Many people have thought about losing weight over the years, but often seem to fall short of an actual attempt to do it. The reason why so many people think about it so much is because deep down, they know that having that extra weight is not at all good for them. The problem is, just knowing that being overweight is bad is not enough to really push many people to do something about it. Much like wanting to quit smoking, knowing it is bad for you doesn't induce people to quit doing it. However, if you were to find some really good reasons to quit smoking, like your doctor told you if you don’t quit, you will lose a lung next year, that might make you act and just do it.
 
 Well, losing weight is just like quitting smoking, the more good reasons you have to do it, the more likely you are to act on it and make it happen. If you have something driving your motivation aside from just knowing it is bad for you, you are also more likely to maintain your weight loss goal once you reach it.
 
First and foremost, losing weight means getting healthier. When you lose those extra kilos you greatly reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes and joint stress, all conditions associated with being overweight.
 
When you reduce these risks, it means you can have a much better chance of being around to see your children grow up and being around to enjoy your grandchildren. That alone is reason enough to get that weight down.
 
Another reason you might want to consider losing weight is that you will feel better. As you begin to lose some of that extra weight, you will start to notice your energy levels increasing. Being overweight by 20 kilograms is like putting a 20 kilogram sack of potatoes on your shoulders all day. Extra body fat is nothing more than an extra burden to carry around with you every day, so the extra weight drains your energy.
 
For this reason, overweight people tend to be less active and this promotes more fat to collect up on them. As this continues, they become even less active and so this becomes a vicious cycle leading to obesity.
 
As a nice little side benefit, losing weight will make you look better, and who doesn’t want to look better?
 
Each and every one of us has a vision of what we want to look like. Most people are not completely satisfied with the way they look. They will always find something they don’t like about themselves and wish they could change and for people who are overweight; this can be a great motivator to lose weight. A recent study concluded that as early as age 5, girls who had higher body weights had lower self-esteem than girls with normal body weight.
 
When a person loses weight, what are almost always the responses of other people who know that person? You hear things like; you look good; you’ve lost some weight, haven’t you? And think about how you would feel when you’ve lost enough weight to be able to fit into that dress or that pair of skinny jeans.
 
Now keep in mind, looking better is a great reason to lose weight but it should not be the only one.
 
When you have at least a few good, valid reasons to want to lose weight, it will be a lot easier to motivate yourself to get started and stay with it. Let’s face it, your health, well- being and self-esteem are very good reasons to get rid of those extra pounds and keep them off for good.
 

​If I asked you to make a list of the top 10 healthy foods, I bet gelatin would not be one of them.

Gelatin is a great health food in its natural form, not the artificially, sugar packed like jelly.

Gelatin may keep osteoporosis at bay, heal your gut if you suffer from IBS (Irritable bowel syndrome), leaky gut or acid reflux, may help you sleep better among many other valuable health benefits.

Gelatin is the key ingredient in Jelly and other similar products. It is the ingredient that makes it wobbly.

Gelatin is derived from collagen, the most plentiful protein in humans and animals. Once simmered, the decomposition of collagen into gelatin is irreversible; its long protein fibrils, or tiny fibers, are broken down into small amino acid compounds.

Eating gelatin boosts our collagen levels. Collagen is found almost everywhere in the body, but it is most abundant in the skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. It holds our tissues together, providing the skeleton with a sturdy yet flexible structure (just as it does wobbly desserts); some types of collagen fibrils are gram for gram, stronger than steel. (1)

Although the gelatin we consume comes from collagen in animal skin, bones, ligaments, and tendons, it increases human collagen stores, which leads to the impressive health benefits below.

It’s Made Almost Entirely of Protein (98 to 99 Percent)

One half-cup of gelatin provides nearly two grams of protein a macronutrient, your body needs to function.

Gelatin Is Rich in Vital Amino Acids
​It doesn’t contain all the essential amino acids, making it an incomplete protein. But the amino acids it does include are particularly important for health, especially glycine. Other notables include: (2)

• Proline
• Glutamic acid
• Lysine

Our ancestors ate much more gelatin than we do today. That’s because they widely practiced nose-to-tail eating, meaning they cooked with and consumed the entire animal, including its skin, tendons, and other gelatinous features.

In the Cypriot diet we still have a dish called “Gelatina” which is mostly made of pig’s ears, hooves and is jam packed with gelatin.

It is still available in most supermarkets. I for one am not a fan of this and have invented a fruity, yogurt, chia pudding where I add gelatin in powder form to give it a firm texture rather than a runny one.

Six Reasons to Eat Gelatin.

1. Gelatin May Lower Your Risk for Cardiovascular and Other Diseases.

Eggs and muscle meats—as opposed to organ meats and meaty bones—are high an amino acid called  methionine.

