NutraChamps Blog

Tag: beauty

Nature’s Gift to Skincare: Exploring 5 Exceptional Herbs
In the realm of natural skincare, the power of herbs has been recognized and revered for centuries. With the advancement of science and a deeper understanding of herbal properties, we’re now able to harness these natural wonders more effectively. They have come up as a nature’s gift for mankind for their health and wellness. Let’s explore five such herbs that are revolutionising skincare routines.
1. Aloe Vera: The All-Rounder Herb
- Moisturizing and Healing: Aloe vera is a staple in skincare for its moisturizing and skin-healing properties, ideal for sunburns and skin irritation.
- Anti-Aging: Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, aloe vera can help in reducing visible signs of aging.
2. Chamomile: Soothing and Healing
- Anti-Inflammatory: Chamomile is renowned for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it excellent for sensitive and irritated skin.
- Natural Healer: Its natural healing properties can help with skin conditions like eczema and rosacea.
3. Lavender: Calmness for Skin
- Balancing and Calming: Lavender not only calms the mind but also helps in balancing the skin’s natural oil production.
- Antibacterial: Its antibacterial nature makes it a great natural option for preventing and healing acne.
4. CBD

CBD, extracted from hemp plants, has become a popular natural remedy. Its versatility allows it to be used in various forms, such as oils, capsules, and topical creams. Here are some ways to incorporate CBD into your self-care routine. CBD has been studied for its potential in reducing anxiety, managing pain, and improving sleep quality. It has recently gained prominence for its potential health benefits without the psychoactive effects commonly associated with marijuana. You can check out here for more information https://cbdfx.com/.

5. Green Tea: The Antioxidant Powerhouse
- Rich in Antioxidants: Green tea is packed with antioxidants that help in protecting the skin from environmental damage.
- Oil Control: Its ability to reduce sebum production makes it a great addition for those with oily skin.
Incorporating These Herbs into Skincare

Creating a Balanced Regimen
- Product Choice: Look for skincare products that incorporate these herbs in their formulations.
- DIY Approaches: For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, creating DIY masks and infusions with these herbs can be an effective way to harness their benefits.
Understanding Skin Types
- Customization: It’s important to choose herbs that align with your specific skin type and concerns. For instance, CBD and green tea might be more suited for oily, acne-prone skin, while chamomile and lavender are great for sensitive skin.
Incorporating Herbs into Your Self-Care Routine
- Herbal Teas: A simple and enjoyable way to incorporate herbs into your daily routine is through herbal teas. Whether it’s a cup of chamomile tea before bed or a refreshing peppermint brew, herbal teas can be both therapeutic and relaxing.
- Aromatherapy with Essential Oils: The use of essential oils in aromatherapy can have a profound effect on your mental state. For instance, lavender oil can be used in a diffuser to create a calming environment, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.
- Herbal Baths: Adding herbs or their essential oils to your bathwater can create a spa-like, rejuvenating experience. A lavender bath, for example, can be soothing for both the mind and body.
- Cooking with Herbs: Incorporating herbs like ginger, turmeric, and garlic into your cooking not only enhances flavor but also provides health benefits, from anti-inflammatory properties to boosting the immune system.
- Herbal Supplements: For more concentrated benefits, herbal supplements can be a convenient option. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.
Creating a Personalized Herbal Self-Care Plan

The key to a successful self-care plan is personalization. What works for one person may not work for another. Start by identifying your specific needs – do you need help with relaxation, sleep, digestion, or perhaps immune support? Once you have identified your needs, you can select herbs that best meet those requirements.

Conclusion

The world of herbal skincare is rich and diverse, offering a plethora of benefits for skin health. From the antioxidant properties of CBD to the soothing effects of chamomile and lavender, these herbs can play a significant role in enhancing skin health naturally.

As with any skincare ingredient, it’s crucial to understand your skin’s needs and seek out high-quality products to enjoy the full benefits of these natural wonders.
December 27, 2023
Natural Ways to Get Longer & Healthier Hair

If you’ve ever been on a hair growth journey, you may know firsthand that waiting for your hair to be where you want it to be can be like watching paint dry. The average amount that hair tends to grow each month is between 0.5 and 1.7 centimetres. What you may not know is that there could be underlying conditions that impact hair growing slower such as hormones, genetics, stress, vitamin deficiencies, age, and so much more! Not to worry though, just because you may be dealing with one of these doesn’t mean that it isn’t possible for you to turn the health of your hair around. In this blog post we are going to list some natural and powerful ways to get longer and healthier hair. If you’re ready to whip your hair back and forth like a superstar, keep on reading..

