Health Blog
Health Blog
Nutrition for healthy skin - Inner balance for outer beauty
The skin is the body’s largest organ and one of our most important elimination organs along with the liver, kidneys, and colon. We get many questions about skin problems. To tackle skin issues, it is important first to identify the underlying cause. It is not enough to just relieve symptoms. Often the underlying problems show up as symptoms like acne, eczema, rosacea, redness, inflammation, dry skin, brittle nails, or premature aging. These symptoms often point to an imbalance that you can adjust. Beauty comes from within In nutritional medicine, the skin is often related to the liver as well as digestive health. When you have an imbalance in these internal organs, it can show through the skin. The key to healthy and radiant skin literally goes through the stomach. Most of us need to review our dietary choices and take the right nutritional supplements to keep our skin happy and radiant. We may also need to do regular detox cures to support the body’s cleansing systems and reduce the burden on the skin. Besides dietary choices, it is also important to:– Avoid harmful substances from conventional skincare products (by using natural and organic skincare).– Balance stress in your life.– Exercise and sweat regularly to help your skin feel its best. What can you eat for healthy skin? Food for radiant skin It is just as important what you choose to avoid as what you choose to put into your body. Foods that disturb your liver and intestines are ultimately also harmful to the skin. Therefore, avoid or minimize**:** Avoid: Sugar Wheat flour Cheap fats like peanut oil, soybean oil, margarine, etc. Very fatty, fried, or sautéed foods in large amounts Artificial flavorings and preservatives. Eat more of: Vegetables rich in beta-carotene, chlorophyll, and antioxidants support the skin by helping the body fight free radicals and protect against external effects from sun, weather, and wind. Especially good are broccoli, tomatoes, green leaves, cucumber, bell pepper, carrots, sprouts, pumpkin, zucchini, celery, sweet potato, cauliflower, cabbage, beets. You can also choose green powder blends if you prefer to get as much green as possible in a simple and concentrated form. For example: E3live, Green Magic, Wheatgrass juice, and Spirulina. Fruits and berries rich in life-giving water, antioxidants, and vitamins help transport nutrients to the skin while clearing away waste products. Examples: avocado, papaya, goji berries, schisandra, apples, banana, lemon, lime, kiwi, pomegranate, pineapple, watermelon, pear. Healthy oils, the skin needs a certain amount of high-quality fatty acids to feel its best. These are good both to eat and to apply to the skin: Olive oil Algae omega-3 Hemp oil Hemp seeds Evening primrose oil Borage oil Coconut oil Black cumin oil Herbs and spices are like concentrated injections of antioxidants and phytonutrients that help the body protect the skin’s cells from external influences. Here are some tips: Ginger Chaga Moringa Neem Aloe vera Dandelion Nettle Field horsetail Turmeric Cinnamon Red clover Supplements that support skin health Some nutrients are especially important for skin health. In many cases, these overlap with what supports the liver, digestion, as well as hair and nails, since they all affect and interact with each other. The big stars for skin health are: Silica, Collagen, Zinc, Vitamin C, Biotin, Hyaluronic Acid, MSM (sulfur), Omega 3, and friendly gut bacteria. Vitamins E, D, and B-complex also have important functions for the skin. The best supplements specifically for the skin are combination supplements that combine nutrients and herbs in the right proportions to provide optimal support from within the body. Here are some favorites: Contains key ingredients for healthy skin such as silica from bamboo extract, vegetarian hyaluronic acid, soluble keratin, and several important vitamins and minerals. Sunwarrior Beauty Greens: with coconut water, biotin, and hyaluronic acid that help hydrate and strengthen the skin from within, while stimulating the body's collagen production, coconut water providing electrolytes, silica from bamboo, vitamin C, wheatgrass juice, kale, moringa, spirulina, and a vegetable blend as well as lactic acid bacteria for digestion. Terranova Beauty Complex contains a unique blend to support skin and hair health as well as nails. Contains MSM, horsetail, nettles, cocoa powder, pumpkin seeds, Gotu Kola, burdock, vitamin C, and zinc. Other supplements for the skin In addition to combination supplements for skin health, the following individual supplements can play an important role for skin health. Here are the most important: Lactic acid bacteria: health starts in the stomach and friendly gut bacteria support the entire body: Friendly lactic acid bacteria are one of the most important products you can choose. The balance between omega-3 and omega-6 in the body plays a crucial role for the skin and the whole body. B-complex supplements are effective for the skin and hair. Especially vitamin B3 plays an important role in circulation to the body's outermost parts. Zinc: required for collagen production, a connective tissue necessary for skin repair and regeneration. Zinc is a powerful mineral in preventing wrinkles, sun damage, inflammation (acne, rosacea), and pigmentation disorders (melasma). Eczema and acne can be caused by a deficiency of zinc and B vitamins in the body. Sulfur gives the skin radiance and glow. Where can you find sulfur? In lovely greens like arugula, kale, watercress, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kohlrabi, and in maca. Or you can take MSM supplements. Silica is another essential mineral that keeps the skin happy. Silica-rich foods include green beans, nettles, oats, millet, artichoke, asparagus, beets, romaine lettuce, baby spinach, and herbs like horsetail. You can also drink organic green tea or Spring Dragon tea, 1-2 cups a day. Green tea protects the skin from sun damage and studies have shown it reduces redness – but it is important to choose a high-quality organic green tea without sugar.
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B-12 and Energy - Causes and Solutions for B-12 Deficiency
Vitamin B-12 is a water-soluble vitamin and one of the eight B vitamins. B-12 naturally occurs in animal products (eggs, milk, meat, fish, and shellfish) but is difficult to obtain from vegetables and fruit. Vitamin B-12 is produced exclusively by bacteria and single-celled microbes; they are the only living organisms that have the enzymes needed for its synthesis. In fact, vitamin B-12 has the most complex chemical structure of all vitamins. Why is B-12 important for your health? Vitamin B-12 is an essential vitamin. This means the body cannot produce it on its own and must get it through food or supplements. B-12 is sometimes called the "energy vitamin" because it has several important roles in processes that produce energy in the body. Virtually all cells in the body need vitamin B-12. The four forms of vitamin B-12 There are four forms of vitamin B-12. 1. Hydroxycobalamin Hydroxycobalamin (hydroxocobalamin), also called vitamin B-12a, is naturally produced by bacteria. Hydroxycobalamin is converted to methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin in the body. This type of B-12 is found in Global Healing's Triblend product, which is unusual. 2. Methylcobalamin Methylcobalamin is an active form of B-12 and the most bioavailable form in the human body. Being the most bioavailable means, in other words, that it is the easiest for your body to absorb and use. Methylcobalamin easily crosses the blood-brain barrier to protect the brain and nerve cells. It also helps convert homocysteine to methionine, which is important because high homocysteine levels are linked to various negative health conditions. This type of B-12 is found in all our B-12 products. 3. Adenosylcobalamin Adenosylcobalamin (5-deoxyadenosylcobalamin) is an active form of B-12. Some brands have managed to produce adenosylcobalamin in a stable, liquid form, as in this liquid B-12 from Global Healing. Pureness also offers this type. 4. Cyanocobalamin Cyanocobalamin is a form of B-12 that is lab-synthesized, making it the cheapest option to use in supplements. It is not the best option and a good reason to spend a little more on your B-12 supplement. Cyanocobalamin also needs to be converted in the liver to active forms of vitamin B12. Cyanocobalamin does not occur naturally in food, unlike the other three forms of vitamin B12. Methylcobalamin is mainly found in meat, while hydroxycobalamin and adenosylcobalamin are mainly found in dairy products and eggs. What does vitamin B-12 do for the body? B-12 contributes to: Normal energy metabolism. Normal nervous system function. Normal homocysteine metabolism. Normal psychological function. Normal formation of red blood cells. Normal immune system function. Reducing tiredness and fatigue. Plays a role in the cell division process. Vitamin B-12 supports many important body functions The body uses B-12 for cell metabolism and cell division. B-12 helps cells produce hemoglobin, an iron-containing protein that transports oxygen throughout the body in red blood cells. In the form of methylcobalamin, B-12 helps the body synthesize protein, DNA, RNA, lipids, and hormones. People often take B-12 to boost energy because it is a coenzyme used in the Krebs cycle, which is the process by which the body produces energy. Vitamin B-12 is important for brain health, including cognitive function and memory. A white, fatty substance called myelin protects brain cells from free radicals and other toxins. Vitamin B12 deficiency leads to impaired brain and nerve function due to reduced production and maintenance of myelin. With a deficiency of vitamin B12, folic acid, and vitamin B6, the amount of homocysteine in the body can increase. This can also be affected by the MTHFR gene called C677T and A1298C. However, very high levels of homocysteine usually also have causes such as poor diet, smoking, overweight, problems regulating blood sugar, and thyroid issues. Do you need B-12 supplements? The answer for most people is yes – at least during certain periods in life, we need B-12 to replenish our stores. Vegetarians & vegans have a slightly higher risk of B-12 deficiency, but it is more common than you think even for those who eat animal products. After age 60, it is very common to need daily B-12 supplements for the rest of your life. Why do you get a deficiency? Vitamin B-12 deficiency can be due to too little stomach acid and low production of Intrinsic Factor (IF), enzyme deficiency, inflammation, or other diseases in the digestive tract such as Crohn's, gluten intolerance, heavy alcohol consumption, genetic predisposition, or being vegan. The absorption of vitamin B-12 requires Intrinsic Factor (IF) produced in the stomach and also sufficient levels of stomach acid. If you take medications like proton pump inhibitors such as Losec, there is a good chance you have too little stomach acid. Early deficiency symptoms can include tingling sensations, difficulty walking, numbness in the legs, memory loss, cognitive dysfunction, numbness, problems with mucous membranes, tinnitus, bleeding gums, cracks at the corners of the mouth, coordination disorders, low mood, and reduced appetite. It can take several years before symptoms indicating B12 deficiency appear, so it takes a while for the body's stores to be depleted. In the long term, it can lead to serious symptoms, so the earlier you address this problem, the better. But do B-12 supplements really work? Yes, they do. Vitamin B-12 found in supplements is absorbed just like B-12 from animal foods. If you have a deficiency, it may be beneficial to take a high dose of concentrated B-12 supplement alone for a period. Otherwise, it is a good idea to take a quality B-complex daily to get all the B vitamins at once or a multivitamin that contains enough for daily maintenance.
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HIRO Cosmetics: Organic makeup for a natural look
Here comes a review of HIRO Cosmetics. What makes these makeup products unique is that they are incredibly light on the skin, multifunctional, super easy to achieve a beautiful result with, and they stay looking great all day. Mineral Foundation SPF 25-30 from HIRO Cosmetics I think the name mineral foundation doesn’t do this product justice and that this phenomenal product has received far too little attention. Unlike other mineral foundations, this one is extra finely milled, fluffy, and melts directly into the skin without emphasizing dryness or wrinkles. After two layers, you still look natural but the result is strikingly beautiful. Choose a fluffier kabuki brush for medium coverage and a denser foundation brush for high coverage. TIP: Because it is so finely milled, you can get an equally good liquid foundation by mixing it with serum, cream, or oil. When I was in Berlin and met one of the founders, I was explained that there is a huge difference in how the minerals are ground down. You can control particle size, but also particle shape like round, oval, or angular. Depending on the "settings" in the grinding process, the final result on the skin can vary. So exciting! They have also determined the exact SPF for each shade, and I think 25-30 is good year-round protection. Thumbs up for having done all the necessary tests to be able to print SPF on the jars. And thumbs up for the packaging being easy to use and secure so no powder spills out. HIRO Cosmetics is my absolute favorite loose foundation.You can buy HIRO Cosmetics Mineral Foundation here > No Doubt Natural Foundation from HIRO Cosmetics HIRO Cosmetics' natural liquid foundation is also easy to use as it melts into the skin immediately and gives a natural look. It doesn’t cake. I find it super comfortable on the skin and it gives a smooth, matte, beautiful finish. It provides medium coverage that is buildable, so if you need more, just apply more. This foundation is a 5-star product (out of 5 stars) and I think it suits both experienced makeup users and beginners. You can buy HIRO Cosmetics liquid foundation here > Space Balm concealer from HIRO Cosmetics Space Balm is also from another planet and has a high coverage level. HIRO Cosmetics may cover slightly less than some other brands, but it stays put all day, and even after several layers it feels light and not greasy on the skin, which means it doesn’t emphasize lines. A big plus is the mirror, a must for touch-ups or if you're always on the go. If I could only own one concealer, I would without a doubt choose HIRO Cosmetics' Space Balm. You can buy HIRO Cosmetics Space Balm here > Lipstick from HIRO Cosmetics I am a lipstickholic and absolutely love HIRO Cosmetics' lipsticks and lip paints. There are lipsticks that apply a fairly thick layer on the lips. Full coverage and beautiful, but they wear off quickly and end up everywhere. Then there are those that feel drier, last better but require more work when applying and are not for those with dry lips. HIRO’s lipsticks instead give a thin, pigmented layer on the lips that you don’t feel. The lips also stay soft for a long time. Sometimes I forget I’m wearing lipstick but am pleasantly surprised when I see it still looks nice at the end of the day. If I don’t touch up during the day, it fades evenly and nicely. There’s nothing worse than an outer ring left on the lips by evening. Their Lip Paint gives a lot of color and suits everyone who loves very colorful lips. Lip Paints are creamy in a liquid, thick form. They are very pigmented and have matte, opaque, wonderful colors. Buy HIRO lipsticks here > Mascara from HIRO Mascara is so individual. I always have trouble with flakes and smudges because I have hooded eyes. HIRO’s mascara Beautiful Brown & Deep Black gets 4 out of 5 points from me. By the end of the day, a little has settled under the eye. Easy to wipe off, but still. We know we have customers who are die-hard fans of the mascara; the brush has a classic perfect design and the formula lasts all day. Their latest mascara released in 2022 is called Bada Boom and is another hit from HIRO. A gentle mascara that suits sensitive eyes but still gives a sweep of fine volume without clumps… wonderful! This is by far the best natural mascara we’ve tested that gives volume and length at the same time. Buy HIRO mascaras here > Multistick from HIRO These multisticks became popular from day one! They are matte and the formula is cream-to-powder, which gives a light splash of color on the lips and eyelids. On the cheeks, HIRO’s multisticks are in a class of their own. There are cream blushes that are so pigmented they can easily look patchy and require practice to get an even and nice finish. If you succeed, cream blushes look more like skin, give a fresher and more believable result. Powder blushes look nice but can appear powdery and therefore more unnatural. HIRO’s multisticks are a middle ground, powdery but not quite. It’s easy and quick to create a subtle or more pigmented look. It looks like you’re good at makeup even if you don’t know what you’re doing. So easy to apply and no brushes needed, just fingers. The best part is that it stays extremely well on the skin. Blushes and bronzers tend to disappear on me during the day (I like small amounts, a subtle look), but not these. I easily eat off lipstick. But the multistick from HIRO stays all day. I've tried wearing multisticks and other lipsticks on top, and what remains in the evening is the multistick. Love, love, love HIRO's multisticks. Buy HIRO Multisticks here > All of you who love HIRO, go in and write product reviews so more people can hear how you experience them. All of you who haven't tried HIRO yet – do it!
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Safe face paint for children for Halloween
Halloween is a fun tradition where children get to dress up, play tricks, and eat candy. But they should be able to do it without risking their health! We take a closer look at what scary Halloween makeup for children contains, suggest better alternatives, and give you makeup inspiration. Harmful substances in children’s makeup As early as 2015, the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation warned about toxins in makeup aimed at children after examining the Halloween makeup selection. They found frightening substances such as: are suspected hormone disruptors. are allergenic. are believed to contribute to diseases like diabetes, obesity, and cancer. Read the ingredient list It’s worth taking the time to read the small ingredient list on conventional face paint. When you read it, watch out for toxic substances such as: PFAS (perfluorinated substances). Watch out for names containing “fluoro,” polytef, polytefum, and PTFE. Read more about PFAS in makeup. Cyclic silicones (start with the word “cyclo” and end with “siloxane”). Parabens such as butyl-, isobutyl-, isopropyl-, and propylparaben. Phthalates are incredibly hard to identify because they come in many forms and are abbreviated as BBP, DEHP, MEP, MiBP, MEHP, etc. Always be critical when abbreviations are used. In cosmetics, phthalates can be found in nail polish and perfumes. It’s worth knowing that there are also toxic substances that don’t appear on the ingredient list but are hidden in other ingredients. For example: Synthetic color pigments often contain harmful heavy metals. Watch out for lake colors (e.g., labeled as Red 6 lake) and FD&C colors (e.g., labeled as FD&C Yellow 5). Phthalates are often part of synthetic perfumes. They fix the scents and make them last longer. A perfume can contain a large amount of phthalates without it needing to be listed on the ingredient label. They can hide behind vague terms like fragrance and perfume. It should be easy to choose right! Living a toxin-minimized and chemical-wise life should be simple, we at Glimja believe. We know it’s hard to decipher ingredient lists! That’s why we do the work for you and offer a handpicked selection that has both clean ingredients and high quality. Always buy pure, natural, and organic makeup products for children. They are much more sensitive than adults. The makeup products in our range contain no: PFAS substances (and are therefore not waterproof). Forms of silicones or petroleum-based chemicals. Instead, they consist of vegetable oils that nourish the skin. Parabens. Instead, they contain milder preservatives. Synthetic fragrances. Made from fragrant plant oils that are completely free from phthalates. Synthetic color pigments. Natural face paint from Namaki Namaki makes fun face painting products with ingredients that are safe for children's skin and health. Since the beginning, they have used carefully selected natural and organic ingredients when formulating their products. Namaki is COSMOS ORGANIC certified by Cosmécert according to the COSMOS standard. All Namaki products are certified organic and dermatologically tested. They are made with natural ingredients and formulated to minimize the risk of allergic reactions. The packaging is recyclable and made with the environment in mind. Namakis fine products are perfect to use for Halloween, parties, or other festive occasions! The face pencils are practical and precise, allowing you to paint exactly the design you or the child wants. The natural and water-based face paint for face painting can also be applied to the skin. The face paint’s content is 99% natural and 20% organic. It includes 6 colors, a makeup brush, and 5 makeup instructions. 3 face paintings for Halloween 1. Halloween-themed face painting Painting kids as vampires and zombies is a classic that’s always in, but why not try something new, like an evil pumpkin, intergalactic creature, mermaid, favorite animal, robot, or avatar. Google in English and you’ll easily find pictures of the face painting you want to do: For example: "avatar halloween makeup children" or "zombie halloween makeup children." For kids who want something different, we have some fun suggestions that are easy to do even if you’re not an artist. If you want different shades, mix in white to get lighter colors and black to get darker colors. 2. Face painting with patterns Patterns on the face look both nice and cool. Base the face with a color of your choice and then create a pattern with another color. Here we have made a reptile imitation. Do as follows: Apply face cream or face oil to the face. Base with a mix of yellow and blue. Then use, for example, a net as a stencil (a tip is to use the net bag that avocados or onions come in). Paint over the stencil with another face paint or powder with a powder makeup like black eyeshadow. 3. Themed face painting Choose a theme that the kids like. Hello Kitty and Disney characters are examples of such. Here we went with the popular Pokémon theme. They are usually colorful and easy to paint. Here we have created Pikachu face painting. Do as follows: Start by applying a moisturizing face cream or oil to the face. Then draw the black lines. If you don't have black face paint, you can use a creamy and pigmented eyeliner like Purobio Long Lasting Pencil. Base with a yellow color. Fill up to the black lines. Paint the cheeks and upper mouth with red paint. Paint the lower part of the mouth with a mix of red and white.
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37 natural & organic Christmas gift ideas for better health
We asked the Glimja team which organic and natural Christmas gifts they would like to give. Here they come! 1. Organic hair kit Sara M is putting Malin i Ratan's lovely starter kit under the tree this year. The strength is perfect for beginners in "no poo" or for those who want to try shampoo soap. The soaps also work great as body soaps. The kit contains 3 small soaps, 1 rasul clay detox, and 1 sour rinse hibiscus. All Malin i Ratan's solid soaps are handmade and organic. They contain only the best natural and organic ingredients. 2. Reusable cleansing pads Otilia wants to recommend Bambaw's reusable cleansing pads. A Christmas gift that suits the environmentally conscious. These pads are washable and can be reused again and again. The pads are made of cotton, bamboo, and polyester and are designed to suit all skin types. 3. Vitamin C serum Ljung of Lapland's Vitamin C Antioxidant Serum is the perfect beauty Christmas gift, says Vera. It refreshes and brightens the skin while smelling so good. The serum contains carrot extract, vitamin C, and heather extract, which have an anti-aging effect. Vitamin C prevents pigmentation spots. 4. Ceremonial matcha tea Otilia loves Matcha tea and wants to give away the beautiful package with Ceremonial Grade Matcha tea and matcha whisk. Matcha is very rich in antioxidants and also contains the special amino acid L-theanine, which is only found in green tea. A lovely gift that most will appreciate. A matcha whisk, or Chasen as it is actually called, is a beautiful element for a Japanese tea ceremony. This whisk is made of bamboo with 100 bamboo tines to perfectly mix the tea with foam on top. 5. Natural candy dates Sara recommends Dave & Jon's amazingly tasty dates with candy flavors! They suit both kids and adults and contribute to a slightly healthier Christmas candy. It's a very nice "host gift" for the mulled wine party or Christmas cozy time. Which will be your favorite? Licorice, Peach, Tropical flavor, or maybe Cola bottles? 6. Green super powder Better You's green powder Green Boost is a great Christmas gift for a tired mom, says Hanna, or for anyone who needs a little extra nutrition during winter. Drink the powder directly in water or make a delicious smoothie. Green Boost gives you spirulina, spinach, Q10, wheatgrass, acai, barley grass, alfalfa, green tea, chlorella, and sour cherry – a really great boost of greens and nutrients. 7. Play bag Hanna recommends PlanToys’ “learning bags,” which are inspiring and fun play bags that help children develop imagination, creativity, fine motor skills, and logical thinking. Perfect even for the “wild” child, says Hanna. And we adults take turns being patients or customers. PlanToys makes very nice, eco-friendly, and educational toys. They use sustainable materials and dye with organic, water-based colors. They are made of rubberwood, painted with low-toxicity paints, and the bags are made of cotton canvas. 8. Wool blanket Otilia wants to give one of Klippan’s wool blankets in organic lambswool – it’s guaranteed to be a Christmas gift everyone will love. Because who doesn’t want to snuggle under a warm blanket in winter in front of a fire or a good movie? The wool blankets are made without chlorine and with heavy metal-free dyes. The blanket is just as beautiful on the front as on the back and becomes a cozy, warming treasure in the home for many years to come. 9. Aroma bottle Sara loves her aroma bottle because she can create her own scent combinations for her home with selected essential oils. The current favorite is cinnamon scent! Of course, the essential oils we offer are genuine and organic, no synthetic fragrances. You fill the bottle with a little vegetable base oil and 5-10 drops of essential oils. Then you put in a few scent sticks and the fragrance spreads throughout the home. 10. Organic argan oil Sara wants to share the amazing Argan oil. Sara now only uses pure argan oil on her face and has never had such beautiful skin. Her favorite is Loelle’s argan oil with vanilla. Argan oil suits all skin types, including sensitive and oily skin. At the same time, the oil is probably best known as a really good, effective hair oil that helps dry, damaged, and worn hair. 11. Organic conditioner Nicole gives 100% Pure Honey & Virgin Coconut conditioner as a Christmas gift. Because it makes the hair so soft, smooth, and easy to comb! And it smells just right. The balm has a nourishing formula with, among other things, aloe vera, rose water, avocado butter, and coconut oil that makes the hair healthy and shiny. 12. Organic foot cream Moon thinks that Dr Sannas organic foot cream is a perfect Christmas gift. A sure winter present for tired and dry winter feet. Dr Sannas foot cream softens and prevents cracked heels. The feet become smooth and lovely with completely natural ingredients. 13. Supercharged C60 Sara wants to share Global Healing's Supercharged C60, which is a unique product. It is an advanced form of micro-activated, multilayered, and organized C60. What does it do then, you wonder? Well, it works as a very powerful antioxidant. It contributes to cleansing the body and supports healthy aging. Its unique structure acts as a powerful "catcher" of free radicals, effectively absorbing these harmful molecules and helping to eliminate them from the body. 14. Organic elderberry syrup Moon wants to give Gaia Herbs Elderberry Syrup as a Christmas gift because it is a simple product for the whole family to use to give a boost and prevent colds. And it tastes so good! Gaia Herbs Elderberry Syrup is a liquid syrup made from elderberries and acerola fruit. Two berries rich in vitamin C. Each teaspoon corresponds to 14.5 grams of fresh elderberries. 15. Organic propolis Nicole thinks Ballot Flurin black propolis is a perfect Christmas gift. It is organic black propolis extract in spray form that is easy to take to support the immune system. Propolis is a wonder of nature consisting of vitamins, minerals, and almost all amino acids. It also contains a range of interesting bioflavonoids, some of our most important antioxidants. 16. Natural watercolors For Sara T, it is important to minimize toxins in the home. She wants to brighten Christmas Eve with this beautiful watercolor kit with 12 different colors. Suitable for the crafty child or the crafty adult. With pencils, crayons, or paint from the German ökoNORM, we avoid worries about toxins, as their products are made from natural raw materials. The colors are made from highly concentrated plant extracts and food-grade dyes. 17. Insulated thermal mug This insulated Camp Mug from Klean Kanteen is a favorite when going out with the dog and wanting to bring your morning coffee, says Rahima. Perfect as a gift for anyone who enjoys hiking in the forest or wants their drink in the car. Suitable for both hot and cold drinks. Camp Mug has a "Climate Lock" vacuum insulation that keeps cold drinks chilled for about 9.5 hours and hot drinks warm for about 3.5 hours. 18. Yoga mat in lambswool Nicole gives away a yoga mat in lambswool – for the calmer yoga moments. Nicole loves to cozy up on this mat with her dog when the floor at home is cold in winter. The mat is also perfect just for relaxation, meditation, or why not outdoors. The rug is certified according to Ökotex and Woolmark. The top side is 100% wool. The underside has anti-slip stripes made from a mix of natural latex. 19. Eye cream Adam would like to recommend 100% Pure's fantastic eye cream that reduces puffiness and dark circles. A big favorite both with us and our customers. With green tea and green coffee extract, vitamin C, vitamin E, rose water, rosehip oil, aloe vera, and herbs, this is an effective hit. 20. Organic body lotion You can't live without a good lotion, so Rahima puts i+m Naturkosmetik's organic lotion Rich Body Cream Orange Vanilla under the tree. Because it leaves the skin so smooth and smells divine. i+m naturkosmetik is a favorite company. They are organic pioneers who create products with fine eco raw materials. The principles FAIR ORGANIC VEGAN BRAVE are always the foundation for all their product and company decisions. 21. Natural bath salt A bath salt from Vermont Soap is the obvious Christmas gift, says Daniella. If you have a bathtub at home, there is nothing more pleasant and relaxing than taking a bath with bath salt. Vermont Soaps aromatherapy bath salt soothes aching and tired muscles as it contains both sea salt and Epsom salt. The lovely scent is just a bonus. 22. Natural birch sugar Daniella would like to recommend Birch Sugar as it tastes just as good as the less healthy white sugar. A fun gift to put under the tree or bring to the Christmas party. Birch sugar can be used like regular sugar, except for baked goods that require yeast. You can, for example, make chocolate, chocolate balls, ice cream, marmalade, jam, desserts, cookies, etc. Or put it on berries, in tea, and more. 23. Vitamin C Adam gives away Vitamin C because it is such a fantastic support during the winter months for everyone. A must-have in the medicine cabinet at home. We have Vitamin C for big and small, for all ages. In capsule, tablet, or powder form. 24. Organic olive oil An organic olive oil of the highest quality is the obvious Christmas gift, says Ellinor. The Vivere Verde olive oil comes from Sicily. Olives of the Tonda Iblea variety are handpicked and pressed within a few hours, then bottled in dark glass bottles. The oil is certified D.O.P. Monte Iblei, which guarantees that it is 100% oil from olives from this area and that pressing has been done without heat or chemicals. 25. Wool blankets for children Moon, who is a toddler parent, thinks Klippan’s children’s blankets are a lovely Christmas gift and they are so beautiful! A soft, cozy gift that everyone wants to take turns sitting on or wrapping themselves in. Of course, they are made from organic lambswool. The lambswool is free from pesticides and no chemicals or antibiotics have been used in raising the lambs. The blankets are dyed with colors free from heavy metals, and they are not chlorine bleached either. 26. Water purifier Adam wants to recommend Maunawai water filter because it’s an amazing product everyone should have in their kitchen that makes the water feel very clean and taste so good! Maunawai® PI®PRIME K8 filter is a gravity water filter that filters according to five principles: filtration, information, optimization, harmonization, and biological availability. This technology was developed 60 years ago in Japan, intended to make tap water first-class drinking water. The Hawaiian word “Maunawai” means “mountain water.” 27. Natural beeswax wraps Daniella wants to give Bee´s Wraps beeswax wraps as a Christmas gift because they are indispensable once you’ve discovered that plastic isn’t needed in the kitchen. Beeswax wraps work perfectly for everything from cheese to vegetables and bread, and the size is adapted to the product you want to use it for. You simply shape the cloth so that it covers, for example, a bowl going into the fridge. Then you clean them with cold water and a mild dish soap, and they can be used for up to a year. 28. Face Tan Water Ellinor thinks Eco by Sonya’s Face Tan Water is a nice Christmas gift because it really brightens up the skin and gives that extra fresh feeling during winter. Besides being organic, non-greasy, easy to use, giving a healthy glow, and reducing the need for foundation are just extra bonuses. 29. Organic facial oil Hanna recommends Ljung organic Facial Oil Rosehip with rosehip seed oil, borage oil, and blackcurrant seed oil. It’s such a lovely oil and it really feels like it nourishes the skin. The facial oil is rich in antioxidants and has a high content of essential fatty acids that improve the skin’s texture deeply. 30. Natural calendula balm Hewri gives away Ekendahls organic calendula balm suitable for babies and children’s sensitive skin. It’s magical! and always removes dryness and redness from my daughters’ cheeks during winter. It’s enough for me to apply it in the evening and in the morning the skin is soft and smooth again. This mild calendula balm is not only suitable for babies and children but is equally useful for adults to apply on dry skin areas. It is 99% organic and has no added fragrance. 31. Crunchy spirulina Rahima thinks Spirulina Crunchy is a fun Christmas gift that most people would be surprised to receive, and most have never tried it. Dried spirulina that has been made into small crunchy pieces. Oh, so good! If you like the "green flavors," this is a must. The spirulina is grown in Auroville and harvested as a mass that then undergoes a purification and filtration process. After that, the mass is pressed before being shaped into a paste that is ground into "spaghetti." These are dried in the sun. Finally, the spirulina is portioned and packaged. Available in neutral flavor or with chili for a little kick in the mouth. 32. Organic blueberry powder Vera gives Holistic's Blueberry Powder as a gift because it's super tasty on porridge! Blueberry powder is a great Christmas gift that suits both health novices and seasoned health enthusiasts. Blueberries provide vitamins and minerals, but above all antioxidants. 33. Ultimate Cellular Health Mikael absolutely loves Global Healing's Ultimate Cellular Health because it feels like it contributes to youthfulness. Ultimate Cellular Health is an advanced supplement for cellular health. This is a really cool Longevity product, says Mikael! 34. Multivitamin for women Better You Multivitamin Woman is a nice Christmas gift and perfect for people like me who like ALL IN ONE, says Hewri, while also being affordable. Multivitamin Woman is designed for all women's needs, regardless of age, with a complete spectrum of vitamins and minerals. 35. Stainless steel straws Vera would love to see BamBaw's stainless steel straws under the Christmas tree this year. These bent straws are made of stainless steel and replace disposable straws! A single stainless steel straw can prevent many plastic straws from ending up in the ocean or landfill. 36. Food thermos Klean Kanteen's Insulated TKCanister is a really good food thermos that Ellinor would love to give to anyone who wants a really good lunchbox, for work, forest trips, or traveling. The food thermos has Climate Lock double-wall vacuum insulation that keeps contents warm for 11 hours and cold for 45 hours. It has a wide opening that makes it easy to eat from. The lid is leak-proof and has a large stainless steel handle. 37. Glass water bottle Hewri thinks the water tastes better in this nice water bottle from Lifefactory, so she wants to give one to a friend for Christmas! Lifefactory makes incredibly nice glass bottles with a practical silicone sleeve. The silicone sleeve both protects the glass and provides a good grip, making the bottle soft and easy to hold.
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Inlight Beauty: Organic skincare with a scientific foundation
Inlight Beauty is an English company that produces luxurious, organic skincare products. They started in 2007 and have advocated “clean beauty” from the very beginning. Dr. Mariano Spiezia, a physician, clinical herbalist, and homeopath, is the wisdom behind the brand. He has over 30 years of medical knowledge and an innate passion for alchemy. Inlight carefully selects and blends the very best organic ingredients, chosen for their natural therapeutic and preservative qualities, ensuring they work in synergy with each other and are gentle not only on your skin but also on our planet. Over 50 botanical plants are used in their products. Each organic ingredient has been specifically selected by Dr. Spiezia for its beneficial properties and individual or collective synergistic effects. All Inlight products contain Dr. Spiezia’s Bio Lipophilic Matrix®, a blend of organic, cold-pressed plant oils carefully developed for their high biochemical affinity to the skin. Feel free to watch this film How Inlight’s products are made? All products are handmade in Cornwall, England. Inlight avoids mass production, and their unique production process integrates modern science, nature’s alchemy, and green chemistry. Ingredients are expertly blended, and raw materials like flowers, herbs, stems, and roots are infused in cold-pressed oils such as olive, jojoba, and coconut oil for over a month before being pressed and filtered by hand. They are also exposed to sunlight and moonlight to harness their unique, subtle strength. Once the oils have been infused with care and powerful plant nutrients, they are cold-pressed and filtered to create a pure oil blend. The final touch is adding essential oils and, in some products, beeswax. They process the raw materials as little as possible to preserve their natural integrity and life force. Dr. Spiezia uses a range of unique techniques during every production step, such as tuning sounds, colors, and intention words, to enhance each ingredient’s vibrational energy and vitality. This is how Inlight uses alchemy in their products Every Inlight product is also represented by an alchemical symbol. As is well known, all matter is surrounded by its own vibrational energy, so each alchemical symbol is the visual expression of the product’s unique, vibrational “dance.” With every unique formulation comes the perfect fusion of particles, molecules, and atoms. Or as Dr. Spiezia so beautifully explains it: "Health and science have a beauty within them, the beauty that arises from the chemical and physical processes underlying life itself; there can be no finer beauty than that of atoms dancing together in the fascinating harmony of laws that stabilize this planet and are constantly evolving. Every symbol on Inlight products is the visual expression of this unique, vibrational 'dance'." It is skincare alchemy. Lip Serum is an oil-based lip serum Why do they only have water-free formulations? Inlight Beauty’s products are water-free, oil-based formulations. Their water-free formulas mimic the composition of the skin’s natural sebum, allowing each ingredient to work on and with the skin, resulting in highly effective products. All skin types, whether dry, normal, or oily, need hydration. Effective hydration is crucial to keeping the skin healthy, supple, and youthful. Oil-based products provide a protective barrier that helps lock in water, keeping the skin hydrated longer. Oil-based beauty products require no chemical additives or preservatives at all. The products therefore do not contain synthetic preservatives, parabens, phthalates, alcohol, phenoxyethanol, petroleum-based ingredients, synthetic fragrances, or other chemicals. What certifications do they have? The fine organic ingredients that form the base of the skincare and Dr Spiezia’s expertise made Inlight Beauty the first British beauty brand to receive Cosmos Organic Certification for the entire range of skin and hair care products. Inlight is also certified by Positive Luxury’s Butterfly Mark, the leading sustainability certification in the luxury industry, as well as the international Leaping Bunny – Cruelty Free certification for the welfare of all animals. Dr Spiezia was nominated in 2020 for the Lifetime Achievement Award by Positive Luxury for his contribution to sustainable and positive changes in the beauty and health industry. Deep Moisture Balm is a deeply moisturizing facial cream Glass jars and bottles that protect the contents Inlight's products come in violet miron glass that protects the contents and ensures the shelf life and effectiveness of the ingredients remain at their peak. Miron glass blocks UV rays but lets in other important rays. Product shelf life Most products have a shelf life of 36 months on the shelf before opening. After opening, we recommend use within 6 months for maximum effect. However, considering the ingredients and miron glass, they can be used much longer if stored properly. Face Oil is a facial oil that balances Who are the products suitable for? Despite the common misconception that oil-based products should not be used on oily skin, they can actually help regulate and balance excess oil production. The entire skincare collection is therefore suitable for all skin types, including sensitive. All products are suitable for vegetarians and never tested on animals. All oils and serums are vegan-friendly. The balm contains beeswax. Explore their product range for skin and hair InLight Beauty Deep Moisture Balm, 28 ml suits all skin types, including sensitive. Especially nourishing for dry, uneven, and sun-affected skin. Also ideal as anti-aging skincare and for skin during menopause. InLight Beauty Face Cleanser, 28 ml suits all skin types. Also ideal for problematic and acne-prone skin. InLight Beauty Face Oil, 30 ml suits all skin types and ages. Also ideal for problematic skin. InLight Beauty Face Oil for Men, 30 ml suits all skin types, including sensitive. Especially beneficial for dry and mature skin. InLight Beauty Night Balm, 45 ml suits all skin types, including sensitive. Also ideal for skin during menopause. InLight Beauty Line Softener Intensive, 15 ml suits all skin types, including sensitive. Ideal for mature, dry skin, age spots, deep lines, and scars. Also ideal for skin during menopause. InLight Beauty Under Eye Revive, 12 ml suits all skin types, including sensitive. Ideal for dark circles, puffiness, and thin skin. InLight Beauty Floral Tonic, 200 ml suits all skin types, including sensitive. Ideal for mature, dry skin, redness, and acne-prone skin. InLight Beauty Make Up Remover, 50 ml suits all skin types, including sensitive. InLight Beauty Superfood Mask, 25 ml suits all skin types, including sensitive. Ideal for tired, dull, and sun-damaged skin. InLight Beauty Chocolate Mask, 25 ml suits all skin types, including sensitive. Ideal for tired and dull skin. InLight Beauty Lip Serum, 10 ml suits all skin types and ages. InLight Beauty Hair Elixir, 100 ml suits all hair types including dry, damaged, or colored hair. Especially good for frizzy hair, split ends, sun-damaged hair, or hair worn out from pool and sea swimming. Is there a product for Rosacea? Floral Tonic is oil-free and contains ingredients that soothe, refresh, and reduce inflammation. This makes it effective for calming skin prone to rosacea. Floral Tonic is an alcohol-free facial toner Which of the products are suitable for acne-prone skin? Face Cleanser and Floral Tonic have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help soothe and relieve acne-prone skin. Using specific oils actually helps balance the skin’s sebum and prevent excess oil production. Face Cleanser is a balm that deeply cleanses and nourishes Skincare routine à la Inlight Step 1: Cleanse impurities and remove makeup with Face Cleanser. If you want a vegan-friendly product, swap it for Make-up Remover Oil. Step 2: Refresh and brighten with Floral Tonic (vegan-friendly). Step 3: Hydrate and protect with Face Oil (vegan-friendly). For more intensive daily hydration, choose Deep Moisture Balm. It is formulated with a high concentration of phytonutrients that promote skin renewal and increase collagen and elastin production. You can also alternate with Line Softener Intensive which combats fine lines and dark spots, or Night Balm which provides intense nourishment overnight. All these balms contain beeswax and are therefore vegetarian. Step 4: Once a week, you can use one of the lovely face masks Superfood Mask or Chocolate Mask (vegetarian). Have you tried Inlight Beauty's amazing products? Feel free to share your experience here!
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Find the right shampoo for your scalp and hair type
It can be hard to find the right shampoo. Many factors affect the final result, and the selection is huge. In this guide, you’ll learn what kind of shampoo to look for and what to avoid. That makes buying shampoo much easier. Scalp first The biggest mistake you can make is buying a shampoo that doesn’t suit your scalp. If your scalp is too dry or oily, your shampoo should primarily be designed to balance your scalp. An unbalanced scalp will sooner or later negatively affect hair quality. Always prioritize the scalp first. Feel free to read our blog post about scalp detox. Both dry and oily scalps can itch. The itching usually disappears when the scalp is balanced. If your shampoo suits your hair but not your scalp, the tip is to use two different shampoos: one for the scalp and another for the lengths. Dry scalp When the scalp is dry, it can feel tight after washing. It may also flake and itch. A classic sign of dry scalp is small flakes falling onto your shoulders. It can feel like it’s “snowing” from your hair and never stops no matter how much you try to shake it off. Keep in mind: many confuse dryness with dandruff and aren’t helped by dandruff shampoos, which actually dry out the scalp more. Tips to get rid of dry scalp If you have a dry scalp Try scrubbing your scalp if it flakes a lot. Dead skin cells need to be scrubbed away from a dry scalp just as much as from dry skin. See our blog post scalp detox for how to scrub your scalp. If your scalp flakes a lot, it’s important to wash thoroughly so dead skin cells don’t build up and form a barrier on the scalp. Gently massage the scalp with your fingers while shampooing and rinse well. Wash more often if you usually wash infrequently (e.g., once a week). If you usually wash your hair every day, try washing it less often. Frequent hair washing can dry out both the scalp and hair. If you exercise often, it’s fine to wash sometimes and other times just rinse with water or use a dry shampoo. If you usually wash your hair with hot water, try lukewarm or cold water, which is less drying. If you feel your hair rarely gets dirty, try washing with a light conditioner instead and let your scalp rest from shampoo for a while. Natural shampoos for dry scalp Try an organic, mild shampoo designed to provide moisture, nourishment, shine, and easy-to-comb hair. These nourish and hydrate without drying out the scalp. Look for gentle, moisturizing shampoos that contain plant oils. Avoid conventional strong sulfates (drying soap agents that create a lot of lather) in your shampoo. Also avoid volumizing shampoos or strengthening shampoos for damaged and fragile hair. These can either irritate or wash away too much oil from an already dry scalp. Ingredients that are good for dry scalp Plant oils such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, argan oil, or avocado oil are good for nourishing and protecting the scalp from drying out. Plant extracts from eucalyptus, aloe vera, burdock root, nettles, green tea, and calendula are also beneficial, as they provide moisture and calm the scalp. Products we recommend for dry scalp Odylique Gentle Herb Shampoo Bruns Shampoo no. 02 Logona Nettle Shampoo Glossy Locks Moisture Drench Shampoo 100% Pure Honey & Virgin Coconut Shampoo Oily scalp Overproduction of sebum (natural skin oil) can be due to genetics or hormonal imbalance, but in most cases it actually stems from dry skin on the scalp. When you wash away too much of the skin’s natural sebum, an excess sebum production occurs to balance the disruption. Therefore, avoid strongly lathering and drying shampoos that only worsen the condition. If you need to wash often and with strong lathering shampoos to keep your hair clean, it’s time to break the vicious cycle. Tips to get rid of oily scalp Do you feel your hair doesn’t get clean after shampooing? Be patient when massaging your scalp and hair with your new milder shampoo to dissolve oil. Shampoo at least twice and make sure to rinse the shampoo thoroughly from scalp and hair. When switching to a milder shampoo, you may initially need to wash your hair more often during the week to keep it clean. That’s okay as long as it’s a milder change. The goal, however, is to gradually wash less often. If it’s absolutely impossible to get your hair clean with a milder shampoo, alternate with your current (strongly lathering) shampoo to eventually phase it out completely. Never massage conditioner into your scalp, but apply from the ear down or only on the hair ends. Make sure to rinse the conditioner thoroughly. Natural shampoos for oily scalp Try dry shampoo to extend the time between washes. Choose an organic dry shampoo to avoid irritating and strongly drying ingredients. Look for a sulfate-free volumizing or balancing shampoo. Watch out for cheap shampoos aimed at oily hair. They are often drying with strong drying sulfates, which dry out the scalp and cause it to produce even more oil. Avoid shampoos that are moisturizing, nourishing, shine-enhancing, meant to detangle tangled hair, or good for curly, frizzy, thick, or dry hair. These usually provide too much nourishment for an already oily scalp. Many natural and organic shampoos for oily hair also work against dandruff. The reason is that the ingredients both balance an oily scalp and are effective against dandruff formation. If you don’t have dandruff, an organic dandruff shampoo still works perfectly well. Ingredients that are good for oily scalp Examples of ingredients that either balance or reduce oil production are jojoba oil, peppermint, eucalyptus, aloe vera, rosemary, tea tree, kelp, calendula, lavender, burdock root, horsetail, nettles, baking soda, neem, and clays. Products we recommend for oily scalp Logona Balance Shampoo Khadi Neem Shampoo Odylique Tea Tree & Herb Shampoo Grön Lycka Golden Rose Shampoo Bar Grön Lycka Exotic Flower Shampoo Bar Shampoos that suit your hair type When your scalp is balanced, you can choose a shampoo that can fulfill your hair dreams. Hair type /Shampoo / Beneficial ingredients Fine, thin hair: Volumizing shampoos that revive hair without weighing it down. Avoid shampoos with a lot of oils, like serums and hair oils.1100% Pure Kelp & Mint Volumizing Shampoo, Sante Volume Goji & Henna Shampoo. Bamboo extract, kelp, clay, peppermint, horsetail. Straight hair: Shine-enhancing shampoos that are often extra nourishing. 100% Pure Honey & Coconut Shampoo, Lavera Gloss & Shine Shampoo, 100% Pure Yuzu & Pomelo Shampoo.Honey, nettles, rosemary, rose water, aloe vera.Chemically, heat-damaged, bleached, colored, and fragile hair. Strengthening, protein-rich shampoos. 100% Pure Repair Shampoo, Eco Cosmetics Repair Shampoo. Bamboo extract, baking soda, vitamin E, green tea, honey, proteins, rosemary, horsetail.Stiff, dull, and lifeless hair: Detox shampoo or one that lathers well without strong sulfates. Make sure to shampoo at least twice to get the hair really clean. Follow up with a nourishing, detangling conditioner. Bruns Shampoo no. 04. Baking soda, honey, nettles, rosemary, apple cider vinegar.Thick, wavy: Moisturizing, nutrient-rich shampoos with plant oils that make hair supple, shiny, and smooth. Bruns Shampoo no. 02, 100% Pure Moisture Drench Shampoo. Aloe vera, argan oil, avocado oil, honey, jojoba oil, cinnamon, coconut oil, nettles, rosemary.Curly hair: Nourishing shampoos that prevent frizz with mild foam. Avoid sulfates at all costs. Bruns Shampoo no. 02, Rahua Hydrating Shampoo. Aloe vera, avocado oil, bamboo extract, coconut oil, clays, shea butter.Very dry and curly hair that rarely gets oily. Same as for Curly hair. Preferably skip shampoo and try washing your hair with clay or conditioner without silicones, mineral oils, and sulfates. Crearome Rhassoul Clay, Bruns Conditioner no. 01All hair types with hair loss problems or that need to stimulate hair growth with sulfate-, silicone-, and mineral oil-free shampoos. 100% Pure Grow More Shampoo, Bruns VÄXA Shampoo no. 80 & 81. Biotin, vitamin E, ginseng, green tea, coffee, chamomile, burdock root, mint, nettles, rosemary, horsetail.All hair types that need frequent washing. A mild foaming shampoo for daily use (usually suitable for the whole family) that cleans without drying out, like Logona Nettle Shampoo or Lavera Sensitive Moisture & Care Shampoo, Odylique Hydrating Lavender Shampoo.Not sure about your hair type: A balancing shampoo. It’s a safe choice if you’re not quite sure what you need. It’s not too nourishing and doesn’t dry out the hair. Dr Sannas balancing shampoo, Sante Shampoo Shine Birch Leaf, Odylique Hydrating Lavender Shampoo. Jojoba oil, lemon balm, apple cider vinegar, aloe vera, lavender. Here you can read more about dry hair, here you can read more about curly hair, here you can read more about how to create volume in your hair or about the conditioner method. Here you can read about how to dye with herbal hair colors.
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Supplements for Pregnant Women: Which Supplements Do You Need?
Do I need supplements when I am pregnant? Is it safe to take supplements during pregnancy? We often get these questions from our customers, so in this article I will try to give an overview of what is good to consider during your pregnancy. It is no secret that proper nutrition is important during pregnancy, but getting the recommended daily dose of vitamins and minerals can be difficult—even with the healthiest diet. That is why supplements are often recommended during pregnancy, as they help you and your baby get the maximum benefit from important nutrients. To the question "Is it safe to take supplements during pregnancy?" I want to answer that you should primarily choose supplements that are designed and made specifically for pregnant women, so it feels safe. Then ask us or the manufacturer directly about others. Always stay in conversation with your midwife and take blood tests to rule out any deficiencies. Here are four important supplements to focus on to support a healthy pregnancy. 1. Prenatal Multivitamins & Iron Prenatal multivitamins are a thoughtful supplement to provide your baby (and your body) with the nutrients needed to support a healthy pregnancy. It is not possible to guarantee that we get enough of these nutrients from our diet, so a daily multivitamin is a good way to bridge the gap. Prenatal multis are specifically designed for pregnant women but can also be taken if you are planning to become pregnant or are breastfeeding. However, remember that prenatal vitamins are never a substitute for a healthy diet! Multivitamins for pregnant and breastfeeding women are available. Iron deficiency anemia is common during pregnancy. When you are pregnant, the amount of blood in your body increases until you have almost twice as much blood as normal. This means your body needs more iron to produce more hemoglobin for all the extra blood. You also need more iron for your growing baby and placenta. If you know you need to replenish iron, get tested first with your midwife, and we have iron for pregnant women: Mary Ruth Prenatal & Postnatal Iron Helhetshälsa Iron Syrup Although iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia, folate deficiency is considered the second most common cause and often occurs together with iron deficiency, which is one of the reasons why folate is so important for a healthy pregnancy. Your midwife should always check your status through blood tests. Folate/folic acid should be included in your multivitamin. It is also important that your multivitamin contains vitamin D. Unfortunately, the truth is that not all prenatal multivitamins are the same. Nutritional value and ingredient quality can vary greatly, which is why it’s important to choose a prenatal vitamin from natural brands of high quality with as few additives as possible. Remember, you don’t want unnecessary fillers, synthetic anti-caking agents, or harmful additives like gluten, dairy, soy, GMOs, pesticides, polyvinylpyrrolidone, and magnesium stearate in your product. And they should definitely not be listed as the first ingredients in a product. 2. Omega 3 Pregnant women may be deficient in omega-3 fatty acids, especially if they do not regularly eat omega-3-rich foods. If you do not eat fish or other foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, your midwife will likely recommend supplementation in addition to prenatal vitamins. During the last eight weeks of pregnancy, your baby's brain grows faster than ever. Research suggests that high-quality Omega 3 is a good choice during this time because brain cells are growing rapidly. Some studies have shown that supplemental DHA during pregnancy supports hand-eye coordination, motor skills, IQ levels, and even attention. Vegetology’s Opti 3 is suitable for pregnant women, both in capsules and liquid form. Even prenatal omega 3 is designed specifically for pregnant women. Omega 3 is also excellent. 3. Good Gut Bacteria Your baby's small gut environment is mostly sterile until birth, when it is seeded by your bacteria during the birth process, skin-to-skin contact, and their first foods. Your child's gut health is influenced by external factors such as your diet, how the child is born (cesarean or vaginal delivery), and the microbes in breast milk or formula if you cannot breastfeed. Taking supplements with lactic acid bacteria during pregnancy and breastfeeding balances your microbiome so you can pass on the good bacteria to your little one and encourage your child's microbiome to thrive. A strong foundation for your child's health. Besides supplementing with friendly gut bacteria, it is a good idea to focus on fermented foods like kefir, miso, and sauerkraut, as they are also rich in naturally occurring bacteria that support health. 4. Calcium It can also be a good idea to supplement with a natural form of calcium combined with magnesium. Many pregnant women do not reach the recommended daily calcium intake. However, calcium is not always routinely recommended for pregnant women. It can be important for women at high risk of developing preeclampsia or for women with a low calcium intake from their diet. Among the most common causes of calcium deficiency are lack of vitamin D and magnesium or an illness. Calcium is very important for bones and teeth. It builds and maintains a strong skeleton. Extra Tips Nausea For morning sickness and nausea during the day, ginger can be helpful. Use a little fresh ginger when cooking soups and stir-fries. Sprinkle some dried ginger on your oatmeal for breakfast or add ginger to a smoothie. If ginger doesn’t do the trick, many mothers and midwives recommend acupuncture. Choose foods high in protein, low in fat, and easy to digest. Avoid oily, spicy, and fatty foods. Drinking enough fluids helps soothe your stomach and rehydrate your body if you vomit. Plain water is always a good choice, but sometimes a cup of herbal tea is a good drink to ease nausea. Not all teas are safe during pregnancy, so stick to herbal teas like chamomile, raspberry, lemon, peppermint. Adding lemon or ginger to your tea can also help relieve nausea. Stretch marks You can prevent stretch marks by taking care of your skin from the inside out. Nurture the body's largest organ by staying hydrated from within by drinking water and eating plenty of foods rich in vitamin C, such as red and green peppers, blueberries, blackcurrants, kale, cabbage, broccoli, and citrus fruits. And if you suffer from dry or itchy skin during pregnancy, natural moisturizers like organic coconut oil or pure, natural shea butter are safe and healthy options to support your growing belly and stretching skin. To prevent stretch marks, you should apply cream every day, for example a blend like Really Good Stretch Mark Oil which is great for improving skin elasticity. You can also make your own mix with coconut oil or shea butter, pure cocoa butter, and skin oil such as jojoba oil or apricot kernel oil. DIY Mom's stretch mark cream 4 dl unrefined cocoa butter 2 dl coconut oil or pure shea butter 4 dl jojoba oil or apricot kernel oil How do you do it? Heat the cocoa butter on low heat in a saucepan until it is completely melted. Remove from heat and add the remaining butters or oils. Mix together and whisk on low speed. Cover the mixture and place it in the freezer for 1-2 hours until it is completely firm but soft to the touch. Whisk the mixture with an electric mixer for several minutes until it increases in volume and becomes light and fluffy. Pour into your jar or final container. All mothers want to do everything to contribute to a healthy and happy baby. We hope this guide can help you give a little extra love and nourishment to your next miracle!
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Balance hormones naturally during PMS & menopause
...things that can affect women a little or a lot. Some go through life without problems, some feel it, and some struggle through the days during menstruation or have very severe menopausal symptoms. In this article, we explain what we can do to support ourselves and which supplements we can take. For severe symptoms, it is important to seek help. 1. PMS PMS or premenstrual syndrome refers to the symptoms many women may experience around ovulation and until menstruation. Common PMS symptoms include mood swings, irritation, anger, worry, anxiety, sleep problems, low self-esteem, and swollen breasts. Other symptoms can be heavy bleeding, headaches, bloating, tender breasts, fluid retention, or restless legs. When menstruation then starts, the problems usually disappear completely and you feel like yourself again. What can PMS be caused by? This often reflects an imbalance in our system. It can be related to: Unhealthy diet Nutrient deficiencies Lack of sleep Lack of exercise – movement The body has difficulty detoxifying, and liver function is not optimal Low serotonin Low progesterone or an imbalance between progesterone and estrogen Serotonin Studies have shown that PMS symptoms are linked to low levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin is a calming neurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, sexuality, and appetite, among other things. It is produced from tryptophan. You can increase serotonin through exercise, certain foods, physical contact, massage, sunlight, meditation, relaxation, and a well-functioning stomach and intestines. Progesterone Progesterone has many functions in the body. Among other things, it protects the uterine lining from becoming too thick under the influence of estrogen. It optimizes and balances estrogen's function, is important for sleep and our mental health. Progesterone dominates after ovulation. For many women, progesterone can drop too low after ovulation, leading to estrogen dominance (too much estrogen relative to progesterone), which is linked to PMS. Fluid retention and tender breasts are signs of estrogen dominance, meaning there is more estrogen than progesterone. A wise person said, "Progesterone is the hostess at the party who lets in estrogen & testosterone and makes sure they are well taken care of." Progesterone is the first hormone to decrease in the body after about age 35. Estrogen Estrogen is the most important female sex hormone. It causes the female body to develop breasts and wider hips. Estrogen keeps our mucous membranes hydrated and dominates before ovulation. When balanced with progesterone, the mood is stable. Estrogen decreases as we enter menopause and then continues to decline. 2. Perimenopause As the ovaries' hormone production decreases, a woman first goes through perimenopause, then menopause, and finally enters postmenopause. Perimenopause can begin up to ten years before menopause. During perimenopause, you may have the same PMS symptoms as before, but the symptoms do not stop in the same way when your period starts. Periods may come more frequently, you may feel tired and possibly have anemia. Periods can become heavier with clots in the blood. You may also experience sweating and sleep problems. When you are in perimenopause, the ovaries can still produce progesterone, but they may need a boost. If you want to know which phase you are in, you can take a blood test. 3. Menopause Menopause is the period when menstruation becomes irregular before it eventually stops. This usually happens between ages 50-52. You may experience low mood, fatigue, dizziness, constipation, sleep problems, dry skin, dry hair, joint pain, dry mucous membranes, and hot flashes as estrogen decreases. Hot flashes and dry mucous membranes are the most common symptoms. When you have had your last period and a year has passed, you are in postmenopause, meaning menstruation has now ceased. Menopausal symptoms can, however, continue for up to five years after menopause; this varies from woman to woman. About five years after your last menstruation, the body’s estrogen production has decreased to a steady and very low level. Postmenopause is the time after menopause and lasts for the rest of a woman’s life. Supplements for women The gastrointestinal tract – the foundation Building up the gut is one of the most important things we can do for our health; this applies to all women at all stages. Optimizing gut function helps ensure that excess estrogen can be effectively eliminated from the body. This also applies to our liver function. As we mentioned in the article above, we can influence serotonin levels through a well-functioning stomach and intestines. Serotonin is both calming and mood-enhancing. There is increasing talk about the connection between the gut and the brain. It has been shown that the health of the gastrointestinal tract – also known as the gut microbiome – can directly affect brain chemistry and our mood. The good news is that if we improve our gut health, we can often also improve our mental health and feel more stable. And no one likes having digestive problems; it really affects our quality of life negatively. Of course, diet has the greatest impact on our gut health! We talk more about that further down. But certain supplements can significantly support our digestion. For poor digestion Enzymes Bitter herbs Hydrochloric acid Lactic acid bacteria Spore-forming good bacteria are suitable for those with digestive issues like dysbiosis (imbalance in the gut), IBS, SIBO. If you have problems with fungi, such as candida, you may need herbs that counteract it; we recommend: Oregano oil Olive leaf Pau d'arco Specific enzymes Candida Balance is an excellent product with a mix of herbs and enzymes. Brevibacillus laterosporus is a bacterial strain that supports the digestive system and clears harmful organisms such as Candida. For PMS Zinc is anti-inflammatory and supports muscle tension, mood swings, and the immune system. Omega 3 is important for healthy hormone function and to counteract inflammation in the body. Magnesium is a muscle relaxant and can help relieve pain and cramps. B-complex. A B-complex with extra B6 can be beneficial for PMS symptoms. Among other things, it helps protect against estrogen dominance. Selenium – a fantastic antioxidant that contributes to both normal thyroid function and the immune system's normal function. Selenium supports liver detoxification and helps promote the elimination of excess estrogen. Vitamin C at doses of at least 750 mg per day has been shown to increase progesterone in women. Supports the mucous membrane's barrier function. There is also a specialty product from Holistic called Femmebalans. Some choose progesterone cream (available online) to raise progesterone levels. Research this online. For Menopausal Symptoms Omega 3 is important for healthy hormone function and to counteract inflammation in the body. Magnesium is muscle-relaxing and helps us relax. Best taken in the evening. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that counteracts inflammation. Vitamin D improves the immune system. B vitamins are very important for many functions in the body, including being crucial for effective estrogen metabolism in the liver. Vitamin C supports the immune system, collagen formation, and the mucous membrane's barrier function. Selenium – a fantastic antioxidant that contributes to both normal thyroid function and strengthens the immune system. Selenium supports liver detoxification. Q10 plays an important role in producing energy in the cell's power plants, the mitochondria, and supports the heart. Q10 decreases as we age. Holistic has a nice specialty product called FemmePaus. Calcium-D-glucarate supports liver function and helps eliminate excess estrogen and toxins from the body. Many choose hormone therapy. We recommend choosing bioidentical hormone therapy: bioidentical estrogen and bioidentical progesterone. Usually, this involves estrogen patches or estrogen spray and oral progesterone. This should be done in consultation with a gynecologist/doctor. Today, several private clinics offer this. Regular endometrial monitoring is also recommended. This is done with the help of a gynecologist. Other supplements that may be important Multivitamin is good as a base to replenish a bit of everything in the right balance. You can then "top up" with other extra supplements you need during certain periods. Multimineral – may be needed as a base, and this one without iron and copper is perfect for women. If you take a multimineral, you need to review your other supplements to avoid overdosing on, for example, selenium or zinc. Nascent Iodine can help relieve breast pain from fluid-filled cysts and fibroadenomatosis but is also important for thyroid health. Iron supplements – it is good to take a blood test first to see if you need iron. You should take both iron and ferritin tests. If you bleed a lot, it can really be necessary, which can happen during perimenopause and menopause. Anemia caused by iron deficiency can cause great fatigue. After menstruation has stopped, iron is generally not needed. If you often get urinary tract infections, special supplements like Uribalans are a great help; many women also find oregano oil helpful for this, along with extra vitamin C! Feel free to read more about supplements and herbs for women. Counteract stress With stress, you may need special supplements. Managing and counteracting stress is very important for women's health. The adrenal glands' functions are usually the first endocrine functions to fail when the body's normal compensatory response is overwhelmed by stress. You can then take both herbs and supplements that counteract or regulate stress; here are some tips. Lemon balm Chamomile The amino acid GABA Glycine If cortisol levels are too high, too low, or both within the same day, you can, for example, take the herb Ashwagandha. Other fantastic adaptogenic herbs that contribute to balance in the body can be Rhodiola, Astragalus, Chaga, Reishi, Licorice, or Schisandra. In this text, you can read more about adaptogens. Lifestyle – 3 essentials To feel good and satisfied in life, we all know that knowledge about a problem and supplements are not enough. The most important foundation in life is our lifestyle and our attitude towards it. Menopause is usually an easier period for us if we have built stable, healthy foundations long before, during perimenopause or earlier. 1. Relaxation & intimacy Using lifestyle techniques that calm the nervous system such as meditation, relaxation, and yoga is very helpful. Being out in nature, in forests and fields or by water is beneficial for the whole system. Everyone needs recovery. Relax and unwind. Treat yourself to a massage. It is important to understand that dysfunctional stress in the body is a major cause of hormonal imbalances. Being close to a partner, friends, and family for warmth and connection is essential. Laughing and enjoying together. Oxytocin raises testosterone in men and lowers cortisol. In women, it stimulates estrogen and improves thyroid function. Doing things we like, love, and enjoying life is also essential. Set aside time every day for activities you find fun and interesting, things that awaken your inner joy. 2. Move your body It is important to find something you enjoy so you really want to go and exercise. Exercise is especially important during PMS or menopause symptoms. Feel free to choose your type of exercise depending on how you feel. With good health, intense training and yoga with stretching might be ideal. If you have been or are burned out/highly stressed, intensive training is not recommended at first; the body needs gentler exercise for a longer period. Then activities like yoga, dance, swimming, or brisk walking may be suitable. Bouncing on a trampoline is great for our lymphatic system and skeleton. Strength training is very beneficial for the body's overall defense and stability and becomes even more important with age as the skeleton needs resistance. Strength training (done correctly) prevents and counteracts osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, arthritis, pain, and back problems. Being physically active supports not only the body's organs, skeleton, and muscles, but can also help with sleep problems, anxiety, worry, low mood, depression, and stress. It also improves self-esteem and increases overall well-being. 3. The diet Eating healthily and nutritiously is a key to long-term health. Vegetables, berries, fruit, algae, seaweed, fermented vegetables, sprouts, beans, lentils, quinoa, tofu, tempeh, nuts, seeds, avocado, good cold-pressed oils, organic eggs, and other healthy foods depending on your diet choice. Keeping your blood sugar stable is important, especially after a certain age; for many, it’s easier if you start your day with a protein smoothie. Long-term stress affects blood sugar, so everything is connected. The older we get, the fewer carbohydrates we need, while we still need good protein and plenty of nutrients. Choose "good" carbohydrates like sweet potatoes, cauliflower, rutabaga, beets, pumpkin, legumes, lentils, brown rice, quinoa, fruit, berries, etc. See what suits you best when it comes to diet. What we know truly suits everyone regardless of diet choice is to eat plenty of vegetables in all the colors of the rainbow! And remember to drink water – preferably with lime or lemon. Tips If you want to learn more about women's phases and bioidentical hormones, we invite you to visit Mia Lundin's website. Her blog is informative and she has extensive experience helping women with imbalances. Also the site hormoni.se is very good. It was created by Silvia Oppenheim who has been and continues to be a great support for women. You can easily become a member, ask questions, and read answers. If you live in Stockholm and are looking for a doctor specialized in gynecology and women's health, we recommend Isis Amer-Wåhlin at 2heal. Another site with great information is vulverine.se. At Werlabs or Blodkollen or at Holistic you can take several different blood tests, for example to check hormone status, thyroid health, or levels of iron or folic acid and much more.
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Optimize fertility naturally for you & your partner
There are many couples who want to conceive but unfortunately do not, and who struggle for several years. The number of infertility cases continues to rise worldwide. Primary infertility is defined as not being able to conceive despite having frequent, unprotected sex for at least one year. Causes of infertility There can be many causes of infertility, including: Poor diet and nutrient imbalances Emotional stress Sexually transmitted diseases Thyroid problems Candida fungus (often in women) Medical conditions Eating disorders Excessive exercise Obesity Hormonal problems PCOS Environmental toxins and heavy metals in the body (often in men) The good news The good news is that there are natural alternatives. It’s worth trying the natural route before turning to costly, often exhausting, and emotionally draining infertility treatments. Here we share seven things we recommend you do first. 7 important things that optimize fertility in women & men 1. Eat healthily One of the most important things is to eat a clean and healthy diet. Choose organic foods. Pesticides can affect estrogen and other hormones, so it’s important to choose organic and clean products as much as possible. Make sure to eat a nutritious, colorful diet with all vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients (antioxidants), and fatty acids. 2. Take supplements that support fertility Prenatal multivitamins Prenatal multivitamins are carefully designed supplements for women who want to conceive, are pregnant, or breastfeeding. It’s important to choose a high-quality supplement and avoid the cheapest options that may contain the wrong type of folate/B9. Men should also take a multivitamin as a base to replenish nutrients. It takes about 90 days for men to produce new sperm, so it can take up to three months before you see benefits from lifestyle changes. Vitamin C Vitamin C can help support sperm count in men and trigger ovulation in women. Vitamin C also helps the body absorb iron, which is an important nutrient for women. B vitamins Many B vitamins are involved in estrogen metabolism. For example, folate or folic acid (B9) is a B vitamin that helps the body build new cells and prevent birth defects. Vitamin E Vitamin E is an important vitamin for fertility because it helps with hormone balance. Vitamin E is also good for sperm production. Zinc Zinc is an important mineral for reproduction. Zinc is often very beneficial for male fertility and sperm production, so it is recommended. Q10 Q10 is linked to positive results regarding sperm health. More data is needed to confirm this connection, but many couples claim this supplement has helped them on their fertility journey. Vitamin D Research shows that if you have a deficiency in vitamin D, supplementation can increase fertility. Do a vitamin D test with your doctor first, so you know if you need it. Selenium Selenium is an important mineral and antioxidant that supports the immune system, liver detoxification, and contributes to normal thyroid function. Gut flora Poor gut health is a common cause of nutrient deficiencies, poor detoxification ability, and increased inflammation in the body, which can be a problem for both partners when trying to conceive. Taking care of gut health with probiotics – or lactic acid bacteria is a key to overall health and thus also for fertility and mood. Omega-3 Fatty acids, especially omega-3, are important for overall health. Omega-3 fats have anti-inflammatory properties that affect many health aspects, including fertility. Femme Fertil+ Holistics Femme Fertil+ promotes fertility and is a supplement for women that supports fertility and provides thoughtful nutrition before, during, and after pregnancy. Homme Viril+ Holistics Homme Viril+ is a supplement for men that supports male fertility. The product provides nutrients needed for healthy energy levels, sexual desire, and good fertility. Ovarian Care Thorne's product Ovarian Care for women offers a unique blend of nutrients that support reproductive health, fertility, and a regular menstrual cycle. It also provides nutritional support for women with PCOS_._ 3. Don’t underestimate rest Reducing stress as a solution for infertility often ends up at the bottom of the list, but it is so important! Our bodies and minds are designed for regular rest and recovery on a very deep level. Learning to relax in our daily lives, to sleep deeply at night, and to spend free time without a computer, to-do list, or phone is essential for our hormonal balance. This is the perfect opportunity to review priorities, determine what causes the most stress, and eliminate it. If it’s not possible to eliminate stress completely, you need to find healthy ways to manage and reduce it. 4. Make sure to sleep 8h/night Besides keeping stress levels low, sleep is crucial for improving fertility, both for men and women. The average woman (30-60 years) gets only about six hours of sleep per night during a workweek. Sleeping (or not sleeping) has a powerful effect on the body’s hormonal system. If you don’t get enough sleep, both the hormone cycle and ovulation can be disrupted. You should aim to sleep eight hours per night. 5. Regular exercise Many can immediately feel the difference when they work out. Mood improves, they sleep better, and they may experience increased sexual desire. All these changes happen alongside hormonal shifts. For example, we often hear that the “feel-good hormone” serotonin increases with exercise. Our bodies are made to be active every day. If you want to get pregnant, it’s important to exercise regularly to balance your hormones. Hormones play a big role in almost every process related to conception, from the release of the egg to the condition of the sperm and their ability to reach and fertilize the egg. 6. Remember daylight & joy Sunlight affects not only our mood but our entire hormonal state, immune system, and well-being. It is recommended that you get a minimum of 30-60 minutes of daylight outdoors per day. Also remember to schedule time during the week to do things that bring joy! A smile, a laugh, a warm feeling – it makes a big difference. 7. Review kitchen & bathroom Something you’d rather ignore is environmental toxins; it’s not pleasant to think about all that can harm the body. But among environmental toxins, there is a special class of compounds called hormone disruptors that can affect fertility. A particular hormone-disrupting substance is bisphenol A (BPA), which reduces egg quality and egg viability. BPA is used to make hard plastic. So make sure to use as little plastic as possible in the kitchen, and if possible, try to go plastic-free. For example, do not use plastic to store or heat food and water. Throw away all conventional body care products that contain synthetic and chemical ingredients. By switching to natural cleaning products, beauty products, and skincare products and avoiding plastic, you reduce the toxin load in your body and improve fertility. What tips do you have to increase fertility? Share in a comment so we can learn from each other! In this article, you can read about supplements during pregnancy.
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5 Simple Spirulina Recipes for Nutritious Everyday Meals
Most people only use spirulina as a powder to mix into smoothies for an extra nutritional boost. Spirulina contains an astonishing amount of nutrients, including antioxidants like chlorophyll and beta-carotene, vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids. It is also very rich in protein and contains all essential amino acids. A full 65-71% of spirulina's weight consists of protein, making it more than twice as protein-rich as meat, measured by protein per gram. In other words, it is superfood in its true sense, and something we like to incorporate into food in more ways than just smoothies. Here are 5 of our favorite recipes that are excellent for adding spirulina to your daily diet in a more varied way. 1. Spirulina Dressing 1/2 large avocado or one small whole1 tsp spirulina1 small zucchini (de-salted and chopped)0.5 dl hemp seeds1 tbsp white miso2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice1 dl water (or more if you want it thinner) Place all ingredients in a high-speed blender and blend until desired consistency. 2. Spirulina Pesto 2 dl walnuts (soaked overnight)3 dl baby spinach1 dl fresh basil1 tsp spirulina or AFA algae2 tbsp olive oil1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice1 garlic clove1 dl water3 tbsp nutritional yeast1/2 tsp natural salt First blend the nuts in a high-speed blender.Then blend in the rest until desired consistency and season with salt. 3. Spirulina Kale 1 kale, washed and cut into suitable pieces0.5 dl nutritional yeast1 tbsp spirulina1 tbsp paprika powder Mix all powders together in a bowl with a spoon.Rub the kale with the powder.Place in a dehydrator or regular oven until crispy. 4. Spirulina Water 500 ml sparkling water1 fresh lemon6 drops stevia or another sweetener like xylitol1-2 tsp spirulina depending on mood Squeeze the lemon juice into a large glass pitcher.Add sweetener and spirulina.Pour in sparkling water and mix. 5. Spirulina Nicecream 2 frozen bananas (peeled)1-2 large handfuls baby spinach1 tsp spirulina Place all ingredients in a high-speed blender and blend.Garnish with fruit.
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The conditioner method for dry and damaged hair
Have you tried all kinds of shampoos that are supposed to be good for dry and damaged hair but still haven't found the right one? For you, the very best shampoo might be no shampoo at all if your hair is very damaged and worn. Then the conditioner method might be something to try. With the conditioner method, you wash your hair clean using only conditioner. 5 benefits of the conditioner method With the conditioner method, you can wash your hair every day without damaging the hair quality. The conditioner method: Makes dry hair shiny. Makes colored hair last longer. Repairs damaged hair. Enhances curls. Makes the scalp produce less oil. In general, both hair and scalp become healthy with the conditioner method, and it is an easy way to save damaged hair. Step 1: Deep clean with a "final shampoo" before you start A so-called "final shampoo" is needed to wash away deposits of silicones, mineral oils, and other hard-to-dissolve chemicals from hair and scalp before you begin the conditioner method. If you already use natural and organic hair products, no final shampoo is needed. One of these shampoos works as a "final shampoo": – Shampoo no. 4 from Bruns – Shampoo Repair from Eco Cosmetics Your final shampoo should have pure, natural ingredients and be strong enough to clean. Usually, a shampoo with sulfates is recommended, but it works just as well if the shampoo contains milder soap agents like these. How to do it: Massage the shampoo into your entire hair. Rinse out. Repeat the washing step until the hair feels "squeaky clean." The hair may feel tangled and rough (no worries!). Detangle the hair with a natural conditioner (see conditioners below). Wash your hair this way 1-3 times or until the hair feels really clean, shinier, and more manageable. The reason your shampoo and conditioner should have pure ingredients is so they don’t add more of the substances you want to wash away. They give your hair a good and fresh new start so the transition to the conditioner method becomes easy. Tip! It’s good to occasionally reset your hair again with your final shampoo. This is because air pollution and minerals in our water can stick firmly to the hair strands and become difficult to wash away with conditioner alone. Step 2: Start washing your hair with conditioner Since fat dissolves fat, it works perfectly to clean hair using only conditioner. But this places higher demands on your conditioner. Further down you will find our 3 favorite conditioners for the conditioner method. Keep in mind that conditioner does not lather, which requires a bit more time and effort to distribute in the hair and to dissolve dirt. With the conditioner method, you may initially need to wash your hair a bit more often. In that case, continue washing with conditioner until your scalp gets used to it. Be patient and hang in there! How to do it: Wet your hair with water. Distribute your conditioner on the scalp and massage carefully for a while so that dead skin cells and oil dissolve. Rinse the conditioner thoroughly with water. Be sure to rinse out all the conditioner. Otherwise, the hair may feel flat and oily after washing. If needed, finish with a more nourishing conditioner like a hair mask on the ends and lengths that protects the hair, makes it easier to detangle, and repairs dry and damaged hair. Rinse with water. Conditioners for the conditioner method The conditioners you use for the conditioner method must be free from sulfates, silicones, mineral oils, hard-to-dissolve chemicals, and drying alcohols. They should not weigh the hair down and should be lighter in consistency while still being able to clean hair and scalp without leaving a greasy feeling. These organic conditioners are suitable for the conditioner method: – Eco Cosmetics Conditioner with Jojoba & Green Tea – Dr Sannas Volume Conditioner – Bruns Conditioner No. 04 Magic Citrus Remember that a healthy scalp is the straightest path to healthy hair! Read more about how you can take care of your scalp to detoxify hair and scalp as well as to prevent itchy scalp.
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