Probiotics are similar to the ‘good bacteria’ that colonize our gut keeping our digestive system in balance. Bacteria are usually thought of as unhealthy micro-organisms that we need to eliminate but these particular bacteria are very important in maintaining healthy digestion and a strong immune system. Probiotics help the good bacteria maintain a healthy balance of intestinal flora. When unfriendly yeasts, bacteria...

Digestive enzymes are present in the digestive tract and saliva and play an essential role in aiding the complete digestion of food. These enzymes work by breaking down macromolecules such as proteins and carbohydrates into smaller building blocks like amino acids, fatty acids, glycerol, starch and sugars. These enzymes are produced by the body and are secreted by the salivary glands, glands in the stomach and pancreas,...

Chronic pain can be a debilitating disorder that seems to come and stay for no apparent reason. Difficult to diagnose and lasting for months on end, it can drag you down making you feel miserable, irritable and cranky. If you find yourself suffering from pain for longer than 3 months you should seek treatment as you may be suffering from chronic pain. Chronic pain is different to acute pain because there isn’t always...

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to harmful triggers such as damaged cells, irritants or pathogens and it usually marks the body’s initiation of the healing process. Inflammation is not the same as infection. Infection can be the cause of inflammation however inflammation is actually the body’s response to the infection. Without inflammation the body would never heal. Wounds and infections would lead...

Vitamin D is essential for normal absorption of calcium and phosphorus which are required for strong bones and teeth. Very small amounts of vitamin D exist in the food and drink we consume, the bulk is actually produced by the body as a reaction to the UV radiation in sunlight. Very low levels of sun exposure can lead to a Vitamin D deficiency, mostly affecting people who spend the majority of time indoors or who cover...

The topic of genetically modified foods is a controversial one at best. Genetically modified foods are those which contain genetically modified organisms (GMO). On one hand we have the ability to make the crops more productive, drought resistant and resistant to disease by modifying the molecular structure. This has the potential of ensuring we have adequate food supply for our growing population but what does it mean...

Celiac disease is an immunological response to the presence of gluten in our diet however the actual cause of the disease is unknown. Some believe that it is a genetic disorder. Whatever the origin it can cause much damage to the intestinal tract and interfere with the absorption of nutrients. It comes with many symptoms, some that don’t even seem related to digestion and it can be very difficult to obtain a confirmed...

This low-calorie food is packed with nutrition, especially when fully ripe. Eat the reddest, ripest fruit for the most benefits. The extremely high lycopene content offers protection against anti-oxidants, heart disease,  cataracts, macular degeneration and cancer. Tomatoes are also loaded with other health-promoting properties, including vitamins A, C, K, chromium, B6, pantothenic acid, niacin, foci acid, as well...

Best when it’s fresh from your local farmers market! Look for smooth skin, bright green color, compact heads, and freshly cut ends. Steam for 5 minutes to retain the most nutrients. They’re rich in Vitamins K and folate, are heart healthy and promote the growth of good gut flora.