In some people, eating too much methionine can lead to a buildup of a toxic compound called homocysteine in the blood.

High levels of homocysteine are an independent risk factor for a variety of serious concerns, from dementia and Alzheimer’s to heart disease and it also increases the risk of fracture.  (3, 4, 5) This might explain why researchers sometimes find a correlation between high meat intake and chronic disease.

What helps keep methionine and homocysteine levels in a healthy balance? Glycine, a compound found in gelatin and for which it accounts for roughly 27 percent of gelatin’s composition, making gelatin the richest food source of this amino acid. Although your body can make glycine, you usually don’t produce enough tocover your needs, meaning you need to obtain ample amounts from your diet. (6, 7)

2. It Protects Your Bones and Joints
​
Bone is living, growing tissue, comprising mostly of collagen which is the glue that holds our tissues together, hence getting more collagen in the form of gelatin is good for bone and joint health.

Research shows that gelatin may have a beneficial effect on cartilage metabolism and inhibit the breakdown of collagen in bone.

It may be effective in treating both osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. (8, 9, 10)

Its amino acids glycine and proline are anti-inflammatory and are likely responsible for research results finding gelatin effective in reducing arthritis-associated joint pain.

Lysine, also in gelatin, strengthens bones by helping the body absorb calcium and form collagen.

The body can’t make this amino acid, so it must come from diet. Lysine has also been shown, in animal studies, to quicken fracture healing. (11)

3. It Preserves Your Muscle Mass
Glycine is the hero again here: research has found that increasing glycine intake, either through supplementation or high-glycine foods such as gelatin, can help slow or reduce the age-related loss of muscle.

Supplemental glycine can protect muscle in a variety of wasting conditions brought on by serious illness such as cancer or due to reduced calorie intake. (12, 13)

4. Gelatin Is Good for Your Gut
Thanks to the amino acids glycine, proline, and glutamine, gelatin can improve gut integrity and digestive strength by enhancing gastric acid secretion and restoring a healthy lining in the stomach. (14, 15)

Gelatin also absorbs water and helps keep fluid in the digestive tract, promoting good intestinal transit and healthy bowel movements. (16)

5. It Makes Your Skin Shine and Your Hair Long and Lustrous

Collagen is one of the primary structural elements of skin. As we age, we naturally lose collagen, causing our skin to sag and wrinkle.

Gelatin provides glycine and proline, building blocks for collagen, and can help your body create enough of this important protein to improve your skin’s health and appearance. In particular, several studies have shown improved skin elasticity and hydration, as well as a reduction of deep wrinkles, with collagen hydrolysate supplementation. (17, 18)  

A diet rich in gelatin may also protect against the aging effects of sunlight, preventing wrinkles in the future. (19) And gelatin appears to induce hair growth and even lead to thicker, fuller locks. (20, 21)

6. It Can Help You Sleep

Gelatin has been found to help with sleep due to its abundance of glycine. Just a few tablespoons can provide roughly three grams of glycine, which is enough to cause measurable improvements in sleep quality. (22, 23)

Glycine is also an inhibitory neurotransmitter, meaning that it can decrease anxiety and promote mental calmness to let you sleep through the night. (24)

7. Other Benefits.

Research suggests that gelatin may also aid in weight loss, help control blood sugar, improve cognitive and mental health, slow the growth of certain cancers, and much more. (25, 26, 27, 28, 29)

Vegetarians…

While gelatin isn’t acceptable to vegans, who shun all animal products, it may be to vegetarians who are open to eating some animal-derived foods, such as eggs and dairy.

Vegetarians Often Have Low Glycine Levels

Some Paleo followers who eat mainly muscle meats and ignore the nose-to-tail philosophy can also be susceptible to low glycine intake.

You Might Be at Risk for Cardiovascular Problems

Studies have shown that vegetarians and vegans have significantly higher homocysteine levels, on average, than omnivores, putting them at significant risk for cardiovascular trouble. (30)

This is possibly due to nutrient deficiencies in vitamin B12 and choline, which help keep homocysteine in check.

How to Incorporate Gelatin into your diet ?

1. Eat more skin and gelatinous cuts of meat, especially those that are on the bone like shank pieces or ribs.
2. Make Your Own Bone Broth, not only does it supply gelatin it is also packed with minerals and nutrients, from calcium and iron to vitamins D, C, and B1 (thiamin).
3. Buy Gelatin Powder to add to food or create healthy gelatinous desserts.
4. Supplement:

• Hydrolyzed means the protein is broken into individual amino acids, making them easier to absorb. Use this type to improve skin and joint health or get better sleep. Can be mixed into any type of liquid, including cold liquids, so it can be added to smoothies or juices. It is also great as a real-food protein powder.
• Whole-protein gelatin is better for improving gut health. It helps carry fluid through the intestines and can even coat the lining of the digestive tract as a soothing and protective layer. This is the type used to make gummy snacks and desserts and must be mixed into warm liquids.
• Fish gelatin is available if you prefer not to consume land animals.

