Articles
The truth about detoxing
God made our bodies with an already highly sophisticated built-in detox system, working 24/7 against toxins, toxicants and pathogens. We often hear the term “detox” being thrown around irresponsibly, usually by marketing schemes. Schemes such as green juices, coffee enemas, restrictive diets, herbal teas or shakes. We aren’t saying that there isn’t a need to be mindful of exposures or that we don’t need to worry about what we put in our bodies, that would also be irresponsible but what we want to hopefully achieve by our readers looking at this article is that our bodies are working extra hard for you and the best thing we can do in return is to nourish and support the systems already in place. In this article, we’ll go through your body’s six key detoxification organs. The liver, kidneys, colon, skin and lungs- showing you what each one does, what it detoxifies and how to support it through your everyday nutrition and lifestyle. No gimmicks or selling points. Just real, practical ways to help your body do what it was divinely designed to do. What is detoxification? You can define detoxification as your body’s way of eliminating waste and harmful substances. This includes- toxicants (from man-made sources), toxins (from biological sources), excess hormones, bodies byproducts from metabolism (ammonia or carbon dioxide), pollutants, alcohol, medications and sources from foods. Your skin The largest organ in our body, and known as our body’s first line of defence. The skin is responsible for activating your immune system when harm does pass through, but it also helps our body expel toxins from your body from the inside out, in addition to keeping the beneficial chemicals in. Detoxes Sweat contains urea, salt, ammonia and heavy metals (interestingly, research has shown that sweating through dynamic exercise leads to significantly high excretion of heavy metals such as nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), copper (Cu) and arsenic (As)). Toxins and old skin cells. How it works The skin helps remove waste through sweat glands, which release a fluid called sweat. Sweat is mostly water with some salts and waste products, and it plays a key role in helping the body cool down and get rid of small amounts of excess salts and fluids. How to support your skin Stay hydrated Avoid overuse of harsh skincare products Be mindful of the sun and UV rays (wear sunscreen) Collagen, vitamin c and zinc help support skin repair and strength Regular movement and gentle sweating (exercise or sauna) Your lungs We don’t often think of our lungs as part of the detoxification system, however they play a really vital role in removing waste. And they work very hard—exchanging about 6L of air per minute. Detoxes Carbon dioxide Airborne toxins, pollutants and microbes How it works With every exhale, the lungs release waste gases and help filter out harmful airborne substances. The bloodstream picks up toxins and transports them to the lungs, where they reach the alveolar sacs (tiny air sacs at the base of the lungs). Waste gases like carbon dioxide are expelled, and more “stubborn” toxins can be trapped and later removed through coughing or phlegm. How to support your lungs Avoid smoking and minimise environmental pollutants as much as possible (certain candles, fragrances, pollution and cleaning products) Regular exercise (to help strength and restoration of the lungs) Hydrate for healthier mucous production Increase antioxidant-rich foods- vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E. Include more dark green vegetables and dark red/purple/blue fruits such as berries Ventilate your living areas, remember to open the windows occasionally for fresh air Your kidneys These important bean-shaped organs are one of the main organs in the detoxification system. Filtering half a cup of blood a minute! And all your blood in 30 minutes. Detoxes Urea (protein) and uric acid Electrolytes (sodium, chloride etc) Alcohol Medication Excess water How it works Kidneys can be explained simply as “sophisticated sieves”. Blood enters the kidneys through an artery from the heart. Each kidney contains up to a million tiny units called nephrons, which work to filter and clean your blood. After the kidneys remove waste, the cleaned blood returns to your body, while the waste, now in the form of urine, moves into the bladder. How to support your kidneys Ensure to hydrate sufficiently Aim to have healthy blood pressure to prevent kidney damage Being active and doing the recommended amount of exercise weekly is important in keeping a healthy blood pressure Manage your blood sugar levels, this is also incredibly important because when your body’s cells can’t use the glucose (sugar) in your blood, your kidneys are forced to work extra hard to filter your blood Stop smoking (cigarettes and vaping) as smoking damages your body’s blood vessels (slower blood flow) to your kidneys Monitor your salt intake and processed foods Your liver The human liver is the primary detox organ, and not only performs over 500 functions but also filters and processes toxins. Detoxes Alcohol Medications and drugs Hormones Metabolic waste How it works The liver will receive blood from the digestive tract through the portal vein to the liver, carrying nutrients, medication and also toxic substances. Once they reach the liver, these substances are processed, altered, detoxified and either stored or passed back into the blood. Others are mixed into bile, which the liver produces and releases into the bowel, helping to eliminate waste through the digestive system. How to support your liver Avoid excessive alcohol intake. Also avoid unnecessary medications and drugs. Aim to include more mono- and poly-unsaturated (omega 3) fats to reduce inflammation . Research has also shown that just a 5% weight loss can reduce the fat that can accumulate in your liver. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and brussels sprouts contain special compounds that turn into helpful substances, like sulforaphane, which support the liver by boosting the production of enzymes that break down and remove harmful toxins. Bitter greens such as rocket or mustard greens, can stimulate bile production. The bitter compounds in these greens activate the liver and gallbladder, encouraging the secretion of bile, which helps with digestion and the removal of toxins from the body. Your gastro intestinal tract (GIT) The intestinal tract runs from the mouth to the colon and anus. Its not all about digestion, but also the elimination (detoxification) of toxins as well. Detoxes Toxins from food and the environment Used-up hormones, especially excess oestrogen Waste from digestion By-products from gut bacteria Microbes or pathogens that shouldn’t be there How it works Binds all waste, toxins, excess hormones (oestrogen and cholesterol!) to fibre so that they can be eliminated out with stool. The “good” bacteria in your gut help break down harmful substances. How to support your intestinal tract Instead of going on a juice cleanse for 2 weeks (and they don’t have any fibre- which the gut really needs to be healthy) give it attention and care with increased diversity of vegetables, fibre and probiotics Include more probiotic rich foods like fermented milks, sauerkraut or kimchi and prebiotic foods such as onions, garlic, spring onions etc Water helps move everything along your digestive tract and keeps bowel movements regular Stress affects digestion and gut lining integrity Help your gut by reducing the toxins it has to deal with in the first place (ultra processed foods, alcohol and excess sugar) A healthy gut lining helps prevent toxin reabsorption (try adding collagen, bone broths or glutamine to repair your gut lining) Your lymphatic system The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, lymph nodes and organs (like the spleen and thymus) that helps your body remove waste, balance fluid levels and transport white blood cells for immune defence. Detoxes Cellular waste Toxins and environmental chemicals Pathogens (viruses, bacteria) Dead or damaged cells Excess fluid How it works Lymph vessels collect waste from your tissues. This fluid (lymph) is carried through lymph nodes, where it’s filtered. Cleaned lymph is then returned to your bloodstream for final waste removal via kidneys, liver, skin and colon. How to support your intestinal tract Stay hydrated as lymph is mostly water, without enough, it becomes “sluggish” Exercise and increase your activity if you are sedentary as the lymphatic system is stimulated by moving your muscles and getting your heart rate up See a professional for lymph massage Focus on an anti-inflammatory diet rich in nutrients and low in fast foods and refined carbohydrates After seeing how hard our body works to naturally detox, it’s clear why commercial detoxes that are low in fibre and nutrients can be risky. These detoxes don’t support the body’s natural processes and can actually do more harm than good. The idea of a “detox” can be great because it brings awareness to one’s eating habits and choices. So instead of relying on restrictive or fad detoxes, focus on nourishing your body with whole foods, fibre, exercise and movement, reducing alcohol and increasing nutrients that support our bodies natural detoxification processes, in a sustainable way.
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Collagen, zinc and vitamin C
Collagen, zinc and vitamin C A closer look at the trio that work together Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body. It holds your skin together, cushions your joints, lines your gut, supports your tendons and ligaments, and gives every connective tissue its strength and structure. It is, quite literally, the protein that holds you together. You will often see claims that hydrolysed collagen is “instantly absorbed from the stomach.” That is not quite how it works, and the difference is quite important. What collagen actually does, and where it goes Hydrolysed collagen has already been pre-broken into smaller chains of two or three amino acids, known as dipeptides and tripeptides. These small fragments are then absorbed in the small intestine, not the stomach, where specialised peptide transporters carry them into the bloodstream. From there, they travel through circulation and are taken up by collagen-rich tissues such as skin, joints and the gut lining, where they act as biological signals to your fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing new collagen. What are fibroblasts? Fibroblasts are the cells that help make collagen. They are found in connective tissue and play an important role in keeping skin, joints, tendons and ligaments strong, supported and able to repair. In other words, collagen does not magically rebuild your skin. It signals your body to do it. And whether your body is in a position to respond well to that signal depends on a few other things. Do you need zinc to absorb collagen? No, collagen supplementation or collagen from food will still be absorbed into your body, but zinc does play multiple, essential roles in the collagen story, and the science is fascinating once you understand it. Zinc is a cofactor of an entire family of enzymes called matrix metalloproteinases, also known as MMPs. This sounds very complex, but basically these zinc-dependent enzymes are in charge of collagen turnover throughout the body. They help break down old, damaged collagen so that new collagen can replace it. Without adequate zinc, this remodelling process may slow down. If we look at the science, recent dermatology research has shown how MMPs are central to skin ageing, particularly in the context of UV-related collagen breakdown. But zinc does not only help break down old collagen. It is also important to fibroblast function and DNA synthesis, so your body can manufacture new collagen molecules in the first place. It also plays a role in wound healing, tissue repair and the production of stomach acid. And that last point matters more than people realise. Adequate stomach acid is needed to digest dietary protein properly, including collagen from food. If zinc status is low, stomach acid production may also be affected, and that can affect the body’s ability to use the nutrients needed for healthy skin, hair and connective tissue. Zinc helps your body break down old collagen, build new collagen, and support the repair process. What about vitamin C? Vitamin C is one of the most important nutrients for collagen production. Our body needs vitamin C to help turn collagen amino acids into strong, stable collagen fibres. Without enough vitamin C, collagen cannot form properly. This is why severe vitamin C deficiency, known as scurvy, causes problems such as bleeding gums, fragile blood vessels, poor wound healing and weak connective tissue. Importantly, vitamin C is not required for the absorption of supplemental collagen peptides. Those are absorbed independently and mainly in the small intestine. But once those amino acids and small peptides are in the body, vitamin C is needed to help turn them into proper, functional collagen. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant. It helps protect existing collagen from oxidative stress caused by things like UV exposure, pollution, stress and normal everyday wear and tear. In this way, vitamin C supports collagen in two ways: it helps with new collagen formation and helps protect the collagen you already have. Clinical research generally supports 200 to 500 mg daily for collagen support. Splitting that into two doses, such as morning and afternoon, may be more useful than a single large dose because vitamin C is water-soluble and the body absorbs it more efficiently in smaller amounts. Collagen peptides provide building blocks. Vitamin C helps your body use those building blocks to make strong collagen. The Sally-Ann Creed approach Our approach is simple: food first, always, then targeted support where it is needed. Collagen, zinc and vitamin C each support a different part of the same bigger picture, which is helping your body maintain healthy connective tissue from the inside out. Collagen peptides provide building blocks. Zinc supports repair and renewal. Vitamin C helps your body build strong collagen. ❤ References 1. Alberts A, Moldoveanu ET, Niculescu AG, Grumezescu AM. Vitamin C: A Comprehensive Review of Its Role in Health, Disease Prevention, and Therapeutic Potential. Molecules. 2025;30(3):748. doi:10.3390/molecules30030748. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11820684 2. Feng L, Liu D, Cheng L. Matrix Metalloproteinases on Skin Photoaging. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2024. doi:10.1111/jocd.16558. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11626319 3. Virgilio N, Schön C, Mödinger Y, et al. Absorption of bioactive peptides following collagen hydrolysate intake: a randomized, double-blind crossover study in healthy individuals. Frontiers in Nutrition. 2024;11:1416643. doi:10.3389/fnut.2024.1416643. This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare practitioner for personal health concerns or before starting a new supplement.
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Do you suffer from Rosacea?
Rosacea is a really nasty skin disorder affecting the curves and features of the centre of the face. It is often called acne rosacea. It’s generally characterised by one or more of the following: Light to heavy facial flushing (erythema) which can be transient or permanent Papules and pustules Telangiectasia – threadlike red lines or patterns that cross the face Rhinophyma – where the nose thickens and becomes bulbous Women of 30-50 are most often victims of this condition, and find it frustrating and embarrassing to deal with for obvious reasons. Allopathic treatments like cortisone and antibiotics are often used to treat it, but this doesn’t solve the problem in the long term. While its cause is supposedly unknown there are a number of factors which are known to trigger it including: Leaky gut syndrome (your gut flora are responsible for more than you know!). This one is the most obvious of all A mite that lives on the skin Poor diet and fizzy drinks Sugar/insulin dysregulation Auto-immunity Low immune status Various pathogenic bacteria living in the gut Helicobacter pylori (a germ that lives in the stomach) Some fungal infections (gut and on the skin) Alcohol is a known trigger if you are genetically predisposed Sometimes rosacea appears in people with autoimmune conditions like Rheumatoid Arthritis, Diabetes type 1, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis and celiac disease, and is sometimes considered an auto-immune condition. However the ‘cause’ which makes the most sense, and where we’ve seen the best results, is in treating the gut and using supplements. Dysbiosis and gastrointestinal disorders in people lead to increased prevalence of the problem, and almost everyone we’ve ever seen with rosacea has leaky gut. Once this is addressed, the problem can be very efficiently controlled with a few basic nutrients. Natural treatments Clearly the GUT has to be addressed. Pathogenic bacteria may be assessed via a sophisticated stool test if you can afford it (not your regular lab). But if you don’t want to do this there is plenty you can do on your own. Some of these measures include: Dietary modification: this is absolutely essential if you want to beat it! NO more seed oils, margarine, gluten, dairy products other than butter, sugar, fructose, fizzy drink, alcohol, soya or processed food. Yes, it’s hard to start with, but so worthwhile Include healthy meats, eggs and other animal protein from grass-fed humanely reared animals. B12 is a KEY nutrient in dealing with rosacea. Get it from animal protein first and foremost. Eat more liver and eggs for vitamin A (vitamin A is only found in the animal kingdom and is not efficiently converted from beta-carotene to vitamin A in the body). This is one of your main ‘skin’ nutrients. Make sure your sugar and insulin levels are normal and that your homocysteine is low (blood tests will confirm this). Take a very good probiotic – MaxiProbiotic is an excellent one (from our online store) Take a good PREbiotic too – like MaxiPrebiotic – to allow effective implantation of probiotics – this takes time, and you need to keep up addressing the gut Take a good Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamine) under the tongue – every day Take a good B Complex daily as well – many B vitamins are missing in this condition and the condition responds well to a good B complex Make sure you are NOT trying to ‘alkalise’ your body! Forget the pH myth – it won’t do you any favours Pure Hydrolysed Collagen has a remarkable effect on skin MaxiMSM is also known to make a huge difference to the skin in a short time like collagen Zinc is a skin-specific nutrient and also encourages stomach acid production, and regulates insulin production. It is a fundamental nutrient in cell-mediated immunity and is an anti-inflammatory. Magnesium citrate is good for a number of things, but in this case for regulation of blood sugar if your problem is in this area – high blood sugar and insulin are VERY inflammatory and will drive this condition out of control Take 1000iu Vitamin D3 daily (make sure it’s D3 and not D2) – excellent for skin and has been shown to be effective in both rosacea treatment and autoimmune diseases. Direct sunlight can irritate rosacea, so in this case a supplement is much better than the sun itself Omega-3 fish oil has been shown to help in dealing with the inflammation of rosacea as it acts by competitively inhibiting pro-inflammatory pathways – take a higher dose than usual if your skin is very greasy All of the above are available from our online store here.
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Hair today, gone tomorrow
Mmm, not funny when you have hair loss or thinning hair. There are a lot of complex mechanisms at work here, but some of you can deal with it to stop the process worsening and in fact give you back that lovely full head of hair. Hair loss can be a simple thing – like a protein deficiency or iron deficiency – but there could also be genetic and hormonal components too. Start by addressing the things you can – here are some ideas if you are experiencing hair loss – remember though, it will take several months to see any difference as hair takes a months to grow. It should at least halt the loss in the first few weeks, while new hair begins to grow. 1. Eat enough animal protein as in meat, eggs, fish etc. Protein deficiency is one of the most obvious reasons for hair loss. We recommend supplementing with collagen. Our Pure Hydrolysed Collagen is the best you can get and works wonders for your hair. 2. If you are on blood thinners, you will find your hair will thin – speak to a health professional about an alternative safe blood thinner 3. Stop smoking if you smoke, as this affects arteries taking blood to the hair follicles (and damages the heart, lungs and brain too) 4. Have a ferritin blood test – you could be iron-deficient. Don’t ever take iron unless you are deficient – it is not a safe mineral to gaily take too much of 5. Use fish oil daily – 3 x softgels. Omega-3 DHA & EPA from fish oil is a powerful way to stop the damage and is one of the top nutrients for helping to keep a full head of hair. Studies show an increase in active hair follicle percentage and diameter distribution of hair over a 6 month period. Also eat more wild-caught salmon. 6. Zinc effectively treats telogen effluvium and alopecia areata – both forms of hair loss because zinc benefits the health of the hair follicle. It also prevents follicle regression and accelerates hair follicle recovery. Another reason beef is so good for you – it is a rich source of zinc. 7. B Complex (a GOOD one) is very important – especially if you are stressed. 8. Biotin is well known as a powerful help for hair growth and is used a lot to prevent further loss. A major sign of biotin deficiency is hair loss, especially during pregnancy. 9. Pantothenic Acid also known as vitamin B5 – has been used as alternative hair loss treatments for ages. In fact pantothenic acid is a natural alternative to cortisone, so it’s an anti-inflammatory agent and at one a day is very affordable. It prevents hairs splitting and breaking, it also increases the diameter of the hair, thickening it and increasing pliability to withstand force, so it doesn’t break. Foods which will provide biotin and pantothenic acid include eggs, beef, chicken, avocado and some nuts. 10. Vitamin C prevents cellular damage to DNA, lipids, proteins and prevents oxidative stress. All these affect hair, so we can never have too much vitamin C! I suggest Super Cee, Liposomal or Lipospheric Vitamin C, Ester C or Scorbi Cee – all of which you’ll find in my online store – any and all vitamin C is crucial for keeping your hair. 11. Vitamin D3 – both a hormone and a vitamin – is important too as hair follicles are very sensitive to hormones. Alopecia areata is common in people with a vitamin D deficiency. Vitiligo is also common in those with a D deficiency. A supplement is highly recommended, but also eat fatty fish like halibut, mackerel and salmon. WHAT SLOWS HAIR GROWTH? In women the most common cause is nutritional before the age of 50. Lack of animal protein, depleted iron stores and after 50, hormonal changes. In general though, these are some of the most common reasons for hair growth inhibition: • Poor nutrition (often too little protein), junk food • Alcohol and cigarettes/vaping • Hormonal changes • Family history – genes • Medications • Pregnancy and breastfeeding (if you are undernourished) • Radiation therapy • Thyroid disorders • Anaemia • Autoimmune diseases • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) • Psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis • Dramatic, fast weight loss (especially if it’s a poor diet) • Too little fat in the diet • Physical trauma/stress of any kind • Lack of collagen A word on COLLAGEN here: Collagen has long been used to support hair, skin, muscle, cartilage, ligament, and blood-cell regeneration. What makes it so special is its essential amino acid profile: glycine, lysine, and proline help regulate cell growth – every cell of the body, including the hair follicles, that’s why people report how thick their hair becomes on collagen supplementation. The best way to add collagen to your diet is by using our non-GMO, grass-fed Pure Hydrolysed Collagen which is in the form of collagen peptides. This is a flavourless powder which dissolves in cold and hot liquids equally, and is tasteless. It is vastly super to traditional protein powders and blends and will give you swift results. We put mine ours in our morning cup of coffee – it makes it super-creamy! To make it easier for you, all these products are available from our online store here. Hair’s to you!
