The Photovoltaic Podcast – Détails, épisodes et analyse

An unmissable podcast exploring the challenges of setting up a successful CAM practice post covid, when most people now accept the need to be communicating and offering online services.

In this unmissable podcast for anyone looking to set up or expand their CAM practice, Andrew discusses with Mary Greensmith, founder of Homeopathy 247 and Natural Health Courses Online, the challenges that CAM Graduates face as they start to take their clinical practice online.

Mary explains that within her courses, designed to mentor CAM practitioners through their start-up challenges, how important it is to build a strong repour with potential clients, and methods to identify potential people with similar interests, rather than waste hours on ineffective social media. 

In short, these courses can save would-be CAM practitioners hours of time and expense when setting up their practice.

learn more: https://postgrad-homeopath.com/courses-for-health-practitioners/

Save 25% off course throughout August for all CAM practitioners  https://naturally-minded.mykajabi.com/offers/2DFEuNZh/checkout?coupon_code=BUILDMYBUSINESS25

sign up here: https://postgrad-homeopath.com/build-your-international-homeopathic-practice-webinar/ 

Andrew and Barbara Wren explore the physiological effects of stress in connection with Cellular hydration.

In this insightful podcast, we look at ways that we can self-empower ourselves with techniques and an understanding of how to best handle the anxiety we all seem to be facing more and more these days.

Looking at protecting our levels of hydration and appropriate electrolyte levels to enable us to deal with this pressure more efficiently. Reviewing the role of juicing, smoothies, and broths, when promoting great hydration with a more alkaline manner and its effects on Henrik Krammers 16 stages of cellular change.

www.conellaholdings.com

This week Andrew Wren interviews Barbara Cousins, the author of the wonderful cook book entitled "Easy, Tasty, Healthy Food".

According to a panel of experts from the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN UK), the ongoing situation surrounding Coronavirus could soon lead to dietary deficiencies among the country’s population, with a potentially detrimental impact on our immune function and ability to fight disease.

In the view of CRN UK, if existing circumstances prevail, we could soon begin to experience a severe lack of certain micronutrients in our diets, including vitamins A, B, C, and D, and minerals such as copper, iron, selenium, and zinc.

Professor David Richardson, a scientific advisor for the body, explains: “Although messages about the importance of a balanced diet and a healthy active lifestyle underpin nutritional advice to the public, now, more than ever, there is also a need for evidence-based scientific advice about the role food supplements play in the provision of essential nutrients.”

According to Professor Richardson, food supplements have long formed part of the strategic dietary recommendations handed out by medical professionals to vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, women at various stages of the reproductive lifecycle, and young people.

As Professor Richardson explains, one of the reasons for this is that these supplements can play a key role in supporting immune function among individuals of all ages; a truth that is more fundamental to our wellbeing now, with Covid-19 impacting the world around us, than it has ever been before.

The takeaway from this is simple: that by refining our eating and focusing on our nutrient intake, we have the power to enhance our immune response and give ourselves an improved chance of staying well and healthy moving forward.

The BDA’s recommendations

While it’s easy to feel hopeless and/or helpless in the current situation, now is actually the time to be proactive about our health, and one way to support your immune system is by ensuring that you’re taking care of your body by eating a balanced diet.

According to the British Dietetic Association (BDA), this should include a number of essential vitamins and minerals, including copper, iron, folate, zinc, selenium, and vitamins A, B, C, and D, all of which can play an important role in enhancing immune function.

The organisation states that those who are self-isolating or not able to go outdoors should take this advice particularly seriously, and recommend that they add a daily supplement of vitamin D to their diets to make up for the lack of natural sunlight they are experiencing.

They suggest that this key vitamin can be included in our diets not only through the addition of supplements, but by eating certain foodstuffs too, such as cod liver oil, infant formula, oily fish, and certain yoghurts that have had vitamin D added.

Supporting your mental health

According to the CRN UK, adding these key foodstuffs to your diet can not only help to support immune function but can be beneficial to your mental health too, with many finding that current circumstances are taking a significant toll on this.

Indeed, a number of studies show a correlation between poor mental state and nutritional deficiencies and health conditions stemming from brain-based inflammation, which is believed to be strongly linked to gut health.

Supporting this, there is further research to indicate that particular food supplements, like omega-3, magnesium, zinc, and vitamins B and D, can help in improving people’s emotional wellbeing, while also relieving conditions such as depression and anxiety.

World Health Organisation guidance

In a further show of solidarity, the World Health Organisation has also taken the unprecedented step of releasing supportive nutritional guidance at this time, emphasising that a good and balanced diet is key “in times when the immune system might need to fight back.”

As well as limiting the inta

What are they?

Probiotics are live bacteria, or microorganisms, found in the digestive tract which have been shown to benefit human health and contribute to a healthy microbiome.  The microbiome refers to the balance of different types of bacteria in the gut and a healthy microbiome contains plenty of beneficial strains (or probiotics).  Numerous studies show that a healthy microbiome can positively influence many aspects of human health, including digestion, mental health, and immunity. 

Probiotics are found in certain fermented foods like yoghurt, kimchi (fermented and spiced vegetables), kombucha (fermented tea), sauerkraut (fermented cabbage), kefir (fermented milk or water), tempeh and miso (fermented soya).  Probiotics may also be taken as a food supplement. 

Probiotics are also passed from mother to baby via the birth canal during childbirth and via breast milk.  The mother’s probiotic status is, therefore, an important consideration during pregnancy, given that her baby will also inherit the same microbiome.

There are a number of different probiotic strains, but the most studied strains with proven health benefits include Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium varieties, as well as the yeast saccharomyces boulardii.

How do they work?

The health benefits of probiotics relate to the following mechanisms: -

1.        Improved integrity of the epithelial barrier

The epithelial barrier is a defence mechanism that helps to maintain the integrity of the gut and protect the rest of the body from bacteria, food antigens and other potentially toxic substances passing into the bloodstream and triggering an inflammatory response. Consumption of non-pathogenic bacteria can enhance this barrier function, and probiotic bacteria have been extensively studied for their involvement in the maintenance of this barrier.  It is not yet fully understood how probiotics achieve this, but Lactobacillus, in particular, has been found to achieve positive results.

1.        Increased adhesion to the intestinal mucosa

For humans to benefit from probiotics, adhesion to the intestinal mucosa is essential.  This adhesion enables modulation of the immune system and antagonism against pathogens. Various strains of Lactobacillus Acidophilus and Bifidobacterium have been shown in studies to have these adhesion properties.

1.        Inhibition of pathogen adhesion

Probiotics cause alterations in the intestinal mucins which prevent pathogens from binding to the intestinal barrier.  These beneficial bacteria are degraded into antimicrobial peptides, which lends anti-pathogenic properties to the host when under attack from pathogens.

1.        Competitive exclusion of pathogenic microorganisms

Studies show probiotics, particularly Lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium, can crowd out and exclude pathogenic microorganisms.

1.        Production of anti-microorganism substances

Probiotics are involved in the production of several anti-microbial substances including organic acids, Bacteriocins, health promoting fatty acids and de-conjugated bile acids, all of which work to eliminate pathogens.

1.        Modulation of the immune system

Probiotics have been well researched for their immunomodulating properties.  They can influence both the innate and adaptive immune systems and downregulate intestinal inflammation (Bermudez-Brito et al, 2012).  Around 80% of human immune system

This week - David Green reviews the role of a lesser noncompound INDOLE, a special compound present in many cruciferous foods, like broccoli, Kale, Cauliflower, Cabbage, and even our own gut bacteria and its protective role in protecting our livers against Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver (NAFLD)that is reported to affect a staggering 33% of all UK adults.

I for one place a lot of faith in castor oil packing as a beneficial naturopathic technique. Administered for its anti-inflammatory and circulatory properties, it has been used as a natural remedy in countries across the world for centuries. 

Naturally occurring in India, castor oil has long been used in Ayurveda, a school of eastern medicine. Believed to be possessed of ‘hotness’, it was traditionally harnessed as a tool for resolving digestive issues and expelling toxins.

However, its medicinal benefits extend far beyond this, to include: 

• Pain relief and the reduction of inflammation

In modern medicine, drugs are widely prescribed to help combat pain and inflammation, despite evidence indicating their potential to adversely affect the digestive tract and hinder the ability of joint tissues to heal and repair. Castor oil can be used as a safer alternative, with topical application of it shown to be highly effective. 

• Detoxification and improved liver function

Castor oil can also be effective in supporting detoxification and liver function. One theory suggests that this efficacy is due to its emission of white light, which is believed to penetrate deep into the tissues, and stimulate cellular energy to reduce congestion and the stagnation of fluids. 

• Resolving constipation

Understandably, constipation can inhibit effective detoxification, as well as causing bloating, discomfort, and ineffective nutrient absorption, but castor oil can help with this too. Generally applied alongside some form of heat, such as a hot water bottle, it can relax the muscles and sphincters in the colon to allow easy passage for faecal matter. 

• Improving skin health

Castor oil has long been used to effectively treat inflammatory skin conditions. Increasing the presence of T-lymphocyte immune cells that exist below the surface of the skin, it supports the body’s immune response to help combat these unfortunate and often uncomfortable issues. 

• Healing cysts

The anti-inflammatory and circulatory properties of castor oil packing have the additional boon of helping to manage cysts, both internal and external.

• Fixing dry eyes

Last but not least, castor oil is commonly used to help remedy dry eyes. Frequently caused by Meibomian gland dysfunction, its application can significantly lessen symptoms and improve lubrication. 

Word of Caution: Castor oil packing should only be applied on the recommendations of a registered naturopath or practitioner.

Since the publication of two papers in the Journal of Biological Chemistry, by husband and wife team, George and Mildred Burr in the early 1900s, highlighting the potential health benefits of Omega 3, our understanding of this fascinating subject has developed precipitously, attracting vast media interest, fuelling an insatiable global demand estimated to be worth a staggering fifty-seven billion by 2025.    Despite this huge global demand, there remains much controversy within the media and medical profession, so what do we really know about the role of Omega 3 and its health-promoting properties.

What are essential fatty acids and why are they important?

Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid because the body cannot produce it, therefore it is necessary for us to obtain it through diet.  Omega-3 fatty acids have many important health benefits, including a role in reducing inflammation and in heart, brain, and nervous system health.  According to a Mintel - Attitudes towards Healthy Eating – UK, February 2017 Report,  29% of UK adults believe they are not getting enough ‘good’ fats (such as omega-3).

All fatty acids, including omega-3, are made up of chains of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen atoms.  Omega-3 is polyunsaturated, which means it has two or more bonds in its chemical structure.

Omega-6 is another essential fatty acid (also polyunsaturated), but unlike omega-3, omega-6 is thought to be pro-inflammatory when consumed excessively.  Omega-6 is important for energy production and plays an important role in the immune system, but this pro-inflammatory action can occur when too many of the signaling molecules called eicosanoids are produced by omega 6.  However, certain types of omega-6 fatty acids have been associated with certain health benefits.  Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) is a type of omega-6 found in oils such as evening primrose and borage oils.  Studies have found that GLA may reduce symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis, nerve pain in people with diabetic neuropathy and hypertension.  In addition, it may also increase the efficacy of drugs used to treat breast cancer.  Conjugated-Linolenic Acid (CLA) is another form of omega-6 which has been associated with potential health benefits.  One large study found that taking CLA supplements daily significantly reduced body fat mass in humans.

For humans to benefit from omega-3 fatty acids, the ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 in our diets is very important.  Humans developed on a diet that mainly consisted of wild game, marine life, and plants, which would have provided an omega 6:3 ratio of around 1:1.  The challenge today, with conventional farming and heavily processed foods rich in omega-6, is our diets are becoming much higher in omega-6 and lower in omega-3 fatty acids, which, scientists believe is leading to increased inflammation and associated health problems.  A typical western diet today has an omega-6 to omega-3 ratio of around 16:1. This is one of the main reasons why practitioners often recommend clients top-up their omega-3 intake with supplements, along with making dietary changes, such as eating organic and grass-fed meat, which contains a more healthy ratio of omega 6 to 3. 

Although there are 11 types of omega-3 in total, the three most important types of omega-3 fatty acids are ALA, EPA and DHA.  ALA is mostly found in plants, whilst EPA and DHA appear in oily fish and algae.  So, let’s look a little closer at these different omega-3 fatty acids.

1. ALA (Alpha-Linolenic Acid)

ALA, or Alpha-Linolenic Acid can be obtained from a variety of plants and seeds, including kale, s

The importance of the liver for overall health

The liver is the second largest organ (after the skin) of the human body and probably has the most diverse metabolic activity. It is part of the digestive system and performs many vital functions.  Many of these processes happen on membranes, either the plasma membrane or internal membranes of organelles, which are thought to add up to 33,000 square meters of the surface area [Kidd, 1996].  This is one probable reason why supporting healthy membranes through phospholipids may have such a protective effect on the liver.

The blood supply of the liver is different from other organs in that it receives oxygenated blood through the hepatic artery, but also deoxygenised blood from the digestive tract through the hepatic portal vein which is rich in absorbed nutrients and other, potentially harmful, substances which have been absorbed from the intestines.  From the hepatic artery and portal vein, blood flows into sinusoids which are endothelium-lined spaces (rather than capillaries), from there into central veins and on into the hepatic vein towards the heart and circulation around the body. In the sinusoids oxygen, nutrients and other substances are absorbed into the hepatocytes (liver cells) lining them, whilst compounds manufactured in the liver and nutrients needed elsewhere are excreted into the blood [Tartora and Grabowski].

This hepatic circulation system is the main reason for the so-called “first-pass effect” of drugs, the concentration and bioavailability of which can be greatly reduced due to the liver metabolising it post absorption [Pond and Tozer, 1984].

The sinusoids also contain Kupffer cells which are part of the immune system. As specialised macrophages, they “tidy up” old white and red blood cells, bacteria and other foreign compounds... continue reading

If you are vegan, this article may be of interest click here

We all know we should eat more fruit and veg and increasingly look to fortify our diets with our chosen “Super Food” powders.  However, many of these powders vary greatly in their active ingredients, raising the question; “What should we be looking for in our chosen “Super Food” powder?

First, let’s look at the ingredients found in most standard superfood blends: -

Spirulina

Spirulina is a type of nutrient-dense algae which contains potassium, calcium, chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, selenium, sodium and zinc, B vitamins, vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin K, and iron.  It is also packed with essential amino acids, which make up around 60-70% of its composition and contains omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids.  It’s one of the only vegan foods which contain EPA and DHEA.  A high level of antioxidants also helps to prevent potential free radical damage.

Spirulina’s skin-supporting nutrients may encourage healthier-looking skin and help to combat the effects of ageing.

Research suggests spirulina may have anti-viral and immune-boosting properties due to its nutrient-rich qualities and spirulina appears to have a beneficial influence on cholesterol profiles, increasing HDL and decreasing LDL and triglycerides.  It may also support blood glucose balance due to its high fibre content.  In addition, spirulina may aid weight loss by encouraging the elimination of toxins and preventing them from recirculating around the body, helping to increase energy levels by supporting mitochondria function and helping to balance hormones.  Spirulina also contains adrenal supporting nutrients, which may help to prevent stress impacting on our health and energy levels.

Chlorella

Another super algae with many similar properties to spirulina.  In addition to the above.  Chlorella is thought to aid detoxification of heavy metals and other toxins.  Chlorella may also enhance aerobic endurance due to its branched-chain amino acids content.  Chlorella may even help to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy.  There are many other potential benefits besides.

Alfalfa

Studies have suggested that alfalfa helps to lower cholesterol levels.  This is thought to be as a result of its saponins content – these are plant compounds known to lower cholesterol by inhibiting absorption of cholesterol into the gut and increasing elimination of cholesterol forming compounds.

Alfalfa may also stimulate metabolism and act as a phytoestrogen to relieve menopause symptoms.  It may also have antioxidant effects. 

Spinach

As practitioners, we all know how packed with nutrients spinach is. It is rich in vitamin C, folate, B vitamins, carotenoids, vitamin K, iron, magnesium, calcium, protein and insoluble fibre (aiding digestion).  It is also rich in nitrates, which are thought to help regulate blood pressure levels.

Broccoli

As well as being nutrient dense, broccoli is rich in indole 3 carbinole, a compound which aids metabolism and detoxification of excess oestrogen.  Studies suggest that it can, therefore, support prevention of oestrogen dominant cancers, such as breast, endometrial and cervical cancer.

Studies have also shown that broccoli may improve the health of the liver, colon, and prostate.

As if the above benefits were not enough, there is some thinking and initial research which suggests that these green, chlorophyll-rich superfoods may play a role in supporting our ability as humans to hold and convert light into energy or ATP, as plants do via photosynthesis.  This process could potentially, therefore, be helpful in supporting clients suffering with fatigue.  Chlorophyll may also be helpful in supporting a variety of conditions, such as: -

•        ageing or acne aff