An important note: Some people report a histamine reaction after consuming gelatin or gelatin powders and supplements, so gelatin may not be appropriate for those with severe histamine intolerances.

The brain’s feel good chemical is called dopamine, which sends feelings of well-being and pleasure into your body.
Apart from dopamine making you feel good, it helps with weight control, energy levels and it also supports brain and heart health. Without it, we would feel unhappy, tired and perhaps overweight.

The good news is that you can increase dopamine levels just by eating certain foods. The right amount of dopamine could uplift you from mild depression, help you lose weight, and make you feel more alive ! 

Dopamine is made from tyrosine one of the protein building amino acids, hence eating foods rich in tyrosine will help to boost dopamine production.

These foods are:

• Sardines -  or any other oily fish. Evidence suggest Omega 3 fats may be linked to dopamine production

• Eggs – always try and eat organic, free range or even better home produced eggs.

• Spirulina – which is a water algae – I like to see myself as a spirulina connoisseur ! I only consume premium spirulina and make sure that it is grown in Hawaii. The reason being that Hawaiian Spirulina is the only spirulina cultivated in a Biosecure Zone and is certified free of pesticides, herbicides and industrial pollutants. That is one of the reasons that makes Hawaiian Spirulina so special and the other reason being that it contains high levels of antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins, and minerals.

• Beetroots  – Contain betaine, acting as an antidepressant, and tyrosine.

• Apples – Contain quercetin, to prevent neurodegeneration and boost dopamine.

• Spinach – Rich in folate, to trigger dopamine production.

• Bananas –are a happy fruit. They have tryptophan, which gets converted into serotonin in the body which is known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier. Don’t forget that they also have tyrosine which boosts dopamine – hence you get a double dose of banana happiness ! When I’m feeling down I tend to go on a banana binge and by the forth banana I am starting to feel brighter ! Oh and I am talking about the small Cyprus bananas not the large South American ones.

• Strawberries and blueberries – not only have tyrosine, they are anti-inflammatory and are high in anti-oxidants which help combat anxiety and depression.

• Green tea – Contains polyphenols, which are good for brain and heart function, as well as dopamine production.

• Herbs – like ashwagandha, tulsi,  ginkgo biloba, nettles, dandelion, and ginseng all make you feel good !

 
Exercise is a brilliant way to increase dopamine levels to flood your brain with this feel-good chemical. When you exercise, the cells in your brain (and the rest of your body) start firing, becoming more energized.

You also produce more serotonin and dopamine—both crucial in mood elevation. Some credit these chemicals with what’s known as the “runner’s high”, common in endurance athletes. What we do know for sure is that they make you feel good, filling you up with a sense of wellbeing and happiness, increasing your overall physical health.

The best way to a natural happy high would be to exercise, eat tyrosine rich foods and add in a supplement such as ginko biloba, drink nettle or tulsi tea.

It would also be wise to avoid alcohol and sugary foods as these are mood dampeners.  

All in all it can be said that through a healthy, whole foods diet and regular exercise, you can boost your mood and attain a sense of overall wellness, smiles and laughs !

Modern living can make us feel overwhelmed, alone, anxious and stressed. We have had to cope with a pandemic and now with a war which again may make us feel insecure and concerned with regards to the future.

Though if these feelings become too overwhelming, it's important to seek professional help. Having said that and gotten that out the way, there are certain natural substances that can help to relieve and reduce feelings of stress and boost your mood. 

1) The Basil Family

Basil is a natural immune system booster, but it is also very high in a number of nutrients that can help with performance, cognitive function, and anxiety. Basil is an antimicrobial and in research studies has shown broad spectrum antiviral activity. It is also rich in a type of antioxidant called flavonoids. Flavonoids have demonstrated the ability to improve mood within two hours of eating them!

Incorporate basil into your daily regime by preparing your own pesto, chopping up and adding some fresh basil to a salad, drinking it as a tea or making a delicious Italian sauce with garlic, basil and tomato ! You can even grow basil in your own home, if you have a sunny window sill and the time to water it on the regular.
  
2) Chamomile

Chamomile contains flavonoids and sesquiterpenes which exert a sedative effect on the body. According to Medical News Today, it's been tested as a long term treatment for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and proved to help mitigate symptoms. It’s a wonderful tea to have to calm down before bedtime.

3) Nutmeg

Nutmeg has been used to treat anxiety and depression for years. It has also been shown to spice up your love life by increasing libido and sexual performance.. In addition to its sexy side, nutmeg is an antioxidant, has anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anti-thrombotic, analgesic and antidepressant qualities. This spice can be sprinkled on oatmeal, fruit, added to smoothies, cookies and healthy cakes.

4) Turmeric

Turmeric is an easy, all-natural spice to incorporate into your cooking, and it has anti-inflammatory properties that apparently reduce feelings of stress and sadness. In research turmeric was found in research to be useful in treating depression, helping to optimize serotonin and dopamine, while reducing the stress hormone, cortisol.

Indian cuisine makes beautiful use of this root in powdered form for curries. I like to add it to everything I cook.

If you haven't already tried making a turmeric "golden milk" latte, it's tasty, will boost your digestion, and may help you relax, too.

5) Lavender

Which is incredible at helping to calm your nerves and reduce stress. You can brew tea using fresh lavender, or use lavender as an essential oil.

When inhaled as an essential oil, it decreases anxiety, depression and improves mood.

There are some products on the market that combine lavender with CBD for extra relaxation. A CBD balm infused with essential oils like lavender and calendula is a necessity in my bedtime routine. I’ll rub a little of it on my wrists just before I go to sleep. 

Hunger is your body’s natural cue that it needs more food.

While feeling hungry is a normal sign from your body that it’s time to eat again, it’s not fun to constantly feel hungry, especially if you’ve just finished a meal.

That may be a sign you’re not eating enough or not eating the right combinations of foods.

When you’re hungry, your stomach may “growl” and feel empty, or you may get a headache, feel irritable, or be unable to concentrate.

There are several possible explanations for why you may constantly want to eat. It could be that your diet lacks protein, fat, or fiber, as well as excessive stress or dehydration.

Feeling constantly hungry is a common issue that may have to do with your food choices. A good place to start is understanding how different foods impact your feelings of fullness.

In this article, we give a list of evidence-based methods that a person can use to suppress their appetite:  

1. You’re not eating enough protein
It is important to consume enough protein when it comes to appetite control. 

Protein has hunger-reducing properties that may help you automatically consume fewer calories during the day. Protein works wonders by  increasing the production of hormones that signal fullness and reducing the levels of hormones that stimulate hunger. 

If you are a late-night snacker then this study will be of interest. Fourteen overweight men who consumed 25% of their calories from protein for 12 weeks experienced a 50% reduction in their desire for late-night snacking, compared with a group that consumed less protein.

In addition, those with a higher protein intake reported greater fullness throughout the day and fewer obsessive thoughts about food. 

There are animal and plant based foods that are high in protein. 

Animal sources of protein are: meat, poultry, fish, and eggs.

Plant-based  sources of protein can be found in dairy or goat’s sheep’s products such as milk, cheese, yogurt, kefir, pulses (beans, lentils), nuts, seeds, whole grains, tofu, tempeh and seitan. 
 
2. You’re not sleeping enough
Adequate sleep helps with hormonal balance. That keeps your heart healthy, reduces stress, and helps keep blood sugar consistent.

It also reduces stress, prevents inflammation, and helps control weight.

Research suggests that people who sleep less are more likely to be overweight or obese.

Poor sleep appears to disrupt the balance of ghrelin (hunger stimulating hormone) and leptin (hunger suppression hormone). These  are hormones that control appetite.

If you want to lose or maintain weight, don't forget that good sleep is part of the equation. To keep your hunger levels well managed, it’s generally recommended to get at least 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night.

3. You’re eating too many refined carbs
White flour and the products made with it, is one of the most common sources of refined carbohydrates.

Refined carbs are products like bread, pasta, sweets, pastries, cookies, cakes and other baked goods. Most of these processed foods are made with refined, processed sugars as well. 

These types of refined products lack fibre, and do not promote significant feelings of satiation. (Research Study)

Refined carbs digest quickly, lead to spikes in glucose levels, and consequently can leave you tired, and hungry. "That's why a bowl of oatmeal [which is rich in fibre] will probably hold you over to your next meal longer than a bowl of Rice Krispies [which is a refined carb], even if the calories are the same. 

To reduce your refined carb intake, simply replace them with nutrient-rich, whole foods like vegetables, fruit, legumes, and whole grains.

These foods are still high in carbs, but they are rich in fiber, which helps keep hunger well managed (Research Study)

4. Your diet is low in fat
Fat plays a key role in keeping you full. One of the main reasons is that it takes longer for you to digest it and it remains in your stomach for a longer period of time. Eating healthy sources of fat may lead to the release of various fullness-promoting hormones (Research Study)

One study including 270 adults with obesity found that those who followed a low fat diet had significant increases in cravings for carbs and preferences for high-sugar foods, compared with a group that consumed a low carb diet (Research Study)

Furthermore, those in the low fat group reported more feelings of hunger than the group that followed a low carb eating pattern (Research Study)

Healthy sources of high fat foods are:  coconut oil, fatty fish like wild-caught salmon, tuna, sardines, walnuts, nuts and seeds, avocados, olive oil, eggs and full fat yogurt. 

5. You’re not drinking enough water
Proper hydration is incredibly important for your overall health.

Drinking enough water keeps your brain and heart healthy, optimising exercise performance, keeps your skin healthy and combats constipation. 

Water is also quite filling and has the potential to reduce appetite when consumed before meals (Research Study).

One study found that drinking 2 cups of water before a meal, ate almost 600 fewer calories than those who didn’t drink any water.

Feelings of thirst can be mistaken for feelings of hunger. If you’re always hungry, it may help to drink a glass or two of water to find out if you’re just thirsty (Research Study)

6. Your diet lacks fiber
Consuming lots of high fiber foods helps keep hunger well managed. High fiber foods slow your stomach’s emptying rate and take longer to digest than low fiber foods (Research Study)

Additionally, a high fiber intake influences the release of appetite-reducing hormones and the production of short-chain fatty acids, which have been shown to have fullness-promoting effects (Research Study)

Studies have found that soluble fiber, or fiber that dissolves in water, is more filling than insoluble fiber (Research Study)

Many different foods, such as oatmeal, flaxseeds, sweet potatoes, oranges, and Brussels sprouts, are excellent sources of soluble fiber.

Not only does a high fiber diet help reduce hunger, but it’s also associated with several other health benefits, such as a reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity (Research Study)

Women should try to eat at least 21 to 25 grams of fiber a day, while men should aim for 30 to 38 grams a day.

Note that The Hadza, a hunter-gatherer group in northeast Tanzania for example, typically take in approximately 100 grams of fiber per day, about five times more than an American adult usually gets.

Fiber contributes to strong microbiome health, helps us avoid blood sugar spikes and makes us feel full on fewer calories.

7. You eat while you’re distracted
If you live a busy lifestyle, you may often eat while you are distracted.

Several studies have shown that those who engage in distracted eating are hungrier than those who avoid distractions during mealtimes (Research Study)

In one study, 88 women were instructed to eat either while distracted or sitting in silence. Those who were distracted were less full and had a significantly greater desire to eat more throughout the day, compared with the non-distracted eaters (Research Study)

To avoid distracted eating, you can try practicing mindfulness, minimizing screen time, and silencing your electronic devices. This will allow you to sit down and taste your food, helping you better recognize your body’s fullness signals.

8. You exercise a lot
You can prevent excessive hunger from exercise simply by eating more to fuel your workouts. It is most helpful to increase your intake of filling foods that are high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats.

Another solution is to cut back on the time you spend exercising or reduce the intensity of your workouts.

It’s important to note that this mostly applies to those who are avid athletes and work out frequently at a high intensity or for long periods.

If you exercise moderately, you probably don’t need to increase your calorie intake.

9. You’re drinking too much alcohol
Alcohol is well known for its appetite-stimulating effects (Research Study)

One study showed that alcohol inhibits the hormone leptin which reduces appetite, hence explaining why you may feel hungrier if you drink too much alcohol (Research Study)

Other studies have shown that you may end up eating 300 more calories even if you only drink 40ml of alcohol. With 10ml there was no influence to eating more. 

Drinking alcohol also influences your appetite for the day after by eating 10% more calories throughout the entire day, and more likely to consume large amounts of high fat and salty foods - most probably to help with a hangover ! 

To reduce the hunger-inducing effects of alcohol, it’s best to consume it moderately or avoid it completely (Research Study).

10. You drink your calories
If you consume a lot of liquid foods, such as smoothies, meal replacement shakes, and soups, you may be hungrier more often than you would be if you ate more solid foods.

One major reason for this is that liquids pass through your stomach more quickly than solid foods do and your brain hasn’t had enough time to process signals of fullness. 

In addition liquid foods don’t trigger the appetite suppressing hormones compared to solid foods.

I am a huge smoothie fan as I believe you can get a lot of nutrient dense foods in one meal. One solution I have found for this issue is by adding high fibre foods to my smoothies like chickpeas, baby spinach leaves and raw carrots. 

In general, to prevent frequent hunger, it may help to focus on incorporating more solid, whole foods into your diet or add more fibre rich foods to your shakes and soups. 
​
11. You’re overly stressed
Excess stress is known to increase appetite. 

The main reason for this are the effects of cortisol,  the stress hormone. This hormone has been shown to promote hunger and food cravings. 

For this reason, you might find that you are always hungry if you experience frequent stress. 
 
In one study, 59 women who were exposed to stress consumed more calories throughout the day and ate significantly sweeter foods than women who were not stressed (Research Study)

There are many de-stressing techniques that can help you feel calm and at peace. Some common ones include exercise and deep breathing, Tai Chi, Yoga and Journaling. 

12. You’re taking certain medications
Several medications may increase your appetite as a side effect.

The most common appetite-inducing medications include antipsychotics, anti-depressants, corticosteroids and anti-seizure drugs.  (Research Study)

If you suspect that medications are the cause of your frequent hunger, it may help to talk with your doctor about other treatment options.

There may be alternative medications that don’t make you hungry.

13. You eat too fast
Several studies have shown that fast eaters have greater appetites and a tendency to overeat at meals, compared with slow eaters.

They are also more likely to have obesity or excess weight.

Eating slowly gives you more time to chew your food better, and gives your body and brain more time to release anti-hunger hormones and convey fullness signals (Research Study)

14. You have a medical condition
Frequent hunger may be a symptom of disease. Common diseases are diabetes and hyperthyroidism.  

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar levels, may also increase your hunger levels. Your blood sugar levels may fall if you haven’t eaten for a while, an effect that may be exacerbated by a diet high in refined carbs and sugar (Research Study).

Other conditions such as depression, anxiety and premenstrual syndrome also happen to increase your appetite and cause over-eating as mentioned in this study. 

It is important to talk to your doctor to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment options.

In conclusion 
Excessive hunger is a sign that your body needs more food.

It’s often a result of imbalanced hunger hormones, which may occur for a variety of reasons, including inadequate diet and certain lifestyle habits.

Did you know that experts predict that the CBD industry will reach more than $108 billion by 2027.
 
In this market, you’ll find CBD gummies, oils, vapes, skin care, balms, and even CBD- infused candles ! 
 
However, the reasons for using CBD varies between people.
 
Some use it to aid self-care, relaxation, anxiety and pain relief.
 
Others may incorporate CBD into their routine to enhance concentration and focus.
 
Now more than ever, many individuals are turning to plants and natural healing to benefit their wellbeing, and the same goes for people going through menopause.
 
What is CBD?
 
CBD (cannabidiol) is one of over a hundred compounds found in hemp – a variation of cannabis.
 
Hemp plants are ideal for extracting CBD because of their high concentration; however, it also comprises a low concentration of the intoxicating compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
 
For example, in the UK, CBD products must contain less than 0.2% THC to be considered legal.
 
There are three types of CBD oil, including:

• Full-Spectrum CBD Oil: This CBD extract utilises the entire spectrum of the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC. Fortunately, trace amounts of this compound will not cause a “high”. Full-spectrum CBD also contains other substances such as CBG, terpenes and flavonoids, which may contribute to the entourage effect.

 

• Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil: Unlike full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum oil uses most of the plant, except THC. For experts to remove all THC, some say this extract isn’t as potent and may not contain the additional compounds.

 

• CBD Isolate: When the manufacturer extracts CBD from the other components of hemp, it creates an isolated extract. This is cannabidiol in its purest form. Therefore, such products are ideal for athletes who need extra precautions when shopping for CBD products.

 
Is CBD Intoxicating?
 
As CBD originates from cannabis, it may carry many misconceptions. Unlike its chemical cousin, THC, CBD is a non-intoxicating compound.
 
Cannabidiol has non-euphoric effects and elicits a calming response in people who use it. 
 
However, CBD will not cause a “high” as long as the THC contents are minimal and follow the country’s regulations. 
 
Reliable brands will third-party test their products and make the relative lab reports available to view.
 
If someone is apprehensive about trying cannabidiol, broad-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate shouldn’t contain any THC and may make a good starting place.
 
 
What Symptoms are Associated with Menopause?
 
Menopause is an entirely natural part of the ageing process that occurs when women stop having periods and are typically no longer able to have children.
 
Women tend to experience menopause between the ages of 45 and 55 years old, as oestrogens levels begin to decline.
 
As stated by the National Health Service (NHS), the symptoms of menopause may include:

• Night sweats;
• Vaginal dryness;
• Sleep issues;
• Lowered sex drive;
• Mood swings, depression 
• Difficulty concentrating.

Symptoms associated with menopause may start months before a woman’s period stops, and they may last four years after the last period. In some cases, menopause symptoms may last longer.
 
There are methods in place to manage the symptoms, including hormone replacement therapy, creams, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and lifestyle changes. 
 
However, for many women, menopause can create stress and discomfort.
 
It may be a frustrating journey, and many find it challenging to manage the changes that come with it.
 
 
Why Do Some Women Use CBD on Their Menopause Journey?
 
When CBD came onto the market, many women started using it to supplement their lifestyle and the changes they experienced.
 
Some women add CBD to their daily rituals to promote better rest, concentration and address mood changes.
 
According to researchers, CBD may interact with a cell-signaling system called the endocannabinoid system — or ECS for short. 
 
This system seems to play a role in homeostasis, which is the body’s natural balanced state. That said, the system may influence digestion, fertility, discomfort, rest, the immune system and the central nervous system.
 
With this in mind, women going through menopause are experimenting with CBD to promote overall contentment and wellbeing.
 
 
How to Use CBD for Menopause Symptoms?
 
If you’re new to CBD, it may feel daunting trying to understand and use it.
 
Fortunately, the industry is catered to everyone, and thus, CBD comes in many forms.
 
However, there are still a couple of things to consider before buying the first hemp product you find.
 
 
Daily Use
 
Like any other wellness supplement, experts say taking CBD every day will promote the best results. 
As CBD may interact with the ECS, some researchers believe it helps holistically boost wellbeing.
 
Supplementing this system daily may work better for long term management.
 
 
Finding the Right CBD for You
 
CBD comes in many shapes and sizes, so finding the right product for you is essential.
 
In case you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s easy to consume every day, there’s delicious CBD gummies which come in many flavours and vegan options. 
 
If gummies aren’t for you, then CBD capsules are a discreet method for taking cannabidiol on the go.
 
Whether you’re at the office or relaxing at home, a capsule is easy to swallow.
 
Another alternative is CBD oil which you can just squirt a few drops under your tongue, in a hot cup of coffee or a herbal tea. 
 
Choosing the right CBD for you is also about finding a trusted supplier who grows organic, natural extracts.
 
A transparent brand will share if their hemp is pesticide and herbicide-free, but it is equally important to choose a company that provides lab reports.
 
When CBD is third-party tested, you can ensure that the product fits the country’s THC regulations.
 
 
In Conclusion
 
CBD has truly made a mark on industries worldwide as a way to enhance your relaxation and invite peace and calm into your life. 
 
While many people are turning to natural remedies to soothe the symptoms of menopause, it’s best to consult a doctor about the best ways to manage your symptoms and discuss all your options.  

Over 1 billion people all over the world,  drink coffee daily ! 
 
A number of studies have been done touting the benefits of drinking coffee and how it can benefit your heart. 
 

​On the other hand, drinking  too much coffee can actually increase your risk of heart disease. 
 
Researchers explored the health and self-reported drinking habits of more than 360,000 participants from the UK Biobank database, working to learn how coffee intake may affect a person’s plasma lipid profile.
 
Overall, the team found that heavy coffee consumption which means drinking at least six cups per day—is associated with increasing the amount of lipids in the blood, leading to a greater risk of cardiovascular disease.
 
These same researchers also discovered that with each additional cup of coffee, lipid levels were pushed even higher. 
 
There’s certainly a lot of scientific debate about the pros and cons of coffee, but while it may seem like we’re going over old ground, it’s essential to fully understand how one of the world’s most widely consumed drinks can impact our health.
 
Drinking a moderate amount of coffee may reduce the risk of heart disease, however, drinking large amounts of coffee, that means more than 750ml or more per day of coffee which is not paper-filtered may increase "bad" cholesterol levels.
 
In another study researching the relationship between coffee consumption and cardiovascular disease - they found that drinking three and a half cups of coffee (caffeinated or decaffeinated) per day was associated with a 15% decreased risk of cardiovascular disease compared to drinking no coffee. 
 
The Italians have their own study which shows that drinking half a cup of espresso per day reduces your risk of death from heart disease by 37% and 28% reduced risk of death from all causes, compared to no or little coffee consumption. 
 
For the hard core coffee drinkers - unfortunately drinking more than 4 ounces or 120ml of espresso per day did not give you that extra edge of further reducing the risk of dying from heart disease or any other disease for that matter. 
 
The Swede’s found out that if you have already had a heart attack, it is best to drink 2 cups  of caffeinated coffee per day and you give yourself a 40% less chance of dying from cardiovascular disease. 
 
​Unfiltered coffee has been shown to increase cholesterol. You would have to drink more than 6 - 125ml cups per day to increase your total cholesterol by 20 mg/dl out of which the 16 is LDL the bad cholesterol and that triglycerides were also raised.
 
On the other hand, drinking only 1 to 3 small cups of coffee per day was not associated with an increase in triglycerides or the "bad" LDL cholesterol levels and was linked with only a modest 4 mg/dL increase in total cholesterol. Bear in mind that most coffee mugs hold between 325 to 475ml of coffee, with some holding up to 590 ml .
  
Now let’s get to the types of coffee… Unfiltered coffee seems to be worse for your heart compared to filtered coffee. 
 
Unfiltered coffee contains cafestol and kahweol, two cholesterol-raising chemicals found in coffee beans, while coffee filtered through a paper filter (including disposable K-Cups) contains only very small amounts of these constituents. 
 
Due to its cafestol and kahweol content, unfiltered coffee — including French press coffee, Turkish or Cyprus coffee, espresso, mocha, moka pot coffee, or coffee prepared using a metal strainer rather than a paper filter — may increase cholesterol or triglyceride levels. 
 
It is unlikely that the use of coffee additives (i.e., milk, creamer or sugar) is responsible for this association, as most of the reviewed studies controlled additive use.
 
There is also evidence that if you stop drinking coffee it helps to reduce your cholesterol levels. 
 
Now what if we have a cup of coffee and a cigarette ? A Greek study showed that coffee together with smoking increases arterial stiffness, which again is not a good thing as it leads to heart disease.
 
So, if we were to sum it up. Coffee in moderation of up to 3 cups providing not more than 400mg of caffeine per day is quite safe and beneficial for your heart, brain, physical performance, mental focus and weight loss. 
 
If you’re pregnant don’t have more than 200mg of caffeine per day or avoid it totally.
 
And be aware that consumption of large amounts of caffeine as supplements or energy drinks carry their own risks - possibly because of the rapid ingestion of caffeine. 

If you love candles as much as I do, then you’ll enjoy this blog post. From easing your stress to improving your memory, burning a candle in your living or work space can have many benefits.
 
In the past a candle was a source of light, today a candle represents so much more.
 


​It represents celebration, romance, meditation, and improves our mood and wellbeing.  
 
A candle can instantly lift up any space by adding not just a beautiful fragrance, but also creates a soothing, calming environment. 
 
The flicker of candlelight produces a lovely ambiance that simply cannot be replicated.
 
Lighting a few well-placed candles in your home can really create a cosy and intimate atmosphere.
 
Adding a candle here-and-there will create softness in your room and instantly make it feel warm and welcoming.
 
Candles are known for their soothing, healing properties and are often used by therapists, such as massage therapists, to create a peaceful ambiance in their therapy rooms. 
 
The sheer act of lighting a candle, its lovely flicker and the gentle glow it creates, helps ease and soothe the mind.
 
Give it a try the next time you have a stressful day: light a candle, watch the flame and just breathe for a few minutes - even just 60 seconds can make a big difference.
 
Did you know that our sense of smell plays a key role when it comes to our psychological health?
 
That's one reason why scented candles have become so popular lately. 
 
Lighting a candle in any corner of your home or office can bring you numerous health benefits. 
 
On days that you are feeling a little low, burning a candle in your room can improve your mood.
 
The soothing fragrance of the candle works like an antidepressant.
 
The scent improves your mood, regulates your hormone levels, and also boosts your immunity. 
 
You can pick citrus fragrances like lemon that are believed to improve mood. 
Some scents are especially soothing. There are many calming scents that you can choose from such as:  

• Lavender
• Rose
• Vetiver
• Bergamot
• Roman chamomile
• Neroli
• Frankincense
• Sandalwood
• Ylang Ylang
• Orange or orange blossom
• Geranium

 
Using scents to treat your mood is called aromatherapy. Several studies show that aromatherapy can certainly decrease your anxiety and improve your sleep.
 
Candles are a simple and stylish way that can help to improve your everyday quality of life. 
 
Add them to any room in your house. The use of subtle colours add a soft touch to any space; or go with bright, bold colours to really make an impact. 
 
They can also be very versatile, and come in a variety of styles and look wonderful in any room.
 
Bathroom candles provide a spa-like retreat, strategically placed candles throughout your living room make it cosy and calm, candles at the centerpiece of your dining room table keep romantic candlelit dinners within arms reach, and kitchen candles spark the atmosphere where we gather most often and can kill odours. 
 
Use candles outdoors on your veranda or in your garden to create a magical, whimsical escape; and don’t forget to burn citronella candles to keep insects away. 
 
Lighting a candle is an easy way to just take a couple of minutes from your hectic work or family schedule. You could light one in your bedroom, office and bathroom. Spend some time breathing in beautiful fragrances, and relax for that moment - recharging yourself for the rest of the day...
 
Mentioning hectic, office and work... did you know that lighting a candle can actually make you more productive by helping you achieve more focus. 
 
Candles can also assist in improving your meditation or prayer practices. If you do practice meditation or prayer then lighting a candle in that particular room will help you to connect more deeply with your soul or to a higher power. 
 
How about a little celebration and romance, grab your partner, light some candles and the rest I leave to your imagination ! 
 
 When choosing candles, make sure they are made with real essential oils and soy wax which are soot free, non-toxic, burn clean, and last much longer than traditional paraffin ones which produce black soot and release toxic carcinogens into the air. 
 
Whether you are treating yourself or friends, candles make perfect gifts and a nice treat to yourself!