Articles
Introducing Gentle Day feminine hygiene products
Being a woman is one of life’s greatest gifts. Over the course of our lives here at Sally-Ann Creed, we’ve come to cherish the strength, intuition, and deep capacity for nurturing that flows through us all. We carry an innate wisdom in our bodies—a connection to cycles, seasons, and the rhythms of life itself. As women, we experience the world with remarkable depth, feeling emotions richly and loving fiercely. This privilege of womanhood extends to our ability to create, nurture, and transform. Not just through motherhood, but through the countless ways we touch and heal the world around us. A message from our MD, Tori Finkelstein: 2026 has kicked off with real momentum here at the Sally-Ann Creed office. My team and I have been deep in research and formulation mode, developing some truly exciting new products that we can’t wait to bring you later this year. As a women-focused wellness company, one theme has been running strongly through everything we do: wellness as a whole. Not just one supplement, one habit, or one solution, but a fully integrated approach that supports the body, mind, and everyday life. One aim this year, is to open more conversation around less open topics that effect every woman. My aim is to bring more normalcy to these previously very delicate female specific topics, that effect both female and male in different ways. Nutrition first is the core of our philosophy, with supplements used only where truly needed, and then only those made with the purest, highest-quality ingredients possible. But wellness doesn’t stop there. What about all the other elements of modern life, the environmental stressors, daily exposures, and hidden disruptors that come into contact with our bodies every single day? A few months ago, I attended a wellness event where I was introduced to a brand of female sanitary wear that genuinely stopped me in my tracks. These products were produced by Gentle Day, a company designed to support women’s needs during menstruation and well beyond. On average, most women menstruate for approximately 35 to 40 years of their lives. That’s decades of repeated exposure, particularly in our incredibly sensitive vaginal area, to sanitary products that often contain harmful chemicals, synthetic materials, fragrances, and irritants. Many conventional options leak, retain odour, and require constant changing and maintenance throughout the day and night, adding yet another layer of stress to an already demanding time of the month. After personally switching to Gentle Days products, I noticed a significant difference in my own menstrual experience (which I honestly didn’t think was possible). Their products are non-toxic, chemical-free, and made without unnecessary additives. They are exceptionally comfortable, highly absorbent, and genuinely effective. I stay completely dry, experience no odour, and have had no issues with leaking. Thanks to their superior absorbency, I’ve also been able to halve the number of products I use per day, requiring far less frequent changing throughout both day and night. As women, we know that the need for sanitary protection goes far beyond menstruation alone. One topic that has remained taboo for far too long is female incontinence, often, but not exclusively, associated with childbirth. Even a small laugh, cough, or sneeze can leave women feeling anxious or self-conscious. Yes, you are not alone. As a mom of two beautiful children, Gentle Days panty liners have provided me with discreet, reliable protection, allowing me to stay dry, comfortable, and confident throughout the entire day. Whether it’s for yourself, your daughter, your mother, your niece, I assure you, you will not be disappointed in the change. Honouring your cycle means honouring your body with the purest, most nurturing care possible All our love, ❤️ Tori & the Sally-Ann Creed Team
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Constipation - the uncomfortable truth
Bowel habits are a crucial indicator of a person’s overall well-being. They can become disturbed when a person is out of their natural environment. In the hospital setting, several factors influence patients’ bowel movements, including changes in diet and fluid intake, reduced mobility, certain medications, psychological stress, and disruptions to their everyday routine. The Bristol Stool Chart is a clinical assessment tool (used in hospitals and clinics) that was made in 1997. There are 7 types of stools (poop) according to the chart. The type depends on how long it is spent in your colon. What you see in the toilet reflects your diet, fluid intake, medication and lifestyle. We’re all a little different, but the goal is to have stools that are soft, easy to pass and regular like type 3 or 4 on the chart. Type 1-2 indicate constipation, Type 3-4 are ideal stools as they are easier to pass Type 5-7 may indicate diarrhoea and urgency We often hear the term “being regular”, but what does it really mean when it comes to gut health? A healthy bowel doesn’t mean you have to go every day. It’s totally normal to have a bowel movement: Anywhere from 3 times a day to 3 times a week As long as it’s comfortable, well-formed, and easy to pass So, being “regular” is more about how you go than how often. Signs of a good bowel function in adults: You can hold it for a little while after feeling the urge Once you sit down, you’re able to go within about a minute You don’t need to strain and the stool isn’t hard or dry You feel fully empty after, no need to go again right away What about kiddies? Children are often trained by around 3 years old but of course occasional accidents can happen. Why do kiddies soil? It’s actually usually linked to constipation. If poo builds up in the bowel, it can “stretch” the bowel and reduce the urge to go. Soft or runny stools can leak out around hard stools and you might see “skid marks” or full accidents, even if it seems like the child isn’t constipated. And please know, this is more common than you think. If this continues, it’s a good idea to chat to your local paediatrician or dietitian. They can help identify whether hydration, fibre intake or emotional factors may be playing a role. Sources: Yaseen S, Abuelass F (2026) Continence Health Australia (2024)
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The new Dietary Guidelines for Americans (2025-2030)
“The consequences have been devastating. More than 70% of American adults are overweight or obese. Nearly one in three American adolescents between the ages of 12 and 17 has prediabetes. Diet-driven chronic disease now disqualifies large numbers of young Americans from military service” The new US Dietary Guidelines for Americans (2025-2030) have been released, and as with any major nutrition guideline update, there’s already plenty of discussion, debate and differing opinions. And that’s great! But, at Sally-Ann Creed, we’re not here for politics or headlines. We’re here for science. We’ve taken time to read the guidance, look at the evidence it’s built on and consider what it means in real life, because “what works on paper” and “what works for a human being with a busy life, preferences, culture, budget and health goals” aren’t always the same thing. The pyramid itself One reason these guidelines often feel controversial isn’t because the science is new, it’s because the way the guidance is visualised. Food pyramids are designed to communicate population-level advice quickly. But when people see certain foods placed prominently in a pyramid, it can feel like: “This is all I’m allowed to eat.” In reality, these visuals are not intended to dictate exact portions, exclude foods or prescribe strict meal plans. They show relative emphasis, not rules. What these models cannot account for is individual blood sugar regulation, appetite control, physical activity, cultural eating patterns, food access or personal health goals. This is where individualised nutrition matters. Where there is broad agreement: Nutrition works best when we look at the whole dietary patterns, not single nutrients in isolation. Dietary quality matters more than chasing individual foods or supplements. Adequate protein is important at every stage of life. There is growing concern about the health effects of highly and ultra-processed foods. There should be a shift towards prevention rather than cure. Large, well-designed studies repeatedly show that diets rich in vegetables and fruit, legumes and whole grains, nuts and seeds and quality protein sources are linked to a lower risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and early mortality. This reflects how nutrition science has evolved over time. Rather than focusing narrowly on single nutrients, the emphasis has shifted toward how foods are eaten together, the quality of the diet as a whole, and what supports health long-term and sustainably (Talegawkar et al 2024). As noted in the evidence underpinning the guidelines, diets should prioritise whole, nutrient-dense foods such as protein, dairy, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats and whole grains, while significantly reducing highly processed foods that are often high in refined carbohydrates, added sugars, excess sodium, unhealthy fats and chemical additives. Now let’s look a bit more into the individual macro nutrients: Carbohydrates: The Dietary Guidelines are not prescriptive meal plans, nor do they promote carbohydrate restriction, although the visual pyramid can sometimes create confusion. Their emphasis is on: Improving carbohydrate quality. Limiting added sugars and refined products. Encouraging fibre-rich carbohydrate sources within balanced dietary patterns. This distinction is often lost in public conversation. The focus is not “no carbs” but better carbs. The guidelines support carbohydrates that contribute fibre, micronutrients and metabolic health, rather than refined, highly processed options. Carbohydrate quality also plays a key role in gut health. Your gut contains trillions of microorganisms that influence digestion, immunity and metabolic function. Diets high in highly processed foods can disrupt this balance, while vegetables, fruit, fermented foods (such as sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir and miso) and fibre-rich foods support a more diverse and resilient microbiome. Greater microbial diversity is increasingly associated with better health outcomes. Protein: While earlier dietary guidance was often interpreted as discouraging higher protein intake in favour of carbohydrate-heavy patterns, the current guidelines align more closely with the scientific evidence by emphasising high-quality, nutrient-dense protein at every meal. This includes a variety of animal-based sources such as eggs, poultry, seafood and red meat, alongside plant-based proteins including beans, peas, lentils, legumes, nuts, seeds and soy foods. Adequate protein intake is recognised as essential across the lifespan for muscle health, metabolic function, satiety and overall resilience. Highly processed foods: For the first time, the Dietary Guidelines directly highlight the health concerns associated with certain highly processed foods. The guidance recommends avoiding “highly processed packaged, prepared, ready-to-eat or other foods that are salty or sweet,” and specifically advises against sugar-sweetened beverages such as sodas, fruit drinks and energy drinks. Previous guidelines were often criticised for being vague around added sugars, particularly in early childhood. The updated guidance takes a clearer position, stating that no amount of added sugars or non-nutritive sweeteners is recommended or considered part of a healthy dietary pattern, and strongly advises parents to avoid added sugars entirely for children aged four years and under. Fat: Rather than focusing on fat reduction, the guidelines emphasise fat quality. They recommend that most dietary fat come from whole-food sources such as meat, poultry, eggs, omega-3 rich seafood, nuts, seeds, full-fat dairy, olives and avocados. When fats are added during cooking or preparation, the guidance supports using nutrient-dense options with essential fatty acids, such as olive oil. This reflects a continued shift away from blanket low-fat messaging toward a more nuanced, evidence-based understanding of dietary fat. Taken together, the 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines reinforce a message that has been building for years: diets must prioritise whole, nutrient-dense foods and significantly reduce reliance on highly processed products. Paired with improved protein adequacy and better carbohydrate quality, this approach has the potential to meaningfully shift long-term health outcomes. The most effective diet is not the one that looks best on a pyramid, but the one that can be sustained long-term while supporting metabolic health, strength and overall wellbeing. We’d love to know what you think about the pyramid. If you have thoughts, questions or reflections, please send us an email, we’d love to hear from you. Sources: Talegawkar S, Tobias D, Fung T, Giovannucci E, Hoelscher DM, Anderson CAM, Booth S, Deierlein A, Gardner C, Raynor H, Stanford FC, Taylor C, English LK, Reigh N, Higgins M, Butera G, Callahan E, Huang S, Raghavan R, Terry N, Obbagy J. Dietary Patterns and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review . Alexandria (VA): USDA Nutrition Evidence Systematic Review; 2024 Nov. PMID: 39817923. Ahmad S, Moorthy MV, Demler OV, et al. Assessment of Risk Factors and Biomarkers Associated With Risk of Cardiovascular Disease Among Women Consuming a Mediterranean Diet. JAMA Netw Open. 2018;1(8):e185708. Published 2018 Dec 7. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2018.5708 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Fact Sheet: Historic Reset of Federal Nutrition Policy. 2025. Available here https://cdn.realfood.gov/DGA.pdf
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All about Akkermansia
Gut health is a major focus in modern nutrition science. This is because the gut plays a huge role in your immunity, nutrient absorption, metabolism and communication with the rest of the body. That’s why interest in the gut microbiome has grown so rapidly. Among the trillions of microbes that live in the gut, certain species appear to play a more specialised role in supporting gut function and metabolic signalling. If you’ve been hearing more about Akkermansia muciniphila it’s because this unique gut bacterium has shown incredible gut barrier function, metabolic signalling and microbiome health, with human clinical research to support its role. It’s also one of the few so-called “next-generation” gut microbes to be studied in supplement form. Where is Akkermansia muciniphila found? Akkermansia muciniphila is a natural resident of the human gut and was first isolated in 2004, when researchers began identifying microbes that interact directly with the gut’s protective mucus layer. In healthy adults, Akkermansia is estimated to make up around 1-3% of the total intestinal microbiota. While that may sound like a small proportion, its location gives it an outsized influence. Rather than floating freely in the gut, Akkermansia lives in the mucus layer of the large intestine (colon), right next to the gut lining. The mucus layer is the gut’s “protective gel coating” or a physical barrier that helps separate the body from the contents of the digestive tract. Here’s what makes Akkermansia unique: It feeds on mucin, the main building block of this mucus layer In response, the body produces more mucin This helps maintain a strong, healthy gut barrier This discovery reinforced a now well-established concept in nutrition science: the gut microbiota plays an important role in maintaining human health by influencing metabolism and gut barrier function. In population studies, people with higher levels of Akkermansia often show signs of healthier metabolism, such as better blood sugar control, improved insulin sensitivity and lower inflammation. On the other hand, those with lower levels are more likely to show metabolic challenges, including higher blood sugar, insulin resistance and weight gain around the waist. This doesn’t mean Akkermansia causes these outcomes but the association has been observed consistently across multiple studies. Several factors influence Akkermansia levels: Higher fibre intake Colourful, polyphenol-rich plant foods such as berries, pomegranate, cocoa and green tea A generally diverse, plant-rich eating pattern Certain prebiotic fibres, including fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and galactooligosaccharides (GOS), have also been shown to increase Akkermansia levels in some individuals. What is postbiotic Akkermansia? You may be familiar with probiotics (live bacteria), but postbiotics are different. Postbiotics are defined as non-living microorganisms or their components that provide health benefits. In the case of Akkermansia, postbiotic formats typically use pasteurised (heat-inactivated) Akkermansia muciniphila. While the bacteria are no longer alive, their structural components remain intact and can still interact with the gut lining. Akkermansia’s benefits appear to come largely from how it communicates with the gut lining, rather than from colonising the gut long-term like traditional probiotics. Benefits of postbiotic Akkermansia: Interact with the gut mucus layer and gut lining cells Support gut barrier signalling Influence metabolic and immune communication pathways Human research shows in a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial pasteurised Akkermansia muciniphila was shown to be safe and well tolerated over three months, with improvements in insulin sensitivity and cholesterol markers in overweight, insulin-resistant adults. Is it safe? Yes. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has published scientific opinions concluding that pasteurised Akkermansia is safe (of course not all populations would be suited eg young children, immunocompromised, oncology patients etc). This independent safety assessment provides an added layer of reassurance for consumers. Why choose a postbiotic Akkermansia supplement? As we always say, diet remains the foundation of gut health. Having said that, a postbiotic Akkermansia supplement can be helpful because: You can’t get Akkermansia from food (it’s not found in fermented foods or standard probiotics) Stability and tolerance (because the bacteria are inactivated, postbiotics don’t need to survive digestion and are often perceived as gentler) Our targeted formulation combines: 20 billion TFU of postbiotic Akkermansia muciniphila AKK001 350 mg FOS (fructooligosaccharides), a well-studied prebiotic fibre This dual approach is designed to deliver the studied functional components of Akkermansia, as well as support a fibre-nourished gut environment that benefits the wider microbiome. Rather than focusing on digestion alone, this formula is designed to support gut barrier resilience and metabolic communication- two areas where Akkermansia appears to play a uniquely important role. Sources: Cani PD, de Vos WM. Next-generation beneficial microbes: the case of Akkermansia muciniphila. Front Microbiol. 2017;8:1765. Published September 22, 2017. doi:10.3389/fmicb.2017.01765 Thursby E, Juge N. Introduction to the human gut microbiota. Biochem J. 2017;474(11):1823-1836. Published 2017 May 16. doi:10.1042/BCJ20160510 Geerlings SY, Kostopoulos I, de Vos WM, Belzer C. Akkermansia muciniphila in the human gastrointestinal tract: when, where, and how? Microorganisms. 2018;6(3):75. doi:10.3390/microorganisms6030075 Everard A, Belzer C, Geurts L, Ouwerkerk JP, Druart C, Bindels LB, Guiot Y, Derrien M, Muccioli GG, Delzenne NM, de Vos WM, Cani PD. Cross-talk between Akkermansia muciniphila and intestinal epithelium controls diet-induced obesity. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2013 May 28;110(22):9066-71. doi: 10.1073/pnas.1219451110. Epub 2013 May 13. PMID: 23671105; PMCID: PMC3670398. Dao MC, Everard A, Aron-Wisnewsky J, Sokolovska N, Prifti E, Verger EO, Kayser BD, Levenez F, Chilloux J, Hoyles L; MICRO-Obes Consortium; Dumas ME, Rizkalla SW, Doré J, Cani PD, Clément K. Akkermansia muciniphila and improved metabolic health during a dietary intervention in obesity: relationship with gut microbiome richness and ecology. Gut. 2016 Mar;65(3):426-36. doi: 10.1136/gutjnl-2014-308778. Epub 2015 Jun 22. PMID: 26100928. Liu E, Ji X, Zhou K. Akkermansia muciniphila for the Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity: A Meta-Analysis of Animal Studies. Nutrients. 2024 Oct 11;16(20):3440. doi: 10.3390/nu16203440. PMID: 39458436; PMCID: PMC11510203. Depommier C, Everard A, Druart C, et al. Supplementation with Akkermansia muciniphila in overweight and obese human volunteers: a proof-of-concept exploratory study. Nat Med. 2019;25(7):1096-1103. doi:10.1038/s41591-019-0495-2 EFSA NDA Panel (EFSA Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens). Scientific opinion on the safety of pasteurised Akkermansia muciniphila as a novel food pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283. EFSA J. 2021;19(9):6780. doi:10.2903/j.efsa.2021.6780 EFSA NDA Panel (EFSA Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens). Safety of the extension of use of 3-fucosyllactose (3-FL) as a novel food pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283. EFSA J. 2025;23(4):e9370. doi:10.2903/j.efsa.2025.9370
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What you need to know about Diverticulitis
Most people only hear about diverticulitis when something goes wrong. A scan might show “small pouches” in the bowel or someone goes to emergency with lower-left abdominal pain. But this condition is far more common and far more manageable than many realise. With the right information, you can spot symptoms early, understand flare-ups and make diet and lifestyle choices that support long-term gut health. The broader term diverticular disease covers both diverticulosis and diverticulitis. Diverticulosis: This means small bulges (diverticula) have formed in the wall of the colon. They’re especially common after age 40 or 50. Most people never feel them and only find out during a routine colonoscopy or scan. Diverticulosis is the “quiet” stage of the condition. Diverticulitis: This is when one or more of those pouches becomes inflamed or infected. This is the stage that causes symptoms. Pain is usually sharp or constant and sits in the lower-left abdomen. Fever, nausea, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea or even vomiting may follow. A way to remember is that “itis” means inflammation. What causes diverticular disease? We used to blame just “not enough fibre”, but now we know it’s more complex. Current research suggest it develops due to a combination of factors such as bowel structure, genetics, lifestyle and the gut microbiome. Chronic constipation A long term low fibre diet Obesity and physical inactivity Age: The wall of the colon naturally changes with age, pressure inside the bowel plus areas of weakness can cause pouches to form over time. Certain medication use Symptoms of diverticulitis: During diverticulitis, symptoms may come suddenly or gradually: Sudden or gradual abdominal pain Painful or straining when passing stool Fever, feeling unwell Nauseas and vomiting Constipation or diarrhoea Loss of appetite Blood in the stool If you think you or someone special you know might have diverticulitis, then the usual approach is proper medical diagnosis. This often includes a doctor’s assessment, blood tests to check for infection and sometimes imaging like a CT scan. Thereafter, treatment would involve rest for the inflamed bowel, antibiotics if needed and a clinical modified diet such as a low fibre or temporary liquid diet until the inflammation settles. A dietitian or nutrition doctor specialist will be best to assist with an individualised diet. Once recovered, the focus shifts to gradually reintroducing fibre and supporting long-term gut health to help prevent future flare-ups. Note: A low-fibre diet is only required during diverticulitis (the inflamed, painful stage) and should be used short term to help the bowel rest. Once symptoms improve, fibre should be slowly reintroduced, and in the long term, a higher-fibre diet is actually recommended to support gut health and reduce the risk of future flare-ups. Diet and diverticular disease: what does the evidence say? “Avoid nuts, seeds, popcorn” is outdated (for both diverticulosis and after diverticulitis). Multiple sources and guidelines say there’s no evidence that nuts/seeds/popcorn cause flares. “Intake of peanuts, nuts, and seeds and fresh fruits with edible seeds was not associated with incident diverticulitis.” (Barlowe et al 2025). Fibre is consistently linked with lower risk of developing diverticular disease, but after an episode the picture is a bit more mixed. That said, fibre still plays an important role in overall gut health and bowel regularity. What most doctors and dietitians still recommend once symptoms have settled, is aiming for a fibre-rich eating pattern, focusing on whole foods like vegetables, fruit, legumes, whole grains, nuts and seeds. Food always comes first, but fibre supplements can be helpful if someone struggles to meet their needs through diet alone. Overall diet pattern matters also (not just fibre), a more “Western” pattern and lower risk with more fruit, veg, whole grains and legumes. Ensure to drink lots of water and stay hydrated to prevent constipation and soften the stool. Being active will help with bowel movement. The goal is to help with inflammation control, gut barrier support, bowel regularity and diet quality. So supplements will never replace medical care but will support you: Probiotics may assist with symptom control such as bloating and bowel regularity in diverticulosis but must be taken with medical supervision in a flare or diverticulitis. L-Glutamine supports intestinal integrity and is also fuel for our enterocytes (the cells of the intestinal lining). Also not to be used during acute flare unless doctor/dietitian prescribed. Omega 3 is often recommended to assist with reducing overall inflammation. Fibre supplements such as psyllium husk powder may be recommended to help with stool regularity and consistency. Other supplements that the health professional may recommend will be slippery elm, turmeric (curcumin), magnesium citrate (helpful with bowel regularity) and zinc carnosine (supports gut barrier function). What about collagen? Collagen provides specific amino acids such as glycine, proline and hydroxyproline, which are important building blocks for connective tissue and the gut lining. In theory, these amino acids support gut barrier structure and repair, which is why collagen is often spoken about in the context of gut health. But collagen has not been studied to be a direct treatment plan for diverticular disease, it’s a low residue and easily digested protein, so some people find it a convenient way to add beneficial amino acids, especially when appetite is low or when they’re following a temporary low-fibre/low-residue plan during recovery. The key points to remember: ✅ Diverticular disease is common, manageable and far less frightening once you understand it. ✅ Diverticulosis is common and usually painless. ✅ Diverticulitis is the inflamed, painful stage and needs proper medical care. ✅ A low-fibre diet is short-term only. ✅ Fibre protects the gut long term, but it should be introduced slowly. ✅ Hydration, movement, gut-friendly foods and supplement support (when needed) all play a role in prevention. ✅ Most importantly, every person’s gut is different so personalised advice from a dietitian is ideal.
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What is GlucoGuard?
GlucoGuard is one of our newest and most exciting products. It was developed through the innovative work of scientists who discovered a unique collagen peptide that helps the body manage blood sugar naturally. It’s completely sugar-free, fat-free and derived as a collagen, yet the science behind it is quite remarkable. Most people know collagen for its benefits to skin, joints and hair, but GlucoGuard is a very specific type of collagen peptide. GlucoGuard contains a patented peptide called Nextida™ GC, developed by scientists who discovered that certain collagen-derived peptides can support the body’s own blood-sugar regulation system. Unlike ordinary collagen, this particular peptide works in the gut, where it helps stimulate the release of a natural hormone called GLP-1. How GlucoGuard works GLP-1 plays a major role in how your body handles sugar after you eat, it slows down stomach emptying, helps insulin work more efficiently and promotes a sense of fullness after a meal. By supporting this natural pathway, GlucoGuard helps smooth the sharp rises and falls in blood sugar that many people experience after eating, without any artificial ingredients or stimulants. 5g taken 20-30 minutes before a meal, the peptide travels to your gut where it naturally encourages the release of certain hormones which supports: How quickly food leaves your stomach Support healthy insulin release Reduce the spike in blood sugar after meals Signals fullness to your brain, helping you feel satisfied sooner In other words, it does not “force” your body to do anything unnatural. It simply helps your system work the way it’s meant to. The research This special peptide was identified after years and years of studies. They screened hundreds of natural peptide sequences “and found one unique profile could influence GLP-1 activity in a positive way. As stated by Grasset et al. (2024) “A selection of specifically developed collagen hydrolysates was screened for their ability to enhance natural GLP‐1 production in vitro.” They then tested the selected peptide in normogenic animal models and pre-diabetic mice, the peptide increased active GLP-1 after dosing (217% in normogenic group and 860% in the pre-diabetic group). After seeing the benefit, scientists have since done a small, but incredible, study in 16 humans (mix of normoglycaemic and pre-diabetic). Participants took the peptide 30 minutes before a mixed meal at 5g or 10g doses. Glucose spike: Both 5g and 10g lowered the post-meal glucose spike, with an average reduction of 42% versus placebo Effects were measurable immediately after the meal when the peptide was taken beforehand. A larger human study is in the pipeline and we are looking forward to seeing even more detailed results on how this remarkable collagen peptide supports post-meal glucose control and natural GLP-1 activity. Early findings are incredibly encouraging, showing that even a small, food-based peptide can make a meaningful difference in the way the body handles sugar after meals. How to use GlucoGuard Mix two scoops (about 5g) into water 20-30 minutes before your main meal, ideally the meal with your highest carbohydrate content. It can be used daily, and has a consistency and texture similar to that of collagen. Who might benefit from GlucoGuard Anyone who struggles with mid-afternoon energy dips or sugar cravings Those who feel tired or sluggish after eating Those who want to support balanced insulin and glucose responses Individuals managing insulin resistance or blood-sugar fluctuations Anyone wanting a natural way to support appetite control and steady energy Why we love it Pure collagen peptide- no sugar, fat, fillers or flavourings Backed by human clinical research Safe for daily use and gentle on digestion Heat-stable- easy to use in hot or cold drinks Frequently Asked Questions Q: Can I take GlucoGuard with my regular collagen? A: Yes! GlucoGuard targets blood-sugar balance, while other collagens (like Pure Hydrolysed Collagen or Super Chicken Collagen) focus on skin, joints and general tissue repair. They work beautifully together. Q: Do other proteins have the same effect? A: A 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition concluded that whey pre-meals lower post-meal glucose, slow gastric emptying and raise insulin with typical doses using 20-30g. Whey pre-loads are effective, but they generally require 20-30g protein and add calories. GlucoGuard aims for a similar gut-hormone pathway (supporting GLP-1 signalling) with just 5g of a targeted peptide, no sugar and minimal calories, making it a lower-volume, easier option before meals. Q: Is it suitable for diabetics? A: GlucoGuard is sugar-free and designed to support healthy post-meal glucose levels naturally. If you use glucose-lowering medication, it’s always best to monitor your levels and speak with your healthcare professional first. Q: Can I take it with coffee? A: Absolutely. It dissolves perfectly in hot drinks, and because it’s unflavoured, it won’t affect the taste of your coffee or tea. However, we generally recommend taking it with plain water, rather than with a drink that contains protein, milk or carbohydrates. These nutrients can start digestion early, which may reduce how effectively GlucoGuard reaches the small intestine, the place where it naturally supports GLP-1 release and helps regulate blood sugar. Having it with water 20-30 minutes before your meal gives the best results. Q: Is GlucoGuard a weight-loss product? A: Not directly, but many people notice reduced cravings and improved satiety, which can make maintaining a balanced diet easier over time. References: Smedegaard S, Kampmann U, Ovesen PG, Støvring H, Rittig N. Whey Protein Premeal Lowers Postprandial Glucose Concentrations in Adults Compared with Water-The Effect of Timing, Dose, and Metabolic Status: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Am J Clin Nutr. 2023 Aug;118(2):391-405. doi: 10.1016/j.ajcnut.2023.05.012. Epub 2023 Jun 23. PMID: 37536867. Grasset E, Briand F, Virgilio N, et al. A Specific Collagen Hydrolysate Improves Postprandial Glucose Tolerance in Normoglycemic and Prediabetic Mice and in a First Proof of Concept Study in Healthy, Normoglycemic and Prediabetic Humans. Food Sci Nutr. 2024;12(11):9607-9620. Published 2024 Oct 20. doi:10.1002/fsn3.4538.
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Step off the glucose rollercoaster
Have you ever noticed how your energy feels great after a meal, only to crash a little later, leaving you feeling tired, moody or craving more sugar? That’s the “glucose rollercoaster” at work. And it doesn’t just affect people with diabetes, it affects everyone. Here is what is happening when we have regular spikes. You eat a meal, maybe one especially high in sugar or refined carbs. This will cause your blood sugar levels to rise quickly, which will make you feel temporarily energised and maybe even euphoric. This is the classic sugar high. As a response your body will release insulin, a hormone that helps move sugar out of your bloodstream and into your cells for energy or storage. This is a normal, healthy process. Sometimes, especially after a high-sugar meal, the body may release more insulin than needed, causing blood sugar to drop more sharply than ideal. That’s the dip you see in the rollercoaster graph, the part where the energy boost fades and the crash sets in. Now you feel it. You feel tired, unmotivated and maybe even irritable. Your brain and body register this drop as an energy emergency. It shouts to you “get more energy, FAST!”. So you crave more sugar or carbs, and the cycle repeats. Are you on a glucose rollercoaster? Do you: “Crash” in the afternoon? Feel shaky/irritable if meals are delayed? Need caffeine to “push through” dips? Crave sweets 1-2 hours after meals? Find it hard to stop at one portion of refined carbs (biscuits, pastries, white bread)? Find yourself nibbling on sugary snacks in the evening? Eat carbs alone (toast/juice/pastry without protein)? Skip breakfast or go >5 hours between meals? Have large, late dinners? Sleep worse after sugary or heavy dinners? Wake at night feeling wired or hungry? Have brain fog or poor focus 60-120min after eating? Workouts feel sluggish after a high-carb, low-protein meal? If you answered “yes” to more than 2 questions, that means that you are likely on a roller coaster, time to work on meals and behaviours. NOTE: If you’re metabolically healthy (meaning your body responds well to insulin), these blood sugar swings tend to be milder and better controlled. You might still feel a dip, especially after a high-carb or sugary meal, but it won’t be as dramatic or frequent. However, if you have insulin resistance, prediabetes or poor metabolic flexibility, these ups and downs can become more extreme and harder to recover from. Research shows that these rapid rises and falls can cause: Increase fat storage (especially around the belly) Chronic fatigue Insulin resistance Mood instability and anxiety Poor sleep GLP-1: The hormone everyone’s talking about and how collagen can support it If you’ve heard the buzz around “GLP-1” lately, you’re not alone. From medical journals to social media, everyone is suddenly talking about this incredible gut hormone. GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) is naturally released by your gut after eating. It signals your pancreas to release insulin (helping control blood sugar), slows down gastric emptying (so you feel fuller for longer), and helps reduce cravings and appetite. Natural ways to control your GLP-1 When it comes to controlling your blood sugar, we believe in eating healthy first, and only supplementing when diet simply isn’t enough. Certain nutrients, especially fibre and proteins, trigger your body’s natural GLP-1 production, which is why we often feel fuller after eating a high-protein meal. Fibre: What it does: Viscous (soluble) fibre forms a gel in the gut that slows carbohydrate absorption, which blunts the post meal glucose rises. It also is fermented by gut bacteria, into short chain fatty acids (postbiotics), which directly stimulate these little cells in our intestine, the L-cells, to release GLP-1. In the graph below you can see how fibre can affect the glucose curve. Look at how sugary foods can spike the glucose curve, as well as refined carbs like bread- compared to a meal high in fibre. Oats, barley, legumes, fruit pectins (apples, pears, citrus), vegetables, seeds and functional fibres when needed like psyllium husk, inulin or glycomannan (Skinny Fibre). Try to aim for around 30g of fibre at least a day. Around 5-10g of fibre a meal. Remember to introduce fibre slowly and drink lots of water. Protein: As protein is digested into amino acids/peptides, it activates nutrient-sensing receptors in the gut which then stimulate the GLP-1 release. Specific amino acids are consistently shown to be potent triggers. Pre-meal whey protein can reduce post-meal glucose, partly via incretin effects and slower gastric emptying. Very exciting and new research is showing how cutting the strands of collagen into specific peptides can make its effects more targeted towards glucose-lowering effects. Having a pre-meal whey protein shake, ensuring protein at every meal is a great way to naturally support your GLP-1 system. Foods to help boost your body’s natural GLP-1 production: Protein-rich foods such as free-range, organic meats, poultry, fish, eggs, yogurt, beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds all stimulate GLP-1 release and promote that wonderful feeling of fullness. The research: American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2023) showed that whey protein “pre-meal” lowers post-prandial (post meal) glucose spikes and was proposed to raise GLP-1 levels. Healthy fats, such as the omega-3 fatty acids found in olive oil, avocados, certain nuts (like walnuts), seeds (chia, flax), and fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), increase GLP-1 release and slow stomach emptying. The research: A very interesting study in the journal Nutrients 2022, in people with pre-diabetes, extra virgin olive oil added to a meal, was linked to higher GLP-1 and better insulin response. Fibre, especially soluble fibre in whole grains (oats, barley), legumes, vegetables (artichokes, asparagus, carrots), fruits (apples, oranges, pears, avocados), and seeds, is fermented by gut bacteria into short-chain fatty acids (which then activate receptors in our intestinal cells), which promote GLP-1 secretion. The research: Gut Microbes (2024). Probiotics and fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso and tempeh. These foods definitely support gut health, but at the moment we are still waiting for research to show direct GLP-1 contribution. Dark chocolate (at least 70% cacao) contains flavanols that firstly are great as antioxidants but also may influence gut-hormone signalling, but direct GLP-1 effects in humans aren’t conclusive yet.
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The science behind (and the truth about) our creatine
Here at Sally-Ann Creed, we hold purity and integrity as a core belief. It’s why we use only the best ingredients in our products, and rely on the latest science when offering our advice. Creatine as a product comes with some incorrect preconceptions, and we wanted to clarify some of these for you, especially as we’ve been getting some questions lately. There have been over SIX HUNDRED clinical trials involving more than 13000 people over the last 30 years testing the long-term efficacy and implications of taking creatine. After all these years, and after all these clinical trials have been conducted in humans on both healthy and medically managed populations, there have been NO adverse events reported. In one of the most recent metastudies (a study conducted using the results of other studies), it was found that “When the number of participants reporting side effects was considered from all studies, no significant differences were observed in the frequency of GI issues (PLA 4.05%, Cr 5.51%, p = 0.820), muscle cramping/pain (PLA 0.07%, Cr 0.52%, p = 0.085), or any other of the 33 side effects evaluated, including clinical markers of health and renal function.” In plain english, what that means is that there are no significant side effects from taking creatine. Any suggestion that creatine can cause these adverse side-effects is simply false. Our team has spent MONTHS researching the benefits and possible side-effects of creatine, and both our dietitian and food scientist have given it the big thumbs-up as the benefits (reduced brain fog, more energy, etc) are undeniable. Once we had done our research, we then spent weeks sourcing products from around the world. Because the quality and integrity of our products is so important to us, after much research and deliberation, we chose the purest creatine that we could find. Yes it comes from China, but it’s also as pure as that from Europe, but just more affordable, so that you as the consumer don’t need to pay an arm and a leg for the wonderful benefits of this product. We’re not ashamed of our suppliers, because they’ve been fully vetted and accredited, and always meet or exceed European standards. Our creatine is 99.9% pure. While some creatines may contain high levels of these harmful chemicals, our creatine contains virtually none, and is one of the cleanest creatines you can find: Diacyanimide: <0.005% Creatinine: <0.01% Dihydrotriazine: None Heavy metals: <0.001% FUN FACT: There have been claims that creatine was banned in France due to a cancer risk. The truth is that yes it was, but this was due to an opinion piece (not a clinical study) written by the AFSSA, which was later reversed after proper research proved that there was no proof that creatine caused cancer, and has been on sale ever since. In fact, a 2015 study looking at supplemental creatine of 7g per day for 7 days and then 5g for 23 days does not lead to increase of carcinogenic heterocyclic amines. “Individual analyses revealed that diet, rather than creatine supplementation, was the main responsible factor for HCA formation in these cases. This study provides compelling evidence that both low and high doses of creatine supplementation, given either acutely or chronically, did not cause increases in the carcinogenic HCAs”. The undeniable benefits of creatine: As women enter menopause, their oestrogen levels naturally decline, causing, among other things, brain fog. Creatine has proven to be an incredible way of countering this. People often mistakenly believe that because of this, creatine is a hormone regulator. The great news is that creatine’s positive impact on our brain function helps beat that brain fog, allowing us to better manage our menopausal brain fog and live life to the fullest. Creatine by itself does not cause mass gain. This is a common misconception caused by the fact that many bodybuilders use it as a means to increase their energy levels, and boost recovery. Without weight training, creatine will simply boost the levels of energy-boosting ATP in your body, allowing you to achieve more. As we mentioned at the start of this blog, we trust in science, and we want you to trust us too. We also understand that sometimes fear can be a barrier, so if you’d like to read more about creatine, you can browse over 20 studies listed on our creatine page here. Otherwise, please feel free to email us any questions you might have to our dietitian Carrie-Ann, who will be happy to answer any questions you might have, and hopefully put your mind at ease. All our love, The Sally-Ann Creed team
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