Healthy by Nature issue 6 Spring 2019

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Healthy by Nature

Sharing a commitment to healthy communities

NEED HEALTH ADVICE?

Ask our in-store experts

ISSUE #6 SPRING 2019Sharing a committment to healthy communities

WOMEN’S WELLNESS

through the decades

Dr. Libby on women's

HORMONE

HEALTH Put a spring in your step

ESSENTIAL OILS

Why they should be part of your wellness kit

BEYOND YOUR

BEAUTY ROUTINE GOOD HEALTH FROM THE INSIDE OUT

Welcome...

THE NEW GOLD STANDARD

This spring our spotlight is on women’s wellness and we've been lucky enough to talk to some amazing people including Dr Bo Hendgen, the inspirational woman behind the successful brand Absolute Essential.

Dr Libby shares her insights into women's hormone health. There are a few hormones you might not have heard of that could be affecting your health more than you think.

When you are short of time in the morning, Renee and Jenna from

Real Health NZ share three easy breakfast recipes, which are perfect for grabbing on your way out the door in the morning.

We talk to Cees Hekelaar and his team at Way of Life in Pukekohe and discover why they love helping people and being part of the Community Health Stores group.

We hope you enjoy this issue and remember to focus on your own health this spring.

The Community Health Stores team

NEED HEALTH ADVICE?

In this issue 5.

Our store locations

6.

Need more spring in your step?

ASK OUR IN-STORE SPECIALISTS

Find your closest Community Health Store.

LIFT YOUR EXPECTATION. CHOOSE PURITI.

Product review Top night creams you must try.

12.

A higher quality Mānuka honey.

Rigorously tested to exceed export standard.

10.

We have been perfecting our certified natural skincare formulations for over three decades.

Are your hormones affecting your health?

Dr Libby reveals three hormones that could be playing a pivotal role in your overall well-being.

busy for breakfast?

18. Too We share three easy breakfasts

Why essential oils should be part of your wellness kit.

do their bit to reduce waste.

in the spotlight 22. Store We meet the team at Way of Life in Pukekohe.

Healthy by Nature is created by WOODS Agency for Community Health Stores.

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Thank you to: Alena Winter, Bronwyn Lowe, Casey Vassallo, Catherine Murray, Cees Hekelaar and the team at Way of Life, Claire Mossong, Dr Bo Hendgen, Dr Libby, Lauren Parker, Linda Macnamara, Rachael Nielsen, Renee Norman and Jenna Smith from Real Health NZ, Serena Donaldson, The Community Health Stores Group, Webstar Print.

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www. puriti.co.nz

*Get yours while stocks last. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion.

t i f i ed

Dr. Bo Hendgen 14. Meet from Absolute Essential

matters 21. Sustainability How our stores are helping to

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What you should be taking to maximise wellness in your 20s 30s 40s and beyond.

that you can make ahead of time and grab on the go.

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Supplements for all ages

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Five ways to help boost your energy levels.

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Store directory

CHS store directory The nation’s best independent natural health stores located throughout New Zealand.

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Health Essence Sylvia Park 286 Mount Wellington Highway Auckland Tel 09 573 0310 www.healthessence.co.nz Lemon Tree Organics 107 Queen St Auckland Tel 09 303 3107 www.lemontreeorganics.co.nz Lemon Tree Organics Westfield St Lukes Auckland Tel 09 846 4477 www.lemontreeorganics.co.nz Way of Life 66-68 Edinburgh Street Pukekohe Auckland Tel 09 238 7806

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WAIKATO Tonic Health Centre Place Shop 58 Centre Place 501 Victoria Street Hamilton Tel 07 839 2522 www.tonichealth.co.nz

Sharing a committment to healthy communities

Tonic Health Chartwell Shop 125 Chartwell Shopping Centre Hamilton Tel 07 854 8342 www.tonichealth.co.nz

Tonic Health The Base The Base Formation Drive Te Rapa Hamilton Tel 07 847 0340 www.tonichealth.co.nz The Herbal Dispensary 6 Wallis Street Raglan Tel 07 825 7444 www.theherbaldispensaryraglan.co.nz

TARANAKI The Health Shop Shop 18 Centre City Shopping Centre New Plymouth Tel 06 759 4342 www.thehealthshop.nz

LOWER NORTH ISLAND Health for Life The Plaza Shop 113 The Plaza Palmerston North Tel 06 356 7860 www.healthforlife.co.nz Health for Life Feilding 102 Fergusson Street Feilding Tel 06 323 8301 www.healthforlife.co.nz Health for Life Coastlands Shop 27 Coastlands Shoppingtown Paraparaumu Tel 04 296 1227 www.healthforlife.co.nz

For more information visit communityhealthstores.co.nz or follow us on

Need health advice?

Ask our in store experts Visit us at lifestream.co.nz

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Always read the label and use as directed. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional. Lifestream International Ltd, Auckland.

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Seasonal advice

Five ways to increase energy levels

Reduce Replenish Revitalise with Kiwiherb StressCare

Put a spring

in your step

Here are some tips from Community Health Stores naturopath Serena Donaldson on how to bounce into spring with restored energy levels for a fresh start to the new season.

Spring is a season of new beginnings, from the wonders of nature to the nurture of our own health and well-being. As we emerge from the cooler and shorter days of winter, our bodies often need a little help to recover from the challenges of our coldest season and to reset our baseline to a healthier level.

With lighter days and lifted moods, spring is a great time to replenish our depleted energy levels, ready to embrace the warmer days ahead.

Building energy with iron Iron is a common deficiency in women, due to blood loss during the menstrual cycle. The simplest way to increase iron is through dietary sources of haem iron, which is from meats like beef and lamb, and non-haem iron, which

is plant-based and found in foods like legumes and leafy greens. Haem iron is more bioavailable and a little easier to absorb than non-haem iron. It’s worth remembering too that while foods rich in vitamin C aid the absorption of iron, calcium-rich foods can interfere with its absorption.

If iron supplements are recommended, the best formulation is a bisglycinate, which is well-tolerated and avoids some of the digestive complaints often associated with iron supplements.

It’s always best to check with your GP and have a blood test prior to taking iron supplements, as taking too much iron can have similar symptoms to having low iron levels.

Fresh is best Eating in season means your body is getting nutrients from quality, locally-grown produce, which is also often more economical than purchasing imported fruit and vegetables. Avocados, peas, asparagus, courgettes and artichokes are just some of the produce we’ll start to see appearing in spring, so make the most of salads and dishes that champion these foods. It’s also beneficial to take a probiotic to assist with general health and well-being, with the added bonus of helping to reduce springtime allergies and hay fever too.

Spring cleaning Getting rid of unwanted toxins in the body is a sure way to enhance your energy levels. A liver which is under

"Keeping hydrated is key to optimal energy levels." stress can affect our overall health, leading to feeling sluggish, fatigue, bloating after meals, poor digestion, allergies, skin irritations, hormone imbalances and other unwanted symptoms. Alcohol is not the only thing that puts a strain on the liver; there are many aspects of life which can influence its health as it attempts to flush out toxins, including environmental pollution, excess sugar, processed foods, medications, and chemicals from household cleaners and beauty products.

The best way to look after your liver is to drink plenty of water. Fresh lemon juice in water will gently detox the liver, as will eating dark, leafy greens at each meal, along with raw carrot and beetroot. Drinking liver support herbal teas can also help with detoxing, as they can include herbs such as dandelion and milk thistle, which help the detoxification process and promote healthy liver cell renewal.

Water, water, everywhere Keeping hydrated is key to optimal energy levels, along with helping your body and its organs to function properly and efficiently. Symptoms of dehydration include tiredness, thirst, dry mouth, brain fog, headaches, sore

muscles and dry skin. You may also notice your urine is darker, rather than a pale yellow.

Plain water is the best remedy for dehydration, but if you’re in need of a change, try a fruit tea, iced peppermint tea, or water with a squeeze of fresh lemon, which also helps with digestion and liver detoxification. Keep in mind that caffeinated drinks such as regular tea and coffee dehydrate your body by about 1-2 cups of water, so for every cup of tea or coffee, have a glass of plain water. Make drinking water an easy habit by carrying a water bottle with you and setting a reminder on your phone to have a drink at regular intervals.

Magnificent magnesium Magnesium is a mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, influencing everything from stress to sleep, digestion to muscle relaxation, and blood sugar levels to mood. All of these aspects have an impact on energy levels.

Our bodies cannot synthesise magnesium, so in order for us to prevent a deficiency it needs to be consumed on a daily basis. Good sources of magnesium include almonds, dark leafy greens and good-quality dark chocolate. Magnesium supplements come in a variety of forms, including a powder, tablet, capsule, tissue salt and a topical oil or cream. One of the most well-absorbed, and least likely to give diarrhoea, is the bisglycinate form, with the citrate or amino acid chelate forms also well-tolerated.

Speak with your local CHS expert to find out the best options to improve your energy levels as you step into spring.

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Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet.

Always read the label and use as directed. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional. Phytomed Auckland.

A Healthy by Nature Promotion

Product review To find a skincare regime that is best for you, come in store and talk to our team.

Beauty from the inside and pregnancy support

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Supplements for beauty from within We need to be mindful of stress levels since it can cause acne, bags under the eyes, dry skin, rosacea, fine lines, and much more. Adding to the problem is all the blue light from our digital screens, which keeps us awake and disrupts our circadian rhythm, causing further oxidative stress. The best thing we can do for our skin is to get a good night’s sleep and reduce our stress levels. Try BioTrace Relax Complete* to help with sleep and balancing your mood. It’s packed full of the amino acid L-Theanine and a combination of powerful herbs. It’s great for encouraging relaxation without causing day-time drowsiness.

For silky hair, smooth skin and strong nails, an essential but commonly forgotten about mineral is silica. It’s also an important component of collagen growth and supporting bone density. It’s important to find a silica supplement that is easily absorbable and clinical research shows that the silica in Biotrace BioActive Silica* is four times better absorbed than other supplemental sources.

Supplements for pregnancy support For expectant and pregnant mothers, we have to be careful about what we put on our skin and also make sure we’re taking supplements that support the development of our baby and ensure we’re healthy.

Zinc is a vital mineral that supports skin health and most importantly foetus development. BioTrace Organic Zinc is derived from guava leaves, making it highly absorbable and vegan friendly. Zinc also boosts immunity, helps with gut health and digestion.

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Packed with natural anti-ageing and skin repair ingredients this overnight sensation helps to repair the signs of sun damage including fine lines, uneven skin tone and dryness. It includes resveratrol and hyaluronic acid to improve fine lines and smooth skin, along with vitamin C for antioxidant action and vitamin A to encourage skin cells to turn over faster for a smooth, healthy appearance.

Folate is an essential prenatal vitamin. It’s required for the body to make DNA and for cells to function. BioTrace’s Organic Folate is the perfect form, it is a food source making it easily absorbable, and being organic, it’s also vegan friendly. Supplementing with folate is important in the first few weeks of pregnancy and research has shown that folate supports foetus development.

Folate vs Folic Acid: What’s the difference?

Folate occurs naturally in foods and folic acid is synthetic.

The human body absorbs folate the best and has trouble converting and using folic acid.

If you’re experiencing fatigue, weakness, headaches, hair loss or cold hands and feet, it could be a sign of an iron deficiency this is especially common for women or people who are vegetarian or vegan. Iron is an essential mineral and helps transport oxygen throughout our body. Make sure to top up your iron levels with an organic and plant based form of iron such as BioTrace’s Organic Iron. It’s derived from curry leaves so it’s softer on the stomach and doesn’t cause constipation. It’s also vegan friendly making it perfect for everyone.

Talk to your local Community Health Store professional about how these products can help your skin glow naturally and support you through your pregnancy.

Do you find yourself going to bed every night without applying a night cream? Then you might be missing out. Night creams have a number of benefits…

The best one being that once applied to your face and neck, your night cream will do all the hard work while you sleep.

Top benefits from using a night cream

Nourishing Night Cream from Living Nature RRP $58.00

Living Nature's certified natural nourishing night cream is formulated 1. Helps to boost collagen levels with active manuka honey and nutrient in your skin. rich avocado oil, and works to restore 2. Keeps your skin hydrated while elastin and collagen levels for firmer, you sleep. younger-looking skin. It also increases 3. Can help to minimise fine lines moisture levels, plumping fine lines and wrinkles. and leaving your skin soft and dewy.

4. Accelerates the healing of skin.

Active manuka honey enhances your skin's natural renewal and healing At Community Health Stores we have process, while native super antioxidant, a range of natural skin care products Totarol, gives the cream an extra boost of available. Here are just a few of the antibacterial protection and fights skinnight creams you could try. free radicals.

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Avocado Pear Nourishing Night Cream from Antipodes RRP $62.50 This beautiful night cream includes native New Zealand manuka honey which draws moisture to your skin to promote a truly ageless visage.

It also contains a revolutionary Vinanza Grape; a potent antioxidant extract from Marlborough Sauvignon blanc grape seeds to help neutralise the effects of free radical damage that can lead to premature ageing.

Hormone health

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Could your hormones

be at the heart of your health challenges?

Dr Libby shares her insights into women's hormone health.

When it comes to our hormones, we tend to focus on just a few. Our sex hormones, estrogen and progesterone, get most of the limelight, followed closely by our stress hormones, adrenaline and cortisol.

But with over 50 hormones in the body, there are so many more playing a just as pivotal role in how we look and feel each and every day that we don’t hear as much about.

Let’s take a look at a few that you might not know so well.

Calcitonin This hormone is produced by certain cells in the thyroid gland to help regulate the levels of calcium and phosphate in the blood. We need a precise amount of calcium in the blood to maintain normal nerve function and muscle contraction – including of the heart.

Release of calcitonin is stimulated by an increase in blood calcium levels and it

10

works to prevent bone breakdown, which in turn prevents the release of more calcium into the blood.

It’s important to note, however, that levels of this hormone or calcium in the blood are not a reflection of your bone health or many other processes calcium is needed for. When you have a blood test for calcium, it will almost always be in the normal range because we have a hormonal regulatory system – involving calcitonin, calcitriol (active vitamin D) and parathyroid hormone – to ensure that.

Parathyroid hormone has an opposing action to calcitonin and it is the most important regulatory hormone for blood calcium. As the name suggests, this hormone is made by the parathyroid gland, the four lobes that sit in behind the thyroid gland. If blood levels of calcium drop too low it sends message to the bones, which essentially act as a reservoir of calcium for the blood, to release some calcium to top up blood levels.

woman’s body. Women need testosterone but the amount of it and its ratio to other hormones matters immensely. Too much or too little can lead to problems.

Did you know that about 80 of your serotonin is made in your gut?

Please know that if you have had your thyroid gland removed, the body is very clever and both calcitriol and parathyroid hormones can continue to regulate your blood calcium levels in the absence of calcitonin.

So while dietary calcium intake, your vitamin D status and weight-bearing exercises are all important for bone health, our hormones – including those mentioned above, plus others such as estrogen – play an enormous role too.

Testosterone The role that testosterone plays in male fertility is quite regularly discussed.

What’s not talked about as often is the role that testosterone plays in a

Too much and women may experience hair loss on our head, acne, mood changes that usually involve irritability, and we may find hair in places we don’t like such as the chin. Yet we need some testosterone for things like mood, energy, muscle mass, bone health and libido.

Like other sex hormones, women make testosterone in their ovaries and adrenal glands. If we have too much of it, it can be linked to too much of another hormone called insulin, which can occur with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

In order to address elevated testosterone, it’s almost always necessary to also address elevated insulin levels.

Serotonin As one of our happy, calm, content hormones, low levels of serotonin have been linked with depression. When we think about serotonin and mood, most people link it to brain health. But did you know that about 80% of your serotonin is made in your gut? Yep, it can be hard

to feel happy or content when you have gut challenges!

We are supposed to make serotonin in the daytime and melatonin at night-time.

Melatonin is our sleep hormone and it works antagonistically to serotonin (i.e. when one goes up the other goes down). But for some people, they end up around the wrong way. If this happens, you might find yourself feeling down and sleepy most of the day but great in the evening. It's not ideal for a great quality life, but there are small changes you can make (such as being mindful of reducing your exposure to light at night) that can help to get your melatoninserotonin production back on track.

Dr Libby is a nutritional biochemist, best-selling author, speaker and founder of her own plant based supplement range Bio Blends.

She is speaking throughout New Zealand about stress and being overwhelmed from August through October and has just released her new book The Invisible Load: a guide to overcoming stress and overwhelm.

For more details visit drlibby.com

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Always read the label.Use only as directed.If symptoms persist, consult

by Nature 11 your Healthy healthcare professional.

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Feature

Women’s wellness through the decades find out what’s in store across our lifetime and how to make the most of each decade with supplements and healthy living.

We speak to our CHS health store experts Bronwyn Lowe, Alena Winter, Linda Macnamara and Rachael Nielsen to

Of course each person’s journey is different, so adapt the knowledge to suit your own path.

-A multivitamin as a good ‘safety net’ to prevent deficiencies and promote optimum health and well-being.

-Helping the liver survive late nights and drinking by providing support with milk thistle, globe artichoke and dandelion root.

-Considering folate. If pregnancy is to occur this vitamin is essential for early brain development, even before the pregnancy is known.

Other supplement support includes: - Essential fatty acids like fish oil, hempseed oil, flaxseed oil and evening primrose oil.

E V E R Y B O DY - Roasted dandelion or burdock herbal tea as a substitute for coffee.

- He Shou Wu for its ability to support the adrenal glands, kidney yin, libido, and healthy joints.

O M E G A- 3 s

A good quality antioxidant is useful for anti-aging, as is staying hydrated, getting enough sleep and managing stress levels, recommends Rachael.

Garcinia may help with weight management, as it can manage appetite and cravings while encouraging a healthy metabolism. MACA can also aid with preparing for menopause.

The 50s can be a busy decade, with demanding work schedules, managing older children or empty nest syndrome, and assisting elderly parents.

Menopause symptoms may appear and it’s quite an individual experience, says Linda.

With supplements, what might work for one person may not necessarily be the best for another, so talk with your CHS expert.

Linda believes in the 80/20 rule: do the best you can for 80% of the time!

Eat nutritious food (preferably organic when you can) and don’t overeat. While all the natural health supplements in the world cannot counteract a bad diet, in times of stress, sleep deprivation, sport, pregnancy and other life events, they can assist in maintaining a good level of health.

lead to conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

For PMS, tiredness and general wellbeing support, Linda recommends spirulina powder for smoothies, probiotics, essential fatty acids, and a good multivitamin.

MACA may help balancing hormones, assist with energy levels and general well-being, suggests Rachael.

For women experiencing infertility, progesterone cream or drops can help with normalising ovulation.

It’s well known that women who have wellbalanced adrenal and nervous systems will have an easier time during perimenopause and menopause, says Bronwyn and Alena.

Supplement suggestions during this time are: -Ashwaganda, St John’s wort, tulsi, kava, lavender and motherwort for the nervous system.

-Black cohosh, ashwaganda, gingko, cranberry and ginseng for the changes in oestrogen levels, which can impact the health of the mucous membranes and skin.

-Hempseed oil, flaxseed and omega 3, fat soluble vitamins and vitamins A, D, and E for dry tissue and skin overall flexibility and brain function.

-Probiotics and digestive enzymes to support gut and brain function.

Rachael says vitamin K2 supplementation is helpful for bone density, and it also helps to clear arteries. Weight bearing exercise is also important to retain bone density.

In your 60s & beyond As many factors continue to affect our later decades, new challenges also appear such as adjusting to retirement, downsizing your home, becoming grandparents, and moving towns or country. Bronwyn and Alena suggest key areas to work on include keeping your body moving and maintaining cognitive, cardiovascular and digestive health.

Supplements that may assist are: -CoQ10, hawthorn for heart health, digestive enzymes and nutritional uptake.

-Magnesium for sleep, sore muscles and headaches.

Omega-120ct 20% OFF Normal Retail Price: $70.30 Promo Price: $56.25

-CoQ10, an antioxidant which can protect from the damaging effects of free radicals and supports healthy cardiovascular function and cell health.

-Gingko, bacopa, rosemary and ginseng to support the brain, memory and cognitive function.

-Essential fatty acids to help reduce inflammation and support brain health.

Continue to focus on what you eat by embracing mindful eating, having smaller meals that are easier to digest, and taking time to eat at the table.

Also, remember to drink water as dehydration can be a common issue.

Drop by your local CHS store to discuss your individual health requirements with one of our experts.

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NEEDS

In your 50s

In your 30s -Adaptogenic herbs to help with energy, The 30s can be a time of deepening relationships, developing careers, stress and coping abilities, including starting a family, and juggling lots of withania/ashwaganda, rhodiola, commitments. A multivitamin can cover and schisandra. all your nutritional bases, say Bronwyn -Enjoying herbal teas such as oatstraw and Alena, while other options include: and chamomile for stress and -B vitamins for energy and anxiety support. stress reduction.

Maintaining a healthy weight and -Magnesium for nervous system and body fitness through diet and exercise sleep support. is important too, as entering the next stages of life with excess weight and -Folate and/or a quality pre-conception a too-high body fat percentage can multivitamin if a family is on the radar.

Keep an eye on your B12 and iron levels, suggest Bronwyn and Alena.

- B vitamins.

In your 20s Travelling, studying and settling into new routines can bring less stability, and sometimes dietary choices may not be ideal. For these times, Bronwyn and Alena recommend:

In your 40s you may start to notice signs your body is not as strong as it used to be!

Sore joints and muscles, slower digestion, changes in menstrual cycle, and sleep issues may appear.

- Liver support with milk thistle, dandelion root.

As we move through our lives we change and evolve.

Solutions and remedies which met our health and well-being needs in our 20s and 30s may not be our best options later in life.

It’s essential to consistently examine how we’re addressing our health and evaluate if we’re taking the right approach.

In your 40s

Third-Party Tested Triglyceride Form Non-GMO Verified Sustainably Sourced Friend of the Sea Certified Always read the label and use as direct. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional. Natural Meds, Napier.

Inspirational people

“Once you have essential oils in your life, they become part of your daily routine.

They're like best friends you can't live without.”

Essential

to living well

Absolute Essential founder Dr Bo Hendgen has long been interested in the power of nature and has over 35 years experience to back it up.

Passions are often discovered, but sometimes they are innate.

The latter is true for Bo Hendgen, a doctor of osteopathy, naturopathy and aromatic medicine.

Born in Germany, Bo grew up in a small countryside village on a self-sufficient farm. She also spent a lot of time in France, around Provence and Alsace, where her extended family lived and made wine.

“With two French grandmothers passionate about herbs, they dragged me through the forest once I could walk,” she says. “I would harvest different mushrooms, berries and herbs, make cough syrup, cheese and chop firewood.

We produced most of the healthcare solutions for the family, which were completely natural.”

It was the norm for Bo to help others; there was never an “aha” moment.

“It was always clear that I would be working in the health sector,” she says.

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As a young adult, Bo went on to work as a lackey for a doctor of aromatic medicine in France, which at the time was an accepted form of treatment. “I assisted in making creams, blends, prescriptions for suppositories, pessaries, pills and powders, all containing high standard medicinal quality essential oils that I had collected from local farmers,” Bo explains. “When I arrived in New Zealand in 1985, I could not find any essential oils close to a French therapeutic standard.”

After reaching out to producers in Europe, Africa and India, Bo started importing medicinal grade oils to use in her clinic. Over time she began selling to other professionals and subsequently founded her retail range Absolute Essential in 1988.

The brand has now grown to become one of the only, certified organic company that sources sustainable, medicinal quality plant oils from over 50 artisan producers worldwide.

Aromatherapy isn’t a word Bo tends to use, as it’s often associated with the fragrance and flavour industry that overheats and exploits oils. “We use the words therapeutic plant oils because this is what they really are,” she says.

“It’s medicine you can apply directly to the brain.” By this she means that the tiny natural molecules that you smell and absorb via olfaction work on the part of the brain that meets the inner workings of the nose and can directly impact emotional, physical and mental processes or diffuse the oils for a reaction, unlike digesting a pill.

Each essential oil has a function that stems from its source. We know citronella keeps the bugs away and the scent of rose attracts bees, which go on to pollinate. “If we’re extracting [the plant hormones] gently enough, so that all the molecules are still active, they can act like this inside us too,” Bo explains.

“Our bodies think it’s a hormone, so therefore it responds to it.”

“Health is so essential that once compromised it has a measurable effect on everything else in life and we cannot buy it back.”

Essential oils have the ability to play a significant role in women’s health on several levels. “Women are overwhelmed with more responsibility than ever: working full time, carrying then bringing up children, running the home and, all the while, there's the pressure to look a million dollars,” Bo says. Feminine Balance Pure Blend is a popular choice among Absolute Essential customers for its hormone support. Another best seller is the Sweet Rose Pure Blend, bringing comfort and solace in times of stress.

For Bo, it’s all about integrating essential oils into daily life. When it comes to the home for example, take care of primary health as a family, rather than relying on antibiotics for common issues like coughs, colds and fevers.

Highly acclaimed for its production quality and sustainability practices, Absolute Essential has long been a pioneer in the industry.

The certified organic and vegan products are made in Muriwai, New Zealand from artisan ingredients sourced from around the world. From composting waste to using recycled packaging, the company’s ethos is a by-product of Bo’s staunch, eco-minded, organic health ethic.

“Good health starts with our DNA. So, parents, give your babies and children the best possible start with a healthy diet during pregnancy, then throughout childhood,” Bo says. “I think the earlier we make good choices, and consistently, it will pay dividends later in life.”

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ABSOLUT!E BONUS

There’s a balance to be mastered, but it should always tip in favour of healthy options. “My philosophy when it comes to health has always been holistic,” Bo says. “Everything in moderation.”

Bo describes her own regime as great 80 per cent of the time: she exercises five days a week, is pescatarian, enjoys being outdoors and meditates. But, like many of us, she also enjoys a glass of wine, a piece of cake and Italian food in good company. And that’s okay too.

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Ways to get your health back on track before spring

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THOMPSON’S HEMP SEED OIL Thompson’s Hemp Seed Oil is cold pressed and a great source of energy and vitality. Suitable for vegans & vegetarians, it also contains no added dairy or gluten and is GMO free.

GOOD HEALTH Magnesium Sleep Support with California Poppy Good Health Adrenal Balance

GOOD HEALTH Garcinia Cambogia 9000 PLUS with Green Tea or Apple Cider Vinegar

How to have a restful night’s sleep

How to gain back your energy with garcinia

Getting to sleep after a busy day can be a difficult task for many people. Being able to get enough quality sleep is part of supporting our emotional and physical vitality alongside our everyday health.

Good Health Garcinia Cambogia 9000 PLUS with Green Tea: A multi-action formula designed to help support energy, while managing appetite and a healthy metabolism (the rate at which you burn calories). The green tea extract supports energy levels, to help keep you active and encourages a healthy metabolism.

Containing vitamin B6, an important co-factor for adequate magnesium absorption in the body, Magnesium Sleep Support also has three easy-to-absorb forms of magnesium, citrate, chelate and marine. The natural combination of magnesium, alongside effective bedtime herbs such as California poppy, helps to ease a busy mind of stress and worry, encouraging a calm and restful night’s sleep.

1 cup Thompson’s Hemp Seed Oil 1.4 cup Balsamic Vinegar 1 clove of Garlic, finely diced 1 tsp fresh Thyme leaves, finely chopped 1 tsp fresh Oregano leaves, finely chopped Pinch of Sea Salt & Pepper Place the Thompson’s Hemp Seed Oil and all other ingredients together in a mason jar and shake vigorously. Store refrigerated for up to 1 week.

Shake and pour a little over your favourite salad or roast vegetables.

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CHS SPECIAL ADRENAL BALANCE ONLY $34.90*

Good Health Magnesium Sleep Support with California poppy supports a healthy sleep cycle by relaxing the body and mind while easing stress and tension. Not only does Magnesium Sleep Support help our energy levels and brain function, it supports our mood health too.

Hemp Seed Oil Balsamic Herb Vinaigrette

www.thompsons.co.nz

CHS SPECIAL GOOD HEALTH GARCINIA ONLY $27.90*

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Hemp Seed Oil is a plant-based source of Omega 3, 6 & 9 fatty acids, making it an ideal source of essential fatty acids for vegetarians and vegans. It also provides the optimal ratio of Omega 3 to Omega 6 (1:3). This versatile oil has a slightly nutty taste and works well as a drizzle for sweet and savoury dishes like salads and pasta, or can be added to smoothies. To retain its nutritional properties, Hemp Seed Oil is not suitable for heating and should be kept refrigerated after opening.

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take a Thompson’s The Natural Advantage

Natural support for stress levels and re-setting your adrenal health. The perils of our modern-day lifestyle Good Health Adrenal Balance provides natural support for burnouts and high stress levels by resetting your adrenal health with supportive herbs and nutrients that help balance adrenal hormonal production and support energy. Adrenal Balance contains herbs such as Siberian ginseng and ashwagandha to help replenish and nurture the adrenal glands. It also has holy basil and astragalus that act together to balance stress, and lemon balm and hops to nourish you while you sleep, gently relaxing the nervous system and promoting calmness.

Good Health Adrenal Balance contains two unique formulas (day and night) in one product.

• Supports thermogenesis, the amount of energy you use, to break food down for energy.

• Supports blood sugar balance to help manage cravings.

• Supports the release of serotonin in the brain to encourage better food choices.

Good Health Garcinia Cambogia 9000 PLUS with Apple Cider Vinegar is a systematic formula that supports weight management by supporting digestion, appetite levels, cravings and a healthy metabolism. This caffeine-free formula contains a concentrated powder form of apple cider vinegar, to encourage a healthy metabolism of fats.

• Digestive support – contains natural enzymes that help to break down the fats.

• Helps manage cravings and appetite.

• Caffeine-free formula, not over stimulating.

For more information on these products, visit your local Community Health Store. * Terms and conditions apply. While stocks last. Always read the label and use as directed.

If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional. Weight management products should be used in conjunction with a balanced diet and exercise. Good Health, Auckland. TAPS Approval No: PP4417

Healthy by Nature 17

Recipes

Reader Offer

Fruity chia pots

Serves 6

Serves 2

Ingredients ¼ cup capsicum (we like to use a mix of colours) ¼ cup red onion ¼ cup baby spinach leaves ¼ cup mushrooms ¼ cup cherry tomatoes 5 eggs salt and pepper

ONE MONTH FREE! If you want tips and advice on what you should be fueling your body with, or access to over 100 healthy recipes, workouts and more! Get a one month free Real Health NZ membership*.

Sign up at realhealthnz.co.nz and use promo code HealthybyNature6. *

Egg veggie muffins

Terms and conditions apply

Method: Preheat your oven to 180°C. Finely dice all veggies and add to the bottom of a muffin tray.

Crack eggs into a bowl, mix together and season with salt and pepper.

Pour the egg mixture over the veggies and pop into the oven for approximately 15 mins or until cooked right through. Delicious served warm.

Tip: Our veggies are just a guide; feel free to get creative and play around with your veggie combos.

Fresh herbs would also be a delicious addition.

Ingredients 2 cups almond milk 2 tsp Manuka honey 1 tsp 100% vanilla extract (optional) 1 tsp cinnamon 7 tbsp chia seeds Fresh fruit to top

Method: Add all ingredients into a bowl and mix well (no one likes a chunky chia pot). Pour into two jars and store in the fridge overnight to set.

Remove from the fridge and top with fresh fruit to serve.

Tip: Top with your favourite seasonal fruit. We love pomegranate seeds, mango, blueberries and strawberries.

For more recipes go to communityhealthstores.co.nz

On the go

Easy breakfast recipes for busy women.

Are you simply too busy to worry about making yourself a healthy breakfast? We understand it can be the last thing on your mind as you rush out the door in the morning. Real Health NZ have shared three on the go breakfast options that are easy to make, are healthy and nutritious.

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Cinnamon & apple overnight oats Serves 6 Ingredients 1 apple 1 cup oats 1 cup milk of your choice 1 tbsp 100% pure maple syrup or manuka honey 1 tsp cinnamon

Method: In a cup or jar, mix together the oats, milk, maple syrup and cinnamon until well combined.

Store in the fridge overnight.

When you're ready to eat, top with diced apple and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Healthy by Nature 19

A Healthy by Nature Promotion

Community News

EAR CANDLE PACKS A sustainable

community

Worried about your iron levels?

GETTING MORE IRON THROUGH SUPPLEMENTS

What are some illnesses or conditions that can arise if you have anaemia?

If the anaemia is severe there is a risk of angina (chest pain), headaches and leg pains. The body's ability to fight infection is also compromised, which is a big risk.

Rachael Nielsen at CHS store The Health Shop is passionate about helping people with their health and wellness, and understands the importance of getting enough iron in your diet, for all people both young and old.

Why is iron so important?

Iron is essential to health and transporting oxygen in the blood to all parts of the body.

Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional shortfalls. What are some of the first symptoms of anaemia?

• Tiredness.

• Pallor.

• Palpitations.

• Exercise intolerance.

• Changes in appetite.

• Learning disorders.

• Weakness.

• Skin and nail problems.

• Fatigue.

• Fast heart beat/palpitations.

• Breathlessness.

• Night cramps.

• Tinnitus.

• Cold sensitivity.

• Dizziness.

• Nausea.

• Chest and/or leg pain.

• Headaches.

Does anaemia affect older people more than younger people?

While younger people can be severely anaemic but not really have any symptoms, older people have fewer reserves in their muscles, brain and other organs, so they will feel the effects much more.

What can happen if you suffer from long-term anaemia?

Long-term anaemia, which is caused by iron deficiency, can lead to a range of health issues including: • A burning sensation in the tongue.

• An altered sense of touch.

• Dryness in the mouth and throat.

• Brittle hair.

• Difficulty in swallowing.

• Sores at the corners of the mouth.

Boomerang Bags Plum Organics in Papamoa has found going plastic bag free a relatively easy change. A few months ago, they we were approached by local non-profit community initiative, Boomerang Bags, to place a bag-share box outside the store. Boomerang Bags can be borrowed, reused, passed on or even brought back. All of the materials and fabric are donated and the bags are handmade by volunteers, keeping the initiative local and sustainable.

"Most customers will bring their own bag, or just carry their purchase," says Plum Organics Owner Linda. "Only occasionally will a customer ask for a bag, so we keep a few paper bags on hand, or they will grab a Boomerang Bag on the way out."

How can we get extra iron? What products are available?

Iron comes in many forms including tablets, capsules, cell salts, liquid and chewable tablets. Remember, not everyone needs extra iron, but if low iron levels have been diagnosed by a healthcare professional it’s important to take an iron supplement for up to three months after you've been diagnosed.

“It’s a start, but we had to start somewhere – and I'm proud of our community for their willingness to do their bit."

Come in for a chat with Rachael if you are worried about your iron levels* and would like advice on your health or supplements that could work for you.

Many of our stores are hugely supportive of Plastic Free July and have been active with this movement for many years.

A huge part of this is giving customers the choice to purchase plastic-free, eco-friendly products.

The Health Shop Shop 18, Centre City Shopping Centre, New Plymouth Phone 06 759 4342 Email healthshop36@xtra.co.nz or visit the healthshop.nz *If you are worried about your iron levels, always consult a healthcare professional.

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Our stores have been busy doing what they can to help make a difference and are proud to stock sustainable, ethically produced, qualified and natural products.

Supporting Plastic Free July

All of our stores have a very large range of eco-friendly products available from

natural deodorants to menstrual cups, natural perfumes, plastic-free sanitary products and bamboo toothbrushes.

Come in to your local store to find out more about what’s available.

Bring your own container The Herbal Dispensary in Raglan make it easy for people to bring their own containers. The containers are weighed first, then once filled are weighed again.

It’s great as customers can buy as little or as much as they like!

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The Herbal Dispensary also has a refill station in store for shampoo, conditioner, bodywash and household cleaning products. They also have a large bulk food section, including dry goods and products such as organic cider vinegar and organic olive oil.

Xtreme Zero Waste The Herbal Dispensary work closely with Xtreme Zero Waste in Raglan and recycle all their bottles, plastic containers, cardboard, papers, and soft plastics.

All of their food waste is collected by local pig farmers to help feed the animals and they actively encourage suppliers to reduce their plastic packaging too. They've also moved to compostable courier bags and paper wrap for wrapping website orders, so no more plastic bubble wrap!

Bronwyn from the Herbal Dispensary has also taken part on the very successful Plastic Bag Free Raglan steering committee for the last few years.

Precisely crafted in the USA from organic natural cotton and beeswax.

Environmentally sustainable and biodegradable.

No plastic or other foreign materials.

Packaging is conveniently reused as a shield when candling.

Available as a two pack for $24 or a four pack for only $44. Money back guarantee if not satisfied.

Exclusively available at Community Health Stores www.communityhealthstores.co.nz/stores

Meet the team

VITAL EVERYDAY YOUR SOLUTIONS TO DAILY HEALTH & VITALITY

Developed by naturopaths, the Vital range provides the perfect daily solutions for optimal health! Vital All-In-One is a 78 ingredient powder supplement which helps to give people everything they need nutritionally in a day. Vital Protein is an all natural plant protein which supports weight management. Taken everyday, the Vital range is a holistic solution to daily health and vitality, making you feel amazing from the inside out!

“Feel amazing from the inside out”

RESUPPLIED AD NOT IN FOLDER

A new Way of Life We chatted to Cees Hekelaar, owner of Way of Life in Pukekohe, to find out more about the team and why they love helping their customers with their individual health needs.

How long have you been in business?

I have been involved in natural health retail since April 1978, so for 41 years. The last 11 years I’ve been based in Pukekohe which has that lovely rural town, community feel but is only a short train or car ride to the CBD, so has all the cultural and other benefits a big city has to offer.

Tell us about being part of the Community Health Stores Group?

Before joining CHS in 2018 I was involved in a similar group of stores in Holland, experiencing first-hand the added value of working together in a larger retail group. The best thing is being able to share ideas and knowledge, which we can use to tailor our health advice to our customers’ needs.

What is the best thing about your job?

What gets you up in the morning?

It’s so rewarding when my customers come in happy and appreciative when their health has improved considerably.

You may think how after 41 years (a lifetime!) one can still be interested in the same job, but this industry has a continuous output of new research and knowledge, which keeps me ticking and wanting to help people.

Tell us about your team; why are they so special to you?

My team is wonderful. Everyone's heart is really in helping their customers and supporting our business. Each of them has that natural desire to help people and finding the best personalised advice to improve health and well-being based on years and years of experience and knowledge. They all have the same desire as me to absorb new knowledge.

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Why do customers keep coming back to your store?

People recognise that we love our job, that we know what we’re talking about, and that our focus is on their needs first.

We offer the best, honest advice, high-quality products and build long lasting relationships with our customers.

When they have a good experience, they come back but also tell their friends and family, which helps spread the good word!

Is there anything new at the store?

We’ve just opened a new herbal dispensary headed up by our instore naturopath and herbalist Nigel. As part of our service we have ACC registered Osteopaths, nutritionists, naturopath, herbalists, tui na massage therapists and an acupuncturist.

How does your store support your local community?

We are part of the local community and show our support to many worthwhile charities, schools and theatres including Pukekohe Hospice.

Are there any new or unique products that are rising in popularity in store?

Digestive enzymes and gut health products are gaining popularity with our customers. More and more people are realising that a healthy body starts in the gut.

Are there any products which remain popular, that work and have stood the test of time?

Unbelievably Rescue Remedy of Edward Bach’s flower remedies shows to work time after time. It has done since the 1930s when Dr Edward Bach started using it for his patients when in any form of sudden emotional distress or shock.

 VEGAN  GLUTEN FREE  DAIRY FREE

15% off

the VITAL range while stocks last

Vital All-In-One available in 120g, 300g, 600g & 1kg.

Vital Protein available in 500g & 1kg, ask instore for flavour options.

WWW.VITALEVERYDAY.COM

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OFF Your body is designed to move Joints are made up of many components, including muscles, tendons, ligaments and cartilage which need to be kept nourished and healthy.

Healthy joints and cartilage are what help us to keep moving more easily.

Solgar’s advanced, shellfish-free formulation provides the key raw materials for cartilage support including glucosamine hydrochloride, chondroitin sulphate and MSM.

Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist, please see your healthcare professional. Solgar NZ Ltd, Auckland. TAPS PP4502