Health Blog
Health Blog
When your period and PMS feel extra intense – try this
Does your body feel different in the days before your period? Maybe you get more tired than usual, feel low, anxious, or easily irritated without really knowing why. Maybe you get stomach pain, bloating, or have trouble sleeping. You’re not alone. And you’re not broken. PMS is common. But that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through every month. Here you’ll find practical tips that can help, whether you have PMS regularly or just sometimes feel it would be nice to slow down. What really happens in the body before your period? After ovulation, progesterone increases. This hormone usually feels calming. At the same time, estrogen drops, which affects mood, blood sugar, and how the body handles fluid and inflammation. If the body is already a bit out of balance, for example due to stress, lack of nutrients, a tired gut, or uneven blood sugar, these hormonal changes can become more noticeable. The point isn’t to push away the cycle. On the contrary. When you support your body, you can move through the phase with more understanding and less resistance. What can you do to feel better? There’s no one answer that works for everyone. We’re all different, and what feels good for you might not work for someone else. But there are four areas that often make a difference for many. Support your gut and liver The body breaks down excess hormones in the liver and sends them out through the intestines. If this process doesn’t work properly, symptoms can become worse. You can support your body by: Eat more fiber, preferably from vegetables, whole grains, and legumes Get probiotics, for example from sauerkraut or supplements Eat bitter foods like arugula, dandelion, and turmeric Drink enough water and keep your digestion moving Keep your blood sugar stable When blood sugar fluctuates a lot, it often affects both mood and energy. Then you can try: Eat enough protein and fat at every meal Refuel with slow-release carbohydrates Avoid going too long without eating Cut back on sugar in the days before your period Give the nervous system a chance to recover Before your period, many become more sensitive to stimuli and stress. The nervous system therefore needs more space to rest. You can support your body by: Prioritize extra sleep or rest if your nights are disturbed Reduce caffeine and alcohol on days when your body is already working extra hard Take breaks from screens and multitasking Try supplements like magnesium, vitamin B6, or adaptogens like ashwagandha Move – based on how you feel that day Movement can help with both PMS and menstrual cramps. But it’s about finding a pace that suits you right now. Many benefit from: Walking at a gentle pace Low-intensity strength training or yoga Stretching or breathing exercises Sometimes just a few minutes is enough to feel a difference. And when the pain comes? Menstrual cramps in the stomach, back, or legs are common. But that doesn’t mean you have to endure them when relief is possible. Here are some things you can try: Place a heat pad on your stomach or take a warm bath with essential oil Use ginger and turmeric in food or as tea Try magnesium to help tense muscles relax Rest and try not to feel guilty about taking that time for yourself Create a routine that supports you PMS often becomes more manageable when you’ve already prepared things you know your body benefits from. Here are some elements you can include in your own routine. Choose what suits you and adjust as you go. Visible magnesium Having a jar of magnesium out in the open makes it easier to remember to take it. Many find it helps with tense muscles, poor sleep, or anxiety the week before their period. Tea that matches how you feel today An herbal tea can do more than just warm you up. Lemon balm is known for its calming support, ginger for its warming effect, and raspberry leaf is traditionally used in the later phase of the cycle. Choose what feels right for the moment. Food that’s already prepared Nutritious foods containing fiber, fat, and protein help keep blood sugar stable. Having something ready in the fridge makes it easier to eat regularly and avoid fluctuations that often get worse before your period. Seeds and spices with benefits Seeds like sunflower, sesame, and pumpkin contain nutrients like zinc, magnesium, and vitamin E. Spices like turmeric, cinnamon, and cardamom taste great and can also support digestion and blood sugar balance. Reminders you actually use Write down what usually helps you and keep it handy on your phone. It could be taking a break from screens, going outside for a while, or going to bed a little earlier. Having your own list makes it easier to choose something that supports you when you don’t have the energy to think it through. One step at a time You don’t have to do everything at once. You might start by cutting out coffee the week before your period, or adding an extra vegetable to dinner. Or you might do nothing right now but start noticing what affects you. That’s also a step. The body isn’t trying to complicate things. It’s trying to talk to you. And the more you listen, the clearer it becomes what it needs. → Read also: Eating in sync with your body - the food that matches your cycle
Read moreHow to boost your brain with vitamin B12 – even if you eat vegan
Vitamin B12 is a nutrient that affects the brain more than many realize – from memory and focus to mood and mental energy. Here you’ll learn why B12 is so important, how to tell if your body needs more, and how you can support yourself in a safe and natural way – no matter how you eat. Brain love in everyday life Your brain is a sensitive power center. It controls everything from focus and memory to sleep, mood, and hormone balance. When it feels good, life often seems to flow a little easier. Thoughts become clearer, energy more stable, and you feel more like yourself. And one of the nutrients that plays a big role in this? Vitamin B12. A small molecule that does a lot for your mental energy and sharpness. Especially if you eat plant-based, it can be wise to give it a little extra attention. Do you need to think about B12 as a vegan? Yes, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. Vitamin B12 is not naturally found in plant-based foods, which means the body doesn’t get it through food. That’s nothing strange, nothing you’ve missed. That’s just how nature works. The good news is that it’s easy to support the body anyway. A small routine can make a big difference. How much B12 does the body need? B12 is important for the nervous system, memory, concentration, and the production of serotonin and dopamine: two neurotransmitters that make us feel good. Even though the daily need is small in amount, it is great in importance. When the body gets too little B12, it can feel like a kind of fog settles in: you become more tired than usual, have trouble focusing, or feel low without really understanding why. B12 deficiency doesn’t only affect vegans It’s a common misconception that B12 deficiency only applies to those who eat completely plant-based. In fact, even omnivores can have low levels, especially if absorption is reduced due to age, stress, certain medications, or stomach and intestinal problems. Being aware of B12 is therefore important, regardless of diet. Where is B12 naturally found? Vitamin B12 is produced by microorganisms (bacteria) including in the stomach and stored in animal tissues. Therefore, it is naturally found in: liver meat fish eggs and dairy products If you eat completely plant-based, you don’t get much B12 from food. That’s perfectly fine. It just means the body might need a little help along the way. The best way to take B12 when you eat plant-based Some plant-based foods, like oat drinks or nutritional yeast, are fortified with B12. But since amounts vary and absorption isn’t always sufficient, a liquid supplement is the easiest and most reliable way to support the body. You get especially good absorption from the forms methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin, which are the forms the body can use directly. Many also find that lozenges, sprays, or melt-in-the-mouth tablets provide extra good absorption. Want to check your levels? If you’re curious about how your body is doing, a blood test can provide answers. A test that measures active B12 (so-called holotranscobalamin) gives a more reliable picture than a traditional B12 value. Be your own best friend Your brain works for you around the clock, all your life. And it really is so much more than an organ. The brain holds your thoughts, feelings, and memories. It is you, and you deserve to take care of yourself in the best way every day.
Read moreWhy we say no to certain products – this is how we think at Glimja
Behind every product in our store lies a decision. And sometimes, it’s a no. Maybe you’ve noticed that some products never appear with us, even though they’re trending everywhere right now. Stylish packaging. Natural promises. Professional campaigns that pop up in your feed again and again. And yet, they’re not here with us. You’re not alone in wondering why. We often get questions about exactly that – why we choose to exclude products and brands that other stores sell. For us, it’s not about going against the flow. It’s about making it easier for you to find your way in the health jungle. In a time when concepts like longevity and long-term health are increasingly discussed, we believe it’s especially important not to chase quick fixes, but to choose products that the body benefits from over time. Here’s how we think. We scrutinize so you don’t have to Have you ever tried googling ingredients you can barely pronounce? Opened fifteen tabs with reviews and still felt more uncertain than before? We know exactly how that feels. It’s not enough for something to seem natural. Beneath the surface, there are often cheap raw materials, unclear manufacturers, and ingredients the body doesn’t love. It may look good, but still not be so. That’s exactly why we exist. To sift through hundreds of options, examine every detail, and only select what we truly believe in. So you can feel confident. And avoid doing all that work yourself. And yes, that means we say no more often than we say yes. What makes us say yes? Every product that ends up with us has passed a thorough review – not by an algorithm, but by real people. Our health experts look at everything from ingredients to manufacturing and how it feels in the body. To get a yes, this is required: No questionable additives Nothing unnecessary, nothing we can’t stand behind. We say no to things the body doesn’t benefit from – like synthetic colorants, titanium dioxide, magnesium stearate, and sweeteners such as aspartame or acesulfame K. Curious about the full list? Here you’ll find everything we exclude.Prohibited substances & additives Never unpleasant substances With us, you won’t find products containing substances that may be hormone-disrupting, environmentally harmful, or irritating to the skin or body. Whether it’s supplements, facial cream, or laundry detergent. It’s a safety we never compromise on. High quality – every time We always compare with other options in the same price range. If a product doesn’t meet the standard, it doesn’t make the cut. Even if it’s popular right now. Clear answers from the manufacturer We only collaborate with brands that share our values. If we don’t get to know where, how, or with what a product is made – or if the answers feel evasive – we say no. Honest communication We want it to be easy to understand what you’re getting. If a product is marketed in a way that feels unclear or raises questions about content or effects, we don’t proceed. Behind every decision are real people Our health experts do the initial review. But it doesn’t stop there. The next step? We test ourselves. How does the product feel in the body? How does it work in everyday life? What do our own experiences say? And we don’t let go after launch. We follow up – always. New ingredients, changed formulas, research, feedback from you customers. If something no longer meets the standard, it’s removed. And then we’re happy to explain why. Because you have the right to know. You shouldn’t have to be a chemist – that’s our job We want you to be able to shop with confidence. Without having to scrutinize every ingredient list or wonder what’s hiding behind a pretty name. Whether you’re looking for a supplement, laundry detergent for the kids’ clothes, or a cream for sensitive skin, you should feel that someone has already done the work. That’s our responsibility. And we’re happy to do it. Curious about which products have made it all the way? Here you’ll find our most loved products – carefully selected, reviewed, and cherished. Feel free to explore at your own pace: Supplements Health foods Facial care Cleaning and laundry Kitchen
Read moreLongevity – what does it really mean?
Is it really about living longer? Or living better? Longevity. You’ve probably heard the word. It’s popping up everywhere right now. Another health trend, you might think? But here at Glimja, longevity, or lifelong health as we prefer to say, is nothing new. We have been thinking long-term for over 20 years. In a world where many live longer but feel worse, lifelong health is more relevant than ever to talk about. For us, it’s not about slowing aging with extreme methods. We will all age (and isn’t that wonderful?). But we can support the body so it can do what it’s built for: age well. With joy, mobility, and energy that lasts. We understand that longevity can sometimes feel... exclusive. Like something for those who have all the time in the world or unlimited resources. We don’t agree. Lifelong health should be accessible to everyone, for you who want to feel good now and in the future. And above all, it should be simple. What does longevity really mean? You might think of someone chasing eternal life. But that’s not what it’s about. In practice, it’s more about quality of life than lifespan (although one doesn’t exclude the other). Being able to get up easily from the floor. Continuing with your hobbies. Playing with children and grandchildren. Moving freely and feeling strong. Feeling joy and curiosity without pain or constant fatigue. Seeing yourself in the mirror and recognizing your gaze, even if you no longer look 30. Feeling clear, stable, and