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3 change-of-season flu & virus toolkits
We are now officially entering a change of season world wide – either going into Autumn or Spring, depending in which hemisphere you live. Even the healthiest people seem to fall prey to the sniffles, respiratory and gut viruses, and a host of other miseries at this time of year. Gut bugs, body aches, headaches, ear aches, sore throats and even old viruses like Shingles can spring up at this time of year. Be prepared! We want to give you a basic “Change of Season Toolkit” here – in fact THREE toolkits – one for staying healthy, and another one for IF/WHEN the virus/flu hits to scare it off, and a third for if it ‘gets’ you. So we’re sharing what we do personally. 1. Remaining healthy Vitamin C. We recommend Scorbi-Cee, Super Cee or EsterVit C. We like both Super Cee and Scorbi-Cee powders because you can stir them into water and sip these throughout the day. Squeeze an orange in if you don’t like the tartness. Put 2-3 spoons into 1-2 litres, and sip this all day. MaxiProbiotic 20. If you like capsules, MaxiProbiotic is great. Ensure you take them every day to keep your gut healthy. 1000iu of Vitamin D3 tablets or drops daily This will “hold” a healthy person during even the worst seasonal changes. Don’t forget to eat well!! 2. When you feel like you’re starting to get sick: Ok, so you didn’t dodge the bugs, and you have a scratchy throat, headache etc. The MOMENT this starts, HIT IT HARD so that it will last only a few hours to a few days and not drag on for weeks or months as it can do! We all know what fun that can be…. INCREASE your Vitamin C to 4-5 times or more the dose you are used to. We take 1-2 grams every hour for as long as we feel bad, and then add one more day before dialling it down to 2-4g a day. Continue using your MaxiProbiotic 20. This kills bugs in the gut where they take hold. You can dramatically increase your vitamin D3 for a few days to a week, particularly if your levels are very low. Take 2-4 a day for several days – a powerful immune stimulant. Then revert to one a day when feeling better. Berberine Complex – not only is this brilliant for blood sugar control, but what many people don’t know is that it is a natural antibiotic too! This will prevent opportunistic bacteria from causing a secondary infection. Take one a day 3. If the ‘lurgy’ gets you and you’re now sick: Continue on Vitamin C at a high dose. (In fact as much of the above regimen as you can afford and/or stand) It’s always good to jump in as fast as you can of course – the sooner you start treating yourself the better it will be. Add Olive Leaf Extract 2 caps 3 x a day MaxiProbiotic – take twice as much for a week Bone broths now are important – drink all day and remain hydrated Try to stay quiet and rest during this time – DO NOT EXERCISE as you can damage your heart valves. Wait till you are better.
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What’s the difference between our Vitamin D3 capsules and drops?
We are thrilled to have recently announced the launch of our new Vitamin D3 drops. Not only do they make getting your daily dose of Vitamin D3 easier, but it also comes with no distinct taste, making it a quick and enjoyable part of your supplement regime. As excited as we are, we also know the number one question you may be wondering… which Vitamin D3 option is best for me, the drops or the capsules? Below we have listed some of the benefits of each, helping you to make an informed choice as to which option is best for you. Vitamin D3 is a crucial nutrient that helps regulate calcium and phosphorus absorption in the body, supporting bone, hormone and teeth health. The main difference between Vitamin D3 capsules and Vitamin D3 drops lies in their formulations and methods of consumption. Formulation: Vitamin D3 capsules typically contain a dry form of the vitamin, which is encapsulated in a solid shell. Our D3 capsules are made using a bovine gelatine capsule. On the other hand, Vitamin D3 drops are formulated as a liquid solution. Our new D3 drops are suspended in a water base. You can view the full ingredients list of each below: Ingredients (capsules): Bovine gelatine capsule, vitamin D 1000IU, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose Ingredients (drops): Aqua, vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate Administration: Capsules are meant to be swallowed whole with water or other fluids. They are designed to dissolve in the stomach, releasing the Vitamin D3 for absorption into the bloodstream. Drops, as the name suggests, are administered by placing a specific number of drops onto or under the tongue, allowing for absorption through the mucous membranes in the mouth and directly into the bloodstream. Absorption Rate: Both Vitamin D3 capsules and drops can be effectively absorbed by the body. However, the absorption rate may vary slightly. Drops, when placed onto or under the tongue, may be absorbed more quickly due to the rich network of blood vessels in the mouth area. Capsules, on the other hand, need to pass through the digestive system before the Vitamin D3 can be absorbed. Dosage Accuracy: Drops provide a greater level of control over dosage compared to capsules. Each drop typically contains a specific amount of Vitamin D3 (1ml is equal to 1000IU), allowing for precise dosing. Capsules, on the other hand, come in pre-measured amounts, and it may be difficult to adjust the dosage as precisely as with drops. Convenience and Portability: Capsules are generally more convenient for travel or when on the go since they are pre-packaged and easy to carry. Drops, on the other hand, may require more careful handling to ensure accurate dosage and prevent spills or leaks. It’s worth noting that the choice between capsules and drops often comes down to personal preference, ease of use, and any specific recommendations from your healthcare provider. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable form and dosage of Vitamin D3 supplementation for your specific needs. We also, always recommend that you have your Vitamin D levels checked every 3 to 6 months as it is a fat soluble vitamin that can build up in your system over time.
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Can Vitamin D save your Life?
Yes, we believe vitamin D can save your life. Vitamin D is a true superstar which affects so much more than bones and teeth. The brain, immune system, hormones, cancer prevention and gene expression all rely to some extent on Vitamin D. In fact Vitamin D has been called “one of the simplest solutions to wide-ranging health problems”. Because almost every cell and tissue in the body has a receptor for Vitamin D. So it’s important to get enough, wouldn’t you say vitamin D can save your life? Vitamin D is made in the skin using cholesterol and sunlight, but how many of us get hours of daily sun on bare skin at noon? Studies show most people on this planet are deficient in the minimum RDA for Vitamin D, especially children (they use it quickly to build bones and teeth), and the elderly. You need to have a blood test annually if you are not sure. The preferred range is 50-70ng/ml, and it becomes harder for our bodies to produce it after 35 anyway. If you have heart disease or a history of cancer you want that up to 70-100 ng/ml. It is possible to overdose on D, but if you remain in these ranges and test annually, you will be fine. Overdosing takes a long time at high doses. Taking 1000iu a day will slowly get you to your right level, and you won’t overdose. Please note: Prescription Vitamin D is D2, not D3. D2 does not directly supply D3, and is given in much higher doses (50,000 iu weekly). When blood levels test normal, your doctor will take you OFF D2. But you’ll slip back to deficiency if not taking D3 on a regular basis. Foods which contain D3 Fatty fish such as wild (not farmed) salmon and sardines have roughly 400iu of D in a 90g serving. Liver and pastured egg yolk have a tiny bit – 40iu in 1 egg or 90g of liver. That’s a lot of liver, eggs and canned fish to get a dose of 1000 to 7,000 iu daily. A good supplement is so much easier. Cod liver oil has about 450iu per teaspoon. Mushrooms labelled as containing Vitamin D have been exposed to light and contain Vitamin D2 NOT D3. So it’s difficult to get from food. Absorption of all fat-soluble vitamins is decreased in those with intestinal inflammation such as Celiac, Crohn’s and Irritable Bowel Syndrome and other gut issues. NOTE: ALWAYS TAKE VITAMIN K2 WITH D. Never, never, take Vitamin D3 without K2. We have supplements in our online store with D3 and K2 at https://sallyanncreed.co.za/shop Ways Vitamin D can save your life: DNA repair and gene regulation. This is massive! Vitamin D impacts all the bad genes (turns them off) and all the good genes (turns them on), changing your entire future. One study showed a mere 2,000iu of vitamin D3 per day for a few months upregulated 291 different genes controlling 80 different metabolic processes. Imagine what you are missing out on if you don’t have enough D3? Prevents osteoporosis, hip fractures, arthritis and many types of pain. Studies show a sharp increase in all-cause mortality after a broken hip. Anything that stops us from exercising is harmful. Vitamin D is so important with Vitamin K2 for maintaining bone strength. Vitamin D plays a big role in the aches and pains of chronic fatigue and Fibromyalgia too. The immune system. Vitamin D3 supports the “killer cells” of the immune system, helping white blood cells kill infections. We get sick less often and get well faster. Vitamin D3 is also a potent immune modulator for the prevention and resolution of autoimmune diseases like Multiple Sclerosis and inflammatory bowel disease. Cancer. Vitamin D plays a role in most cancers. In one study, 70% of women with breast cancer were found to be vitamin D deficient. It has even been shown to prevent breast cancer cell growth and decrease the expression of cancer causing genes. It is essential after cancer treatment to track your Vitamin D twice annually and keep it at the top of the range or just slightly beyond – 75-100 ng/ml according to some experts. Maintains a healthy brain. Vitamin D affects production of serotonin which affects sleep, depression, PMS, weight, mood, digestion and more. It helps prevent Parkinson’s by enhancing the transmission of electricity to your neurons and by detoxifying your cells. Dementia, Alzheimer’s, memory and information processing are all affected by low D. Vitamin D activates and deactivates enzymes in the brain and the cerebrospinal fluid involved in neurotransmitter synthesis and nerve growth. Heart disease. People with insufficient vitamin D have an 80% greater risk of narrowing of the arteries according to a long-term study at Johns Hopkins. Vitamin D is important for reducing hypertension, atherosclerotic heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. One study showed Vitamin D deficiency increased the risk of heart attack by 50%. VERY important – Vitamin K2 plays a huge role here also. Don’t take D without K2, as the K2 prevents D from hardening the arteries or forming calcium deposits incorrectly anywhere in the body. Vitamin D plays many roles, but Vitamin K2 makes sure the calcium absorbed does NOT go to the arteries, but to the bones. It’s as important as D3. Diabetes & Weight Loss. Vitamin D stimulates insulin production and is important for Diabetes management and for weight loss. There’s almost no mental or physical function that D does not affect. You’ll find the excellently formulated vitamins – Vitamin D3 Premium and Vitamin K2 Premium at https://sallyanncreed.co.za/shop
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Collagen Types 1, 2 and 3 - Know the important differences
Many people ask us what the difference is between the various collagen types. Certain types are better taken together as they occur in nature (type I & III as you’ll find in our Pure Hydrolysed Collagen), and it’s best to take our Pure Hydrolysed Super Chicken Collagen (type II) separately from the Pure Hydrolysed Collagen because you will get much better results as they have different amino acid profiles. Aside from water, collagen is the most plentiful substance in our bodies, and a building block for skin, tendons, and bones. Collagen types contain different proteins which serve separate purposes within the body. Types I & III can be taken together (they occur together naturally in bovine collagen) and support skin, muscles, bones, and hair and nail growth and maintenance. Collagen Type II protein makes up the fluids and function in the cartilage and joints. That’s why type II collagen should be taken separately from Types I & III to ensure adequate absorption. There are 19 amino acids found in Collagen Types I & III – each essential to functions and maintenance within skin, muscles, and bones. These types are produced by fibroblasts (cells in connective tissues) and osteoblasts (cells that make bones). Over 90% of collagen in the body is Type I & III Collagen and this collagen is high in glycine, proline, alanine, and hydroxyproline. Glycine – the amino acid found at the highest levels in collagen, requires more serine than our bodies can naturally produce. Studies suggest the need for glycine supplementation to achieve ideal metabolic processes. Proline – a non-essential amino acid synthesised from glycine and important in function of joints and tendons Hydroxyproline – an amino acid that plays an essential role in the stability of collagen Alanine – the amino acid used in the biosynthesis of proteins Collagen Type II is produced by chondrocytes (the non-cellular matrix of cartilage) – a liquid-like filling within the cartilage. Why supplement with collagen if it already naturally occurs in the body? Over time, the ideal levels of collagen our bodies naturally produce begin to wane. Collagen fibres break down or no longer regenerate, and lead to a “deflation” effect on the surface of the skin. The diminishing effects of reduced collagen Type II are less obvious and often go unnoticed or are considered “normal” for the ageing process. Research indicates that by the age of 40, the body’s ability to produce collagen decreases by 25%. By age 60, it has decreased by over 50%. Despite being made up of some non-essential amino acids, the supply of ideal levels of naturally occurring collagen cannot meet the demand. Though it is possible to obtain extra collagen through diet (consuming a fair amount of animal products such as gelatinous meats, the cartilage on bones such as chicken drumsticks, and skin from poultry), it is very difficult to eat enough to support the body’s growing requirements. Collagen Types I & III for Hair, Skin, Nails, and Bones minimise fine lines and wrinkles improve elasticity support the bone matrix (36% of bone is made up of collagen Type 1 and 3) correct weak or damaged nail beds thicken fine hair, slows hair loss improve circulation promote glycine production which builds leans muscle and helps burn fat during sleep increases skin hydration by 28% decreases micro-furrows by 26% increases skin suppleness by 19% Collagen Type II for Joint and Cartilage Support makes up 50-60% of protein in cartilage makes up 85-90% of collagen in articular cartilage may reduce popping knees may support back, jaw, and joints includes glucosamine, chondroitin, and hyaluronic acid We suggest taking Type II Collagen at bedtime on an empty stomach. To improve effectiveness, do not take in conjunction with Type I & III. High-quality collagen is appropriate and beneficial for adults of all ages. Our Pure Hydrolysed Collagen is the best there is – grass-fed, non-GMO, no hormones or steroids and 100% pure. Get yours from our online store here.
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