Scalp Massages

One of the tried and true methods to promote hair growth is scalp massages. While many might think that the way to achieve longer locks is piling products on the hair, it really starts with the scalp. The scalp is at the root (literally) of where hair growth begins. The stimulation of blood vessels through massaging the scalp results in more blood flow which in turn helps the hair follicles receive more nutrients and oxygen to grow. Not only do scalp massages assist with hair growth but they also reduce stress, muscle tension, and promote relaxation.

Consume Healthy Fats

Fats have had a bad reputation in our culture for many years, but more recently people are realizing just how important they actually are for our health (we’re talking the good fats here). Some healthy fats that are amazing for you include avocados, nuts, olive oil, coconut oil, and fatty fish! The specific type of fats that just so happen to be the best for hair growth are omega-3 fatty acids which are found in fish like salmon & even foods such as eggs, flax seeds, chia seeds, and hemp seeds. Omega 3 promotes circulation in the scalp and a daily intake of 600mg has been shown to make a difference in as little as a couple of months. If you’re not a fan of eating fatty fish or other omega foods, you can opt for an Omega 3 supplement which we have at NutraChamps and makes it easy to get what you need!

Lower stress levels

As a society, we know very well just how much stress impacts the body in a negative way. Many of us can feel the impact on our health from high stress levels including anxiety, sleep issues, weight gain, and even yes – hair loss. Stress hair loss can look like finding more than normal hair falling out from brushing, washing, or touching the hair. The good news is that in most cases, hair can grow back once the peak of your stress is over. If you’re dealing with an especially stressful period in your life, one of the things you can do to help stress levels is to practice relaxation techniques. Some of these include meditation, deep breathing, and even yoga.

Get a trim for your split ends

You might be thinking, “how can a trim help my hair grow? Aren’t I just cutting off the progress?” While it might seem this way, getting a trim can actually be super beneficial for a natural and healthy hair growth. When split ends are untreated they can work their way up the the hair strands and cause more breakage to occur at the top of the head. One thing to make sure of is to clearly communicate with your stylist the intention of getting a hair trim. If too much hair is cut rather than just a slight dusting of the split ends, it will absolutely take longer to see the results you want in hair growth.

Taking biotin or and other high-quality supplements

One of the best ways to promote beauty from the inside-out is through taking a biotin supplement. A shortage of biotin in the diet can lead to brittle nails, dry skin, and even thinning hair! One of our best-selling products at NutraChamps is our high-potency biotin gummies, and for a good reason. We’ve had numerous customers tell us about their phenomenal hair growth experience using biotin! Sometimes in even just one month of taking it they notice that their hair has grown longer than usual. Other vitamins that are great for hair growth include Vitamin D, Zinc, and even Iron! We always recommend getting an in-depth blood test to check out and see if any deficiencies could be at play in why you’re experiencing a lack of hair growth.

If you’ve struggled with hair growth for quite some time, giving some of these natural hair growth remedies a try might be what you need. As we’ve mentioned, there could be many underlying factors causing hair loss or slow hair growth. It’s important to try and find the root cause while taking care of your hair in the best way possible. Here’s to longer strands!

September 7, 2023
Enhance Your Skin Health with These Amazing Supplements
Beautiful, radiant skin is a cherished aspect of physical appearance, and many individuals strive to achieve healthy and glowing skin. While a consistent skincare routine and a balanced diet play crucial roles in maintaining skin health, certain supplements can provide an added boost. In this blog post, we will explore the best supplements for skin health, backed by scientific research, and how they can contribute to improving the condition of your skin. Among the top contenders are NutraChamps’ black seed oil capsules, biotin gummies, and vitamin C gummies, which have gained popularity for their remarkable benefits.

Black Seed Oil Capsules: Nourishing Skin from Within

Black seed oil has been used for centuries due to its diverse health benefits, including its positive impact on the skin. NutraChamps’ black seed oil capsules offer a convenient way to incorporate this natural remedy into your daily routine. Rich in antioxidants, such as thymoquinone and thymohydroquinone, black seed oil helps protect the skin against harmful free radicals, which can lead to premature aging and skin damage (1).

Black seed oil has also demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce redness and irritation in the skin (2). These capