick, so get your body ready before flu and cold season sets in. Talk to your doctor about Standard Process supplements to help your immune system or browse through our available immune system health products today!
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Dr. Robert Powell, The “Wholefood Guru”
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Wholefood Guru is an authorized online distributor of Standard Process health products.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
]]>From menstrual cycles and pregnancy for some to menopause and every stage in between, a lot happens in the world of women’s health. Alongside exercising and eating right, taking natural supplements dedicated to women’s health may also help.
Standard Process Supplements for Women’s Health from Wholefood Guru
For every stage in a woman’s life, we have supplements to help overcome symptoms and help maintain a healthy lifestyle through it all.
Menstrual Cycle Supplements
Bleeding, cramping, bloating, hormones – a woman’s menstrual cycle causes a huge disruption every month on their bodies. Check out our supplements that can help with your period symptoms.
Conception Supplements
Whether a woman is taking birth control orally, has an IUD or is using another type of contraceptive, it’s important to find vitamins and supplements to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Pregnancy Supplements
From trying to get pregnant to going into labor, pregnancy can also take a toll on a woman – emotionally, mentally, and physically. Some supplements to consider taking during pregnancy may include:
At this stage in life, it’s important for a woman to find ways to maintain a healthy body and mind. Some of our supplements that can help include:
Get a closer look at how our supplements can help ease menopause symptoms.
Your Guru for Women's Health
It’s never too late to start building a healthy lifestyle and the first step may be looking into adding natural supplements to your daily routine. Talk to your doctor and ask them about women’s health supplements available from Standard Process or browse through our available women's health products today!
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Dr. Robert Powell, The “Wholefood Guru”
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Wholefood Guru is an authorized online distributor of Standard Process health products.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
]]>Just like a cat, dog and even yourself, if your horse is suffering in certain areas of their lifestyle, you may want to consider looking into adding supplements to their diet. Horse supplements provide the vitamins, vegetables and other key ingredients to help keep your horse in peak performance shape and living its best life.
Standard Process Equine Formulas from Wholefood Guru
Find a supplement for each area your horse may need assistance in from our Standard Process Equine Formulas below:
From daily riding to competitions, it’s natural that your horse’s joints are starting to deteriorate. Give their joints an extra boost with our Standard Process horse joint supplements.
No one enjoys allergy season, including your horse. Build up and maintain their immune system with our Standard Process immune support supplement.
Is your horse’s weight affecting its performance or overall lifestyle? Consider our Standard Process horse supplements for weight gain to help maintain their weight and get them back on track.
Between traveling and intense training, your horse may show signs of stress and the obvious muscle soreness. Pack up these Standard Process horse performance supplements to help get your horse’s body and brain back in focus-mode.
Have you seen a change in your horse’s behavior and/or eating patterns lately? There may be an issue with their gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Look into our Standard Process GI Support supplement.
Just like a cat, dog and even yourself, if your horse is suffering in certain areas of their lifestyle, you may want to consider looking into adding supplements to their diet. Horse supplements provide the vitamins, vegetables and other key ingredients to help keep your horse in peak performance shape and living its best life.
Your Horse Supplement Guru
No matter what your horse is going through, we can help! Talk to your vet and ask them about Standard Process' horse supplements available from Wholefood Guru or browse through our available horse supplement products today!
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Dr. Robert Powell, The “Wholefood Guru”
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Wholefood Guru is an authorized online distributor of Standard Process health products.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
]]>Heart disease is the number one killer of people worldwide. It’s especially formidable for women as it causes more deaths every year than all forms of cancer combined.
Almost half of all US adults have some level of cardiovascular disease. More than 1/3 have been diagnosed with high blood pressure. This puts them at higher risk for heart disease and becoming a stroke victim or having a heart attack. Staggering statistics!
Why are we bringing up these frightening statistics? Because YOU have the power to take control of your overall health and heart health. But you must be willing to make changes in your daily life.
Health Supplements
Your cardiovascular system plays a central role in everyday activities like exercise, stress regulation, and temperature control. Standard Process cardiovascular health supplements are nutrient-dense, whole food-based, and have herbal ingredients that work synergistically to support a healthy heart, blood flow, and the body’s natural inflammatory response.
Cardio-Plus® & Cardio Plus® GF
Both Cardio-Plus® and Cardio-Plus® GF are heart supplements that help support heart and cardiovascular health.* Both supplements are Non-Dairy, Non-Soy and GF is Gluten Free. These supplements:
The active ingredients in our Hawthorn supplement are Hawthorn leaf and flower (223mg). This supplement:
Caution: Not to be used during pregnancy and lactation unless otherwise directed by a qualified health care professional. For other contraindications and cautions, please refer to the Potential Herb-Drug Interactions Chart. The chart can be found here: Potential Herb-Drug Interactions Chart
Diet & Sleep
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra olive oil or nuts was shown to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death from cardiovascular causes by around 30%. These statistics are equally valid for those at high risk for cardiovascular disease.
The FDA states that adults should get at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night. However, depending on your level of stress, health issues, long work hours, etc., you may not get the deep sleep you need.
Here are some things you can do to get a better night’s sleep:
If you have a sleep disorder, definitely schedule a visit to your doctor.
Keeping your cardiovascular system healthy is a must since it is responsible for circulating blood, oxygen and nutrients throughout your body. It takes time and effort, but you will be surprised by all the positive results.
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Dr. Robert Powell, The “Wholefood Guru”
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Wholefood Guru is an authorized online distributor of Standard Process health products.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Sources
https://aanmc.org/featured-articles/heart-health/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29897866/
https://www.fda.gov/media/122967/download?attachment
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As health-conscious individuals continue to prioritize natural and holistic approaches to wellness, Standard Process products continue to rise in popularity. From immune support to stress management and more, SP supplements have garnered popularity for their efficacy, purity, and ability to harness the power of nature to support optimal well-being.
Are you curious to know which five Standard Process whole food supplements have been our most popular sellers so far in 2023? With the year being a little over half over, we thought now would be a good time to check into this ourselves and share the results! Join us as we delve into the latest trends and discover the favorites among health enthusiasts for this year's supplement choices.
The following are our top 5 selling products for the first half of 2023, in order of popularity:
#1 - Thytrophin PMG®
The thyroid produces two hormones that regulate metabolism and affect nearly every system in your body. So when the thyroid is sluggish and doesn’t produce enough hormone, it's called hypothyroidism. Thytrophin PMG® is a bovine (cow) thyroid supplement designed to support healthy thyroid function in humans by providing a unique profile of minerals, nucleotides, and peptides.*
#2 - Ashwagandha Forte
The Ashwagandha root has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. In Ashwagandha Forte it’s used to help lower stress, improve immune system strength, and cognitive function.*
Ashwagandha Forte, from Standard Process, is a single-ingredient preparation of Withania somnifera, aka ‘Ashwagandha.’ Each tablet is standardized to contain 10 mg of withanolides (the active component in this herb.)
Caution: Not to be used during pregnancy and lactation unless otherwise directed by a qualified health care professional. If you have a thyroid condition, use strictly under physician direction. For other contraindications and cautions consult your health care professional. Keep out of reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
For other contraindications and cautions, please refer to the Potential Herb-Drug Interactions Chart. The chart can be found here: Potential Herb-Drug Interactions Chart
#3 - Symplex F®
Symplex F® is a dietary supplement that focuses on women’s overall health. This supplement contains a proprietary Protomorphogen™ (PMG) blend of nucleotides and peptides from bovine ovary plus adrenal, pituitary, and thyroid glands.
#4 - Orchex®
Orchex® combines several nutrients including niacin and vitamin B6 to promote central nervous system balance.* It features ingredients like bovine ochiric Cytosol to provide help for people suffering emotional imbalances. The only negative is that vegetarians and vegans can’t use this product due to the presence of animal extracts.
Components in Orchex® have been tested and reported to have positive effects. Also, there are no side effects either with short- or long-term use.
#5 - Zypan®
Zypan® contains pancreatin, which is coated in stearic acid so it’s digested in the correct area of the digestive tract. Pancreatin helps break down food and convert it into energy. Pepsin helps digest the proteins in food, while betaine hydrochloride can help some stomach conditions, including diarrhea, increasing stomach acid for those who produce too little, and maintaining proper gastric pH. These three ingredients work together to assist with healthy digestion.*
Note: Chewing this product is not recommended.
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Dr. Robert Powell, The “Wholefood Guru”
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Wholefood Guru is an authorized online distributor of Standard Process health products.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Sources
https://healthfully.com/bovine-vs-herbal-thyroid-supplements-8600000.html
https://brainreference.com/orchex-review/
https://www.verywellhealth.com/pancreatin-4775747
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-312/betaine-hydrochloride
Summer is here! The temperature’s up, the kids are out of school, you can finally take that vacation you’ve been planning, splash around in the pool, and revel in the glory of summer.
Wherever you may be this summer, ensure you have your Standard Process supplements handy. Summer has its own unique set of challenges, like sunburn, heat stroke, pollen, poison ivy, and more. We have a few specific supplement recommendations to help your body cope with the season's environmental toxins.
With Albizia, Chinese Skullcap and Nigella, AllergCo’s combination of herbs provides multiple compounds including saponins, flavonoids (especially baicalin) and quinones (particularly thymoquinone). AllergCo helps the body:
Allerplex® supports the body’s ability to deal with environmental challenges and can help maintain healthy mucous membranes.*
Summer is a time for fun and relaxation, but it can also be a time for health challenges. Whether you're dealing with sunburn, pollen allergies, or respiratory problems, Standard Process has a natural supplement to help you stay healthy and enjoy your summer.
Cataplex® F can help reduce inflammation and the likelihood of sunburn. Linum B6 contains flaxseed oil, which is good for hormone and nerve tissue health, and helps promote healthy skin. USF Ointment® is a natural relief for sunburn, and AllergCo helps the body respond normally to seasonal stress, support skin and immune system health, and maintain healthy breathing passages. Allerplex® supports the body's ability to deal with environmental challenges and can help maintain healthy mucous membranes.
With these natural supplements, you can enjoy your summer without worrying about common seasonal health problems. So stock up on Standard Process supplements, stay hydrated, and gear up for a healthy summer!
Dr. Robert Powell, The “Wholefood Guru”
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Wholefood Guru is an authorized online distributor of Standard Process health products.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
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Life is most certainly trying at times. When stress starts to affect your daily life, try supplementing your diet with Ashwagandha. Although it’s been around for centuries as part of Ayurveda (the system of medicine in India), this herb as enjoyed renewed popularity.
Ashwagandha is an herbal shrub and is part of a class of plants called adaptogens. Adaptogens and can be ingested as tea, powder, tinctures, supplements, or in raw form.
It’s best known for its ‘mood-boosting’, ‘stress-busting’ properties and may have interrelated effects. Less stress = better sleep = lower cortisol production = better blood sugar numbers.
At Whole Food Guru, we recommend two Ashwagandha products, offered by Standard Process:
The first is Ashwagandha Forte an herbal supplement that contains Ashwagandha root single-ingredient preparation of Withania somnifera, also known as ‘Ashwagandha’. Each tablet is standardized to contain 10 mg, which ensures optimal strength and quality.
Caution: Not to be used during pregnancy and lactation unless otherwise directed by a qualified health care professional. If you have a thyroid condition, use strictly under physician direction. For other contraindications and cautions consult your health care professional. Keep out of reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
For other contraindications and cautions, please refer to the Potential Herb-Drug Interactions Chart found here: Interactions Chart.
The second product is Ashwagandha Complex containing four adaptogenic herbs: Ashwagandha, Korean Ginseng, Licorice, and Skullcap.
Caution: Contraindicated in high blood pressure, edema (water retention), congestive heart failure, low blood potassium, pregnancy and lactation. Discontinue during an acute infection or fever. If you have a thyroid condition use strictly under physician direction.
For other contraindications and cautions, please refer to the Potential Herb-Drug Interactions Chart found here: Interactions Chart.
In conclusion, Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to promote overall health and well-being. It is especially beneficial for reducing stress, anxiety, and fatigue, and it may also help to improve cognitive function, sleep quality, and athletic performance. Ashwagandha is generally safe for most people to take, but it is important to talk to your doctor before taking it if you have any health concerns.
If you are looking for a natural way to improve your health and well-being, Ashwagandha is a great option!
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Wholefood Guru is an authorized online distributor of Standard Process health products.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Sources: https://www.forbes.com/health/body/ashwagandha-benefits/, April 2023
]]>Our pets are part of the family. They bring joy and unconditional love into our homes. As such an integral part of our lives, we want to give our pets the best life possible with lots of love and optimal health.
As you know, our website offers Standard Process supplements for humans, but you may not be familiar with our collection of SP all-natural supplements for dogs. Many are targeted to aid specific systems in the body.
To keep “man’s best friend” healthy and happy for many years to come, feed them premium food and use supplements as needed for the best health and longevity for both you and your dog.
Provides dogs with overall multi-system support, and a special focus on the endocrine system. This nutritional supplement that can be used with all other system-support formulas.
Supports optimal cardiac function, which in turn supports proper function of the muscle cells.
This supplement supports a dog’s ideal musculoskeletal system, including muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments.
A dog’s immune system is an array of cells found throughout the body. Immune cells work with other cells to provide a defense against unwanted illness.
Because a dog’s immune system is so complex, it needs a multi-dimensional approach. The nutritional support of the immune system is meant to facilitate normal function and not be suppressive or stimulating.
Supports all aspects of thyroid function with critical trace nutrients that support the thyroid gland. Also supports glands and tissues that interact with the thyroid, like the adrenals and liver.
This supplement contains a variety of functional foods, plant and animal, to support the digestive system so intestinal cells can respond to daily metabolic and immune challenges.
Canine Flex Support is a chewable glucosamine and chondroitin wafer that helps support healthy joint function. Wear and tear of joints and surrounding tissues can cause stiffness in active and aging dogs.
Canine Renal Support aids the normal function of the kidneys while also supporting the liver, cardiovascular system, and autonomic nervous system.
A dog’s liver interacts with most organs in its body, including the kidneys, intestinal tract, cardiovascular system, and autonomic nervous system.
Canine Hepatic Support is formulated to promote proper bile production and flow, as well as hepatic immune function.
A powder supplement that contains whole food ingredients to help keep your dog’s skin looking healthy and maintain proper functioning of liver, adrenal, immune system, and intestines.
Adrenal glands release corticosteroids and hormones during stress. With chronic stress, the adrenals can become fatigued, and that affects the pituitary and thyroid glands, autonomic nervous system, liver, duodenum, and kidneys.
This supplement supports a dog’s adrenal glands to help the body rebuild, regenerate, and respond normally to stress.
This hemp oil supplement for dogs has a 3-in-1 benefit. It supports dogs’ endocannabinoid systems, inflammation response, and endogenous antioxidant pathways. Made with non-genetically engineered hemp, a combination of natural omega-3 fatty acids (including DHA and EPA) and Brassica (TrueBroc®), which contains broccoli for additional antioxidant support.
This fish oil supplement can be given to dogs and cats. It provides omega-3 fatty acids that support your pets’ critical body systems:
In conclusion, Wholefood Guru offers a wide variety of all-natural Standard Process supplements for dogs, each targeting a specific system in the body. These supplements can be used to support overall health and well-being, or to address specific health concerns. It is important to talk to your veterinarian before giving your pet any supplements, to make sure that they are safe and appropriate for your pet's individual needs.
By nourishing them with whole food nutrients and supplements, you can help your dog live a long, healthy, and happy life!
Dr. Robert Powell, The “Wholefood Guru”
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Wholefood Guru is an authorized online distributor of Standard Process health products.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Consult your veterinarian before use.
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Cats are mysterious creatures and therefore have lots of misconceptions floating around about them. Nine lives? Steal a baby’s breath? Always land on their feet? None of these are true and can actually be detrimental for a cat if their human believes these tall tales.
Those of us who have cats know that in their own way, cats are loving, caring, independent, and protective creatures who want nothing more than a lap, some food, and for you to reciprocate their feelings.
You can also help extend their lives with the proper nutrition and the right supplements. Our website offers a collection of feline support supplements created from wholefood nutrients by Standard Process.
These products are available in a variety of formulas to support different systems in the body, so you can choose the one that is right for your cat's individual needs.
Overall multi-system support for daily maintenance of body systems and can be used with our other system support formulas. Great for all stages of life.
Nutritional support for a cat’s immune system focused on providing normal function with nutritional and biochemical support for healthy immune cells and tissues.
A healthy digestive tract is critical to overall health and well-being, not only for humans, but for animals, too. The digestive system works to break down and absorb nutrients. Digestive health has an impact on other systems too, such as:
The heart is the center of the cardiovascular system. Providing nutritional support to the cardiovascular system also feeds organs that help support the heart: liver, kidneys, and digestive system.
This supplement is designed to support the natural healing of the kidneys and to provide balanced cellular nutrition for the entire urinary system.
Created to support a feline’s liver metabolism including hepatic circulation, bile production and flow as well as hepatic immune function.
Start your kitten off right with The Kitten Kit. It contains everything you need to build good health now and for the future. Kit includes:
Cats are truly amazing creatures, and they deserve the best care possible. By providing them with the proper nutrition and supplements, you can help them live long, healthy lives. The feline support supplements highlighted above are a great way to give your cat the nutrients they need to stay healthy!
Dr. Robert Powell, The “Wholefood Guru”
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Wholefood Guru is an authorized online distributor of Standard Process health products.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Consult your veterinarian before use.
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Ah, springtime! Birds are singing, bees are buzzing, flowers are blooming, and it’s finally warming up outside. Aaaaah…choo!
You may be one of the millions of people who suffer from seasonal allergies. But before you lock yourself in the house until winter, here are several things you can do to reduce your exposure to seasonal triggers.
Use saline solution to relieve nasal congestion. You can buy a ready-made saline solution, make your own, or purchase a nettie pot. These are inexpensive ways to flush mucus and allergens from your nose.
Mother Nature has the answers with herbs to keep your body functioning at its best. The following are a few wholefood supplements that help with seasonal allergies.
AllergCo contains three herbs that help support a healthy response to seasonal stressors and maintain normal respiratory tract function.
The herbal trio of Albizia, Chinese Skullcap and Nigella contain multiple compounds including: saponins, flavonoids (especially baicalin) and quinones (particularly thymoquinone).
These herbs are used traditionally to help the body:
NOTE: Do not use if pregnant
Japanese researchers discovered a liver fat extract that supports the body’s normal detoxification mechanisms. Antronex contains bovine liver fat extract to help the body rid itself of unwanted symptoms.
Allerplex supports the body’s ability to handle environmental challenges and helps maintain healthy mucous membranes.*
Cal-Amo contains compounds that help support proper acid/alkaline balance, including chloride, an electrolyte that strengthens respiratory function.*
Special Info: This product absorbs moisture. Keep bottle tightly closed. Do not chew this product.
In conclusion, seasonal allergies can be a nuisance, but there are ways to reduce exposure to seasonal triggers. Taking precautions such as wearing a mask while working in the yard, using high-efficiency filters, vacuuming often, and using a saline solution for nasal congestion relief are easy and inexpensive ways to minimize allergy symptoms.
Additionally, using wholefood supplements like AllergCo, Antronex, Allerplex, and Cal-Amo can help support the body's response to seasonal stressors and maintain normal respiratory tract function. By following these tips, you can enjoy the beauty of spring without the discomfort of allergies.
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Wholefood Guru is an authorized online distributor of Standard Process health products.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hay-fever/in-depth/seasonal-allergies/art-20048343
https://wholisticmatters.com/a-naturopathic-approach-to-seasonal-allergies/
If you feel like your life is in a rut, whether it’s lack of energy, illness, negative thoughts, or frankly anything else that keeps you from moving forward, you could benefit from a purification program. Maybe you’re eating habits have gotten off track – too much added sugar, fat, sodium, in short, too many packaged foods.
Take a step back and decide if you need a detox or a purification program. Earlier this month we talked about detoxing, removing toxic and unwanted substances from the body. Detoxing is a bit more intense than purification. Standard Process has a Detox Program and a Purification Program. Today we discuss purification.
What is Purification?
Purification takes place when you separate a substance, in this case toxins from our food and environment, into its basic components so the body can remove them on its own. Purification nourishes the body, instead of starving it, to aid in normal toxin removal. The other reason to select a purification program is to eliminate negative/toxic foods from your diet and work toward eating more whole food. The best way to start your journey to a healthy diet and lifestyle is to begin by eliminating any foods that you already know your body does not tolerate well.
Standard Process 21-day Purification Program
Standard Process has a very effective 21-day Purification Program. Not only does it cleanse the body, it’s also easy to follow and puts the focus on learning healthier lifestyle habits with long-term sustainability as the goal.
The 21-day program is designed to purify, nourish, and help you maintain a healthy body weight. It’s easy to follow. Eat whole foods, exercise, drink lots of water and nutritious shakes. Finally, take the appropriate Standard Process supplements. They’re made with whole foods and other natural ingredients.
Days 1 through 10, you can eat an array of fresh vegetables and fruits. On day 11, select proteins are added. Each kit contains all the supplements you’ll need for the 3 week period to boost your body’s ability to flush out the broken down toxins.
What’s in the Kit?
Each of the kits contain the following products:
SP Cleanse® is made up of 20 unique whole food and botanical ingredients designed to support the body's normal toxin-removal processes by:
SP Complete® is available in several choices. This link goes to the unflavored product, but you can also choose: Dairy-Free, Chocolate, or Vanilla. Regardless of flavor, each product provides whole food nutrition and protein including essential amino acids in a convenient powder form to support your body during and after purification.*
SP Complete has multiple benefits:
Choose 2 bottles of Whole Food Fiber:
Or choose two bottles of Gastro-Fiber®, a mixture of fiber sources including apple pectin and psyllium husk. It also includes Collinsonia root, which has been used historically to support normal elimination and digestive and gastro-health*
SP Green Food® includes organic whole food-based sources of alfalfa, Brussels sprouts, and kale to provide phytonutrients to promote healthy liver function* and support overall cellular health.*
There is a Patient Purification Program Guide included free in each kit. This guide will walk you through each step of the program with sections on how to prepare for purification, program basics, FAQs and even recipes.
Standard Process offers eight purification product kits based on your preferred protein and fiber choices. Supplement quantities are sufficient to cover or exceed the 21-day program.
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Wholefood Guru is an authorized online distributor of Standard Process health products.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
]]>We’re exposed to toxins in the environment (exogenous) and our bodies produce waste toxins (endogenous), so every now and then, it’s a good idea to detox for improved health. Read how to detox safely and effectively with Standard Process.
]]>If you’re like most people, even if you had New Year resolutions, you’ve probably given up on them by now. Why not try again? There’s no pressure at this point and you can put more focus on things you want to accomplish.
First and foremost, think about the one thing that is most important to all of us. It’s health! You can always get another job, car, house, etc., but you’ll never get another you.
Do you have any of the following?
Why Detox?
Toxins in the air, food, water, home, office, can all contribute to these symptoms and more. We’re exposed to toxins in the environment (exogenous) and our bodies produce waste toxins (endogenous).
The good news is your body has the ability to detoxify itself. However, when the load of toxins becomes too great, you start having issues like those listed above. So every now and then, it’s a good idea to detox for improved health.
So Many Positives
If you want to feel more energized, look better, super-charge your immune system and overall health, let’s look at some of the positives of a body detox:
Healthy Metabolic Detoxification with SP Detox Balance™
SP Detox Balance™, formulated by Standard Process, supports whole body detoxification and helps your liver in the processing and removal of toxins from your body.** It also provides amino acids required for Phase II enzymes. It’s an excellent source of iron, good source of choline, dietary fiber, and plant-based magnesium for a gluten-free, vegan detox.
Balanced, safe, and effective nutritional support for all three phases of detoxification**
However, remember that detoxification is an energy-dependent process, and an adequate energy supply is crucial throughout the entire process. Fasting or improper nutrition during a detox could potentially have negative health effects, including many you are trying to rid your body of:
10 and 28-day SP Detox Programs
The SP Detox Balance™ Program has options for a 10-day or 28-day cleanse and includes a tasty shake, supported by sample meals, and a guidebook to help you through the process. SP Detox Balance™ powder is vegan and contains whole food-based nutritional ingredients* plus a whopping 17 grams of protein derived from pea isolates, pumpkin concentrate, oat flour and buckwheat flour. Choose from the original shake or chai flavor.
*Warning: This product contains naturally occurring Vitamin K1. If you are taking blood-thinning medicines, are pregnant or nursing, or have been directed to eat a diet low in oxalates, please consult with your health care professional before taking this product.
Cheers to improved health!
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Wholefood Guru is an authorized online distributor of Standard Process health products.
**These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Sources
https://www.detox.org/20-reasons-why-you-should-detox-your-body-regularly/
https://drhyman.com/blog/2015/03/12/7-reasons-you-need-to-detox/
https://wholefoodguru.com
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The holidays are on the way and that means a lot of cold weather, indoor events, and socializing with family and friends. Be prepared to fight the germs of cold and flu season by strengthening your immune system today. Since the immune system is not one single entity, but actually many parts that need to work together successfully, that means everything must be balanced and synchronized to keep you healthy. A healthy immune system can defeat invading pathogens (microorganisms that cause illness) thanks to neutrophils (white blood cells) in the body that consume the invaders. Sounds a bit like science-fiction, doesn’t it?
At least 70% of your immune system lives in your gut, so keep it healthy by eating whole foods and no more than 25 grams of added sugar per day. Get enough sleep, 7 to 8 hours each night, and exercise. Last but not least, wash your hands frequently.
For additional support, or if you start to feel like you may be getting sick, you can boost your immunity with some of the whole food supplements and botanicals listed below offered by Standard Process. As always, check with your physician before taking any supplements.
Andrographis Complex can enhance immune system function, support healthy respiratory system function, encourage the body’s correct adaptive response to occasional stress, and promote healthy liver function.*
Andrographis Complex tablets contain:
Together these herbs provide a unique range of phytochemicals like flavonoids, caffeic acid derivatives, essential oil, and polyphenols.
Congaplex®️ helps boost the immune system to fight off colds, the flu, and/or a fever. It’s safe for children, too.
Epimune Complex is a vegetarian supplement is designed to "feed" the immune system using the synergistic effects of mushrooms, minerals, vitamin C, and dried Brewer's yeast fermentate (EpiCor®️).
Epimune Complex Key Ingredients
Epimune Complex also includes whole food powders of the mycelium of Coriolus versicolor (Turkey-tail) and Grifola frondosa (Maitake) mushrooms. Both of these mushroom varieties are well known for their health-promoting properties.9-15 The mycelium of a mushroom develops enzymes and metabolites that protect the whole mushroom and in turn—you.*
Echinacea Premium enhances immune system function, supports and promotes normal interferon production (interferons are antiviral agents that control functions of the immune system.) This supplement also stimulates the body’s normal tissue support and renewal for healthy white blood cells, upper respiratory tissue, and throat tissue.*
Echinacea Premium enhances immune system function, supports and promotes normal interferon production (interferons are antiviral agents that control functions of the immune system.) This supplement also stimulates the body’s normal tissue support and renewal for healthy white blood cells, upper respiratory tissue, and throat tissue.*
Echinacea Premium combines the roots of two types of Echinacea—angustifolia and purpurea to further enhance healthy immune function. Echinacea has also been used to:
The blend of these two Echinacea plant species ensures these components are present in the most effective quantities. Each tablet has a total of 4.1 mg of alkylamides per tablet for optimal strength and quality.
Sinus Forte helps maintain healthy, normal mucus secretion in nasal and sinus passages. It is also effective against environmental stresses, helps support free and clear breathing, encourages a healthy environment for normal respiratory flora, maintains normal respiratory tract function and supports outer ocular (the parts of the eye that can be seen) health. Sinus Forte contains:
The compounds in Black Cumin have been used traditionally in Ayurvedic herbal preparations for centuries in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Black Cumin seed is often called the “seed of blessing” and helps support healthy digestive functions.
Black Cumin Seed Forte is a high-strength formula with an array of ingredients that include: proteins, alkaloids, saponins, fixed oil, and essential oil to aid:
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Wholefood Guru is an authorized online distributor of Standard Process health products.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
When discussing anxiety and depression there are several things to note. First, we will talk about them separately in this article, although they can happen in tandem. Second, know that everyone gets anxious from time-to-time and depression is not simply feeling sad. If you feel you cannot function in your everyday life like you used to, see your doctor right away. And third, no two people experience anxiety or depression in the same way. There are some similarities, though.
Anxiety disorders usually have intense, excessive worry and fear about everyday situations. Panic attacks are repeated episodes of intense anxiety and fear that reach a peak within minutes.
While it may unveil itself in different ways, anxiety causes the body to produce an increased amount of cortisol, which is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. This hormone engages the ”fight or flight” response within the body. Many animals, including humans, have this survival instinct. With the increased levels of cortisol, the body tells the nervous system to get ready to run away or to fight the situation.
According to the Mayo Clinic, common signs and symptoms of anxiety include:
Approximately 31% of U.S. adults experience an anxiety disorder at some time in their lives.2 Not everyone does something about it though.
Depression can take many forms and can range from mild to severe. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, depression can be considered an illness when at least five symptoms occur together for two weeks or more. They are:
If you think you may have depression, consult with your healthcare professional right away to schedule an evaluation.
For both anxiety and depression, many people have found that diet and lifestyle modifications can help lessen symptoms. Something as simple as sunlight can boost your mood. Researchers at BYU found more people experience mental health distress during seasons with little sun exposure (Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD). On days with plenty of sunshine, less mental health issues were observed.
Lifestyle modifications that can help reduce anxiety and depression:
Talk to your doctor to see if you can add supplements to your diet. If you get the go ahead, try these highly effective whole food supplements by Standard Process:
Ashwagandha Complex® contains adaptogenic herbs (plant-based herbs with complex compounds that help your body adapt to physical or psychological stress by interacting with your cellular systems.)3
This Ashwagandha Complex includes Ashwagandha, Korean Ginseng, Licorice, and Skullcap. These ingredients have been known to help:
Ashwagandha Forte is an herbal supplement that contains Ashwagandha root used traditionally as a rejuvenating tonic for stress, immune system and cognition support.*
It is traditionally used in Ayurvedic herbal preparations:
Orchex® combines several nutrients to promote nervous system balance. *
Min-Chex® is a combination of synergistic factors designed to support the nervous system. *
Min-Tran® is a vegan supplement that contains mineral complexes to support emotional balance. *
Drenamin® is a supplement for adrenal support. It promotes healthy adrenal gland function and helps maintain emotional balance.*
Symplex F® is a supplement for women that can help support the healthy function of the ovaries and the adrenal, pituitary, and thyroid glands. *
Symplex M® is a testicular health supplement that supports the healthy function of the testes and the adrenal, pituitary, and thyroid glands. *
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Wholefood Guru is an authorized online distributor of Standard Process health products.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
1https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anxiety/symptoms-causes/syc-20350961
2Harvard Medical School, 2007. National Comorbidity Survey (NCS). (2017, August 21)
3https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/a23840175/what-are-adaptogens/
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In its simplest terms, menopause is one year after a woman stops having her period. Before (perimenopause), during (menopausal), and after (post-menopausal) there are changes in hormones, which can effect mood.
The best way to prepare for many of life’s hurdles is to have all the facts, so you can determine how to best help yourself. This article looks at ways to navigate menopausal symptoms using herbs and other natural means.
It isn’t like you wake up one day and menopause happens…that would be too easy. According to the Mayo Clinic, in the U.S. the average age for menopause is 51. You will probably reach menopause around the same age your mother did.
Before menopause, you’ll go through a transitional period for about four years. It can start in the mid to late forties and is referred to (as above) – perimenopause.
Symptoms of perimenopause vary from woman to woman. Some don’t need treatment to relieve or manage symptoms, while more severe symptoms may need treatment.
You can help yourself prepare for menopause by making changes that will affect your overall health for the better and the long term.
Unlike many drugs, herbs often work by supporting your body’s own natural functions and thereby do not have as many side-effects. Always consult with a physician before taking anything new.
Following are several whole food supplements from Standard Process that have been proven to help ease symptoms associated with menopause.
One of the best herbs for relieving stress and anxiety is Ashwagandha. This herb is an adaptogen which means it supports equilibrium in the body. Ashwagandha can also boost a sluggish thyroid and help your brain function better.
Ashwagandha Complex contains Ashwagandha, Licorice, Skullcap and Korean Ginseng. These herbs are used to:
Symplex® F supports the healthy function of the ovaries and the adrenal, pituitary, and thyroid glands. * This supplement:
Chaste Tree contains high-quality Chaste Tree berries to help restore natural ovulation and progesterone production until your body is ready to stop cycling altogether. Bringing progesterone levels back in balance helps offset estrogen dominance and its related symptoms, which include hot flashes and low libido. Chaste Tree contains flavonoids and:
FemCo contains Shatavari, Schisandra, and White Peony. These herbs have been traditionally used to:
Black Currant Seed Oil contains the essential fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and:
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications.
1 https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause/menopause-age#delaying-menopause
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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Inflammation is your immune system’s response to injury or infection. For example, if you get a mosquito bite, the area turns red, swells a bit, and eventually starts to itch. If you scratch it, the redness can increase, but over time your body heals the bite. Eventually your skin will look normal again. This is the way the body heals itself from all outside forces. However, if your immune system is compromised in some way, inflammation can spread through the body.
This is called chronic inflammation, and it can be a major cause of joint pain and plaque buildup in arteries, increasing your risk of heart disease and stroke. Studies show that chronic inflammation has also been linked to an elevated risk of cancer, kidney disease, diabetes, and more. 1
One of the best ways to combat chronic inflammation is to eat properly. Choose whole foods. That means unprocessed, fresh foods and produce, such as green leafy vegetables, cruciferous vegetables (cauliflower, kale, cabbage, broccoli, etc.), fruits, nuts, omega-3 fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, blue fin tuna, trout, herring) and olive oil. Keep added sugars below 25 grams. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated. Combine good eating habits with aerobic exercise and get enough sleep, 7 to 8 hours each night. 2
Turmeric is an herb that is used in a lot of Indian cooking. It comes from the ginger family. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin. That’s how it gets its yellow/orange color. Curcumin contains natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
The most potent way to consume your turmeric is as a supplement because it’s more concentrated than the spice you buy in the store. Doctors usually recommend 500mg to 1,000mg two times a day with food. Fatty foods like avocados, nuts, olive oil will help with absorption. Consult with your doctor before taking any new supplements. Turmeric may interfere with blood-clotting medications and is not recommended for anyone with gallbladder disease.3
Supplements can help, too, especially if you aren’t consuming enough natural inflammation-fighting nutrients in your regular diet. Many do not interfere with medication but always be sure. Check with your doctor before taking any additional vitamins, herbs, or supplements of any kind.
At Wholefood Guru, we believe keeping a healthy immune system is the key to managing inflammation and enjoying a healthy life, along with exercise, eating right, and getting enough sleep. Here are a few of our Standard Process supplements that can help strengthen your immune system:
Turmeric Forte is a formulation using turmeric rhizome combined with fenugreek seed extracts to enhance absorption and improve the bioavailability of the turmeric. In a clinical study, the curcumin-fenugreek combination had 24.8 times the bioavailability of an equivalent amount of unformulated curcuminoids. Turmeric Forte is standardized to ensure ideal strength and quality.
Boswellia Complex contains boswellia, celery seed, ginger and turmeric for a potent supplement that can help:
The Boswellia component is standardized to contain 180 mg of boswellic acids per tablet, and the Turmeric component contains 70.4 mg of curcuminoids per tablet.
Caution: Not to be used during pregnancy and lactation unless otherwise directed by a qualified health care professional.
Black Currant Seed Oil contains the essential fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid (GLA).
Each Serving Size (1 Softgel) contains: Black Currant Seed Oil 320 mg, Gamma-Linolenic Acid 47 mg. Other Ingredients: Gelatin, water, and glycerin.
Nutrients & Ingredients
Each Serving Size (1 Softgel) contains: Black Currant Seed Oil 320 mg, Gamma-Linolenic Acid 47 mg. Other Ingredients: Gelatin, water, and glycerin.
For those who don’t like to swallow pills, there’s a chewable version available. The chewable is slightly less potent:
Capsule Chewable
Tuna Oil 1330mg 1080mg
DHA 300 240mg
EPA 60mg 50mg
Omega-3 fatty acids play a critical role in the human body and regulate various functions in the cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, nervous and endocrine systems. Since EPA and DHA are not made efficiently by the body, it is recommended that these polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) be consumed at higher levels in the diet. However, a large percentage of the U.S. adult population falls below the recommendations for omega-3 fatty acid consumption.
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through whole food supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications.
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A healthy and diverse microbiome is an important part of a healthy body. It plays a vital role in several body functions — from gut health to immune system strength, and more.
Our gut microbiome, which is found in the GI tract and spans from our esophagus to our small intestine, houses trillions of microorganisms that influence our overall health, positively or negatively, on a daily basis. These microorganisms include bacteria (good and bad), viruses, and fungi –key contributors to our ability to lead a healthy lifestyle.
The types of bacteria that live in our gut’s microbiome have an incredible impact on our health and greatly influence many of our internal systems, including our immune system.
Mutualistic and commensal bacteria are the “good bacteria” that positively impact our health, and either naturally form in the gut, or are introduced in the form of probiotics and supplements.
These “good” bacteria support our overall health by challenging the “bad”, or pathogenic, bacteria and viruses that gather and replicate in the microbiome, typically due to poor diet and unhealthy lifestyle choices. An overabundance of pathogenic bacteria negatively impacts our health and disrupts our:
Though a number of factors can challenge the microbiome, there are also plenty of ways for humans to support this critical system. Here are five key ways we can ensure a healthy microbiome, maximizing our health and immunity:
Every meal, drink, and snack consumed passes through our gut microbiome and either positively or negatively impacts its health. A diet that supports a healthy microbiome contains plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds, lean protein, and fermented foods. These foods introduce fiber-containing prebiotics, which play a fundamental role in maintaining a healthy microbiome.
On the other hand, a low-fiber diet high consisting of processed food and refined sugar overwhelms the microbiome with pathogenic bacteria, causing an imbalance to the system and often leading to GI inflammation.
The Mediterranean diet, which includes the above plus lean fish, poultry, and legumes, is a great choice for those looking to maximize their diet’s impact on their gut health.
We are constantly exposed to toxins and toxicants endogenously and from the external environment. Supporting the body’s natural detoxification process through healthy digestion and elimination may limit the damage toxin exposure can have on the microbiome.
Fiber consumption is a great way to aid digestion and support the microbiome. Fiber consumption improves bowel movements and may facilitate toxin elimination in the body’s natural detoxification process.
Stress, inadequate sleep, poor eating habits, and natural aging can leave people more vulnerable to illness and less equipped to overcome immune system challenges. Studies have shown that chronic stress is associated with gut microbiome contributions to “depression- like behavior and inflammatory processes” as well as mood disorders and other negative health consequences.
In supporting the microbiome by reducing stress, we also support a healthy immune system that can more easily stand up to those challenges
We can improve our microbiome by adjusting our lifestyle habits. Choosing healthy lifestyle habits like frequent exercise, smoking cessation, minimizing the taking of antibiotics only when necessary and as directed, hydrating adequately, and practicing healthy sleep habits will maximize our microbiome’s potential to flourish.
When additional support is needed to enhance lifestyle changes, prebiotics and probiotics in the form of whole food-based nutritional supplements can help improve the microbiome.
Prebiotic and probiotic supplements provide the microbiome with the nourishment and living support it needs to build healthy, thriving populations of mutualistic bacteria. Look for supplements that are:
GI Stability™, a prebiotic supplement from Standard Process, supports the GI tract by delivering targeted prebiotic action, supporting a healthy gut microbiome, and feeding the growth of beneficial bacteria. GI Stability™:
Zymex, another dietary supplement by Standard Process, contains a proprietary blend of rice bran, organic carrot, enzymatically processed Spanish moss (Tillandsia usneoides), and organic beet (root). Zymex promotes a balanced pH range in the intestinal tract, creating an intestinal environment that supports a healthy GI microbiome.
While it may be difficult to create an exact formula for a healthy microbiome, that doesn’t mean that we can’t apply reasonable amounts of different “ingredients” to our lifestyle and consumption to improve our GI functions and give ourselves the best possible outcomes.
Supporting a healthy microbiome with lifestyle choices and probiotic and prebiotic supplements as needed can give the beneficial bacteria in the gut the best chance at thriving.
At Wholefood Guru, we strive to provide the most up-to-date clinical information on improving health through wholefood supplementation, diet, and lifestyle modifications.
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Schisandra berry is the fruit of the Chinese magnolia vine, this berry has been used medicinally for thousands of years and is well-known in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
The fruit of the Chinese magnolia vine has been successfully used in the treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory failure, cardiovascular diseases, in the states of exhaustion, fatigue and weakness, excessive sweating as well as insomnia. Schisandra was also used in traditional Russian medicine, in which it was described as a tonic for reducing hunger, delaying the aging process, increasing vitality, and improving mental health.
The main biological component of Schisandra that has a physiological effect on humans is the Dibenzocyclooctadiene lignins. These lignins have been shown to be liver protective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, adaptogenic, and anti-obesity activity.
Several other recent published research has shown positive benefits with the immune system, influencing the central nervous system and hormone balance, the respiratory system, as well as being a useful adjunct in the treatment of ADHD, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease and Meniere's disease. Schisandra is contraindicated in pregnancy, except to assist childbirth.
#schisandra #berry #traditionalchinesemedicine #TCM #liver #fatigue #vitality #mentalhealth #insomnia #respiratory #antioxidant #antiinflammatory #nervoussystem #hormones #ADHD #herbal #herbaltherapy #naturopathy #herbs #nutrition #health #mediherb
]]>All varieties of parsley are hardy biennials but are usually treated as annuals. They vary in height from dwarf to 60 cm/2 ft high. The most familiar varieties are curly-leaved parsley and the French or plain-leaved parsley. Curly parsley is perhaps the most widely used because it makes an attractive garnish. Grow curly parsley for decoration and French parsley for flavor. Parsley is a good source of vitamins and minerals such as potassium, Iron, vitamin C and vitamin A.
Parsley has been used as carminative, gastro tonic, diuretic, antiseptic of urinary tract, anti-urolithiasis, anti-dote and anti-inflammatory and for the treatment of amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, gastrointestinal disorder, hypertension, cardiac disease, urinary disease, otitis, sniffle, diabetes and also various dermal disease in traditional and folklore medicines.
Wide range of pharmacological activity including antioxidant, hepatoprotective, brain protective, anti-diabetic, analgesic, spasmolytic, immunosuppressant, anti-platelet, gastroprotective, cytoprotective, laxative, estrogenic, diuretic, hypotensive, antibacterial and antifungal activities have been exhibited for this plant in modern medicine.
The amount of parsley to use in savory dishes is a matter of individual taste but as a general rule it can be added generously. Chopped leaves can go into green salads, soups, fry parsley in oil until crisp and serve as an accompaniment to fish dishes. Hot parsley tea is a tonic and diuretic. It is believed to help those with rheumatism, and is of use to those who are wanting to remove excess fluid from their body tissues.
#parsley #food #realfood #plants #plantsforhealing #diuretic #potassium #health #wellness #nature #naturopathy
]]>Enzymes are a type of protein that help to digest, absorb, transport, metabolize and eliminate waste. One of the most important jobs of enzymes is to digest food, making it so small that it can pass through the minute openings of the intestines into the bloodstream.
Enzymes speed up the rate of chemical reaction to help support life. The enzymes in your body perform very important tasks such as, building muscles, destroying toxins, aid with digestion, boost metabolism and help slow the aging process. There are approximately 1,300 different enzymes in the human body.
Enzymes are heat sensitive, so cooking foods over 118 F. destroys these vital enzymes. This includes cooking, baking, frying and microwaving. This is why it is important to eat more raw, lightly steamed or sautéed vegetables as well as fresh fruits.
#enzyme #digestion #food #health #vegetables #fruits #cooking #muscles #protein #carbohydrates #biochemistry #enzycore #multizyme #SP #naturopathy
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Despite all the talk about vitamins today, few people actually know what they are and why they are so important.
Vitamins are organic food substances- that is, substances that occur naturally only in living things, plants or animals. They exist in foods in minute quantities; they are absolutely necessary for proper growth and the maintenance of health. Plants manufacture their own vitamins. Animals obtain theirs from plants or from other animals that eat plants. Some animals manufacture in their own bodies some of the vitamins they need.
Green leaves of plants are the laboratories in which vitamins are manufactured. So the green leaves and stalks of plants are full of vitamins. Foods that are seeds (beans, peas, kernels of wheat and corn etc.) also contain vitamins which the plant has provided to nourish the next generation of plants. The lean meat of animals contains vitamin; the organs (heart, liver, etc..) contain even more, which the animal’s digestive system has stored there.
Basically there are two classifications of vitamins, fat-soluble vitamins and water-soluble vitamins. These terms refer to a basic structural difference within the two kinds of vitamins. Fat-soluble vitamins are soluble in a solution of alcohol and are more easily stored within the body; water-soluble vitamins will dissolve in water, and are lost much more easily by the body though normal elimination.
The fat-soluble vitamins are A, D, E, and K. the water-soluble vitamins include all the B vitamins, C Vitamins and the bioflavonoids (also known as vitamin P).
#vitamins #plants #animals #food #necessaryforlife #fat-soluble #water-soluble #vitaminA #vitaminD #vitaminE #vitaminK #vitaminC #Bvitamins #health #healthylifestyle #naturopathy
]]>Choline is a part of the vitamin B complex. Technically, it is in its natural form ptomaine found in the bile and suprarenal (above the kidney) gland extract. It is essential for proper functioning of the liver. Although made in the body through synthesis, it is not made in sufficient amounts to meet the needs of most higher animals. It must therefore be supplied in food.
Chole is the Greek word for bile and this explains the use of the name choline. It meets the requirements for classification as a vitamin and is considered essential for growth and prevention of fatty livers.
In addition to participating in the transport and metabolism of fats, it plays a role in the normal functioning of nerves and is important in the metabolism process, especially in the synthesis of some proteins.
Choline also supports the actions of bile salts by reducing the surface tension of fat particles, making them easier to be emulsified. In addition, choline is needed to produce acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter for memory, mood, muscle control, and other brain and nervous system functions.
The main dietary sources of choline in the United States consist primarily of animal-based products that are particularly rich in choline—meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, and eggs. Cruciferous vegetables and certain beans are also rich in choline, and other dietary sources of choline include nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
#choline #Bvitamins #brainhealth #fattyliver #memory #growth #bile #gallbladder #nerves #musclecontrol #metabolism #acetylcholine #protein #eggs #fish #meat #vegetables #beans #healthy #healthylifestyle #wholefood #standardprocess #nutrition #naturopathy
]]>Papayas are native to central America, Papaya have a wonderfully soft, butter-like consistency and a sweet, musky taste. Botanically, they are known as Carica papaya. Inside their inner cavity of the fruit are black, round seeds encased in a gelatinous-like substance. Papayas’ seeds are edible with a peppery flavor. The most popular varieties are Hawaiian and Mexican.
Papaya is rich in the carotenoids beta-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin. Not only are these carotenoids considered to be “pro-vitamin A” nutrients because they are converted into vitamin A in the body, but they have powerful antioxidants activity as well. Both of these functions make them important nutrients for promoting lung health.
In addition to the antioxidants found in Papaya, they also contain a protein-digesting enzyme called chymopapain. This enzyme has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve healing from burns. This may explain why people with diseases that get worse with inflammation- such as asthma, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis- find that their condition may be reduced when they eat Papaya.
Papaya is also a concentrated source of many other nutrients providing additional health-promoting benefits. These nutrients include heart-healthy folate, potassium, dietary fibers, vitamin C and vitamin E.
#papaya #fruit #betacarotene #vitaminsandminerlas #folate #fiber #lung #lunghelath #inflammation #antiinflammatory #enzyme #vitaminC #potassium #digestion #hearthealth #healthy #eatwholefood #Naturopathy
Herbalism is the study and use of plants for medicinal purposes and is the earliest form of medicine. One of the earliest texts to be discovered was the Ebers Papyrus, written about 1550 B.C., in which the ancient Egyptians wrote down many of their prescriptions and showed their standards of medicine to be surprisingly high. Later their knowledge was to influence Greek medicine to a considerable extent.
The first physicians were all herbalists, as evidenced by the valuable description of herbs used in medicine set down by Hippocrates in the fifth century B.C. Hippocrates firmly believed that the treatment of a specific complaint should be carried out only as a part of the treatment of the whole person. He stressed the importance of diet to a person’s health as well as their habits and the environment in which they lived.
In the first and second centuries A.D. two eminent men figured prominently in the advancement of herbalism, Dioscorides and Galen. Dioscorides was a Greek physician and botanist who lived in Asia Minor yet travelled extensively throughout Europe studying the flora and fauna and recording the special properties of many new plants.
He wrote the Materia Medica, a detailed list of plants and the drugs to be obtained from them, which is said to be a valuable source of information on the botany of the ancient herbalists.
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The foods you eat on a daily basis have a tremendous impact on your overall health. If you eat all-natural, health-giving foods, your body will be healthier, If you eat junk, your physical health will suffer. Remember that your body’s only source for its building materials is the food that goes into your mouth.
Food is not simply an energy source for the body. Each piece of food you put into your mouth contains hundreds or thousands of individual chemicals that influence a wide range of functions in your body, including your metabolic rate, immune function, emotional state and your body weight.
You are what you eat. Eat whole foods and not fake foods. Remember, if it didn’t have a mother or grow in the ground, it’s not food.
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Pseudo-grains are seeds and grasses we commonly classify as grains but in fact are not grains. These are superfoods known to be high in protein and fiber as well as lower in the glycemic scale than grains are. Pseudo-grains are gluten-free and are a rich source of complex carbohydrates. They are also a great source of B vitamins and minerals like calcium, manganese and iron.
Grains are known to be associated with a variety of digestive issues, like gluten intolerance and can be a cause of inflammation in the body. Many grains today are highly processed which reduces their nutritional content and most grains have been genetically modified. Eating or overeating grains on a regular basis can lead to elevated insulin levels and insulin sensitivity.
Grains to avoid: Wheat, corn, rye, oats, white rice, sorghum bulgur (cracked wheat) and barley.
Pseudo-grains to add to your diet: Wild rice, teff, millet, amaranth and buckwheat.
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