in touch with your body. Imagine that in some parts of the world it’s not uncommon for 90-year-olds to still herd goats in mountainous terrain. Old but healthy. Isn’t that incredibly inspiring? And no, they hardly live like biohackers with ice baths in the garden or scheduled IV drips. And you don’t have to either. Common focus areas within longevity You obviously don’t have to do everything at once. But if you’re curious about what lifelong health can mean in practice, here are some areas that often come up when talking about longevity. Cell health and antioxidants The body works hard every day, and our cells are constantly busy with everything from creating energy to repairing damage. But they are also affected by stress, environment, diet, and age. Here, antioxidants like vitamin C, zinc, or polyphenols from plants can be helpful. An easy way to give the body a little more of what it’s already trying to do. Nervous system and recovery Feeling tense, scattered, or “on” all the time is common, and often a sign that the nervous system is running at high speed. Here, magnesium, adaptogens like ashwagandha or certain herbs in the evening can help. Not as a solution to everything, but as simple support when you need help with recovery. Brain, memory, and focus When the brain isn’t functioning well, it affects almost everything, from patience to work ability and self-esteem. If your thoughts are scattered, fatigue feels constant, or memory is fuzzy, it might be wise to look at how the brain gets nutrition and support. B12, omega-3, and phosphatidylserine are substances often mentioned, especially during stress, plant-based diets, or increasing age. Stomach and digestion The gut affects much more than digestion. It influences how we feel mentally, how we absorb nutrients, and how steady our energy levels stay. Lactic acid bacteria, bitters, or liver-supporting herbs are common choices for those who want to start giving their stomach a little more attention. Nothing drastic, but sometimes it’s enough that the stomach works a little better for everything to feel better. Inflammation and the body’s balance Inflammation itself is not dangerous – it’s the body’s way of responding to stress. But when it continues at low intensity for a long time, it can start affecting us more than we notice. Here, turmeric, Q10, and black cumin are common choices to support the body and what it’s trying to regulate. Blood sugar and energy levels Dips, irritability, or lack of energy during the day? It often has to do with blood sugar – and it’s not always the food itself that’s the problem, but the rhythm, sleep, or lack of recovery. Adding more fiber, fat, and protein is a good start. For those who want, supplements like cinnamon, chromium, or magnesium may be worth exploring. Hormonal balance After 35, many things start to change, even if it’s not always noticeable right away. For many, it comes in the form of mood swings, sleep, energy, or cycle changes. It doesn’t have to mean something is wrong – but regardless, the body sometimes needs help to find balance again. Many experience help from adaptogens, omega-3, B vitamins, or herbs depending on where they are in life. Movement and strength Keeping the body moving is far from just about fitness. It’s about maintaining the ability to live life as you want, even later on. Especially strength training is key here. Lifting heavy, relative to your own capacity, strengthens not only muscles but also bones, hormones, blood sugar, and brain health. For women after 35, especially before and during menopause, it’s one of the most powerful tools we have to age well and stay healthy. It doesn’t have to be complicated, but it needs to happen. And you can start right where you are. Community and connection Relationships are so important and affect how we feel, both mentally and physically. In many of the societies where people live the longest and feel good well into old age, it’s not just the food or movement that stands out, but how people live together. They socialize across generations, have daily contact with friends or family, help each other. This often contrasts greatly with how we live in our part of the world. But we humans feel better when we have someone to talk to, share everyday life with, or just feel close to. Feeling like you belong somewhere is an important part of health, no matter how old you are. We have seen trends come and go And one important thing we’ve learned is that the most sustainable choices are often the most basic. Nutrition the body recognizes. Enough sleep. Sunlight. Movement. Community. And if you want to complement with supplements? Choose ones without junk. What is a good first step? We would say... Start by adding, not removing. Often it’s easier to start with something small that doesn’t require much energy and doesn’t feel like yet another demand. Feel which area feels most relevant to you right now. Or what feels exciting. Maybe it’s sleep, and you start going to bed half an hour earlier. If you feel tense, you can start with a short breathing break during the day. Maybe you want to eat more colorful food and add vegetables to your plate (think rainbow colors). Stuck in front of the screen all day? Take a lunch walk – for the natural light and the thoughts that get to run free. Or you feel your body needs a little push in the right direction and find a supplement that becomes a new habit. Here we have gathered our most popular products that are often used as part of a long-term health journey. Want guidance? Our Customer Happiness team consists of real people with knowledge who care. You are warmly welcome to get in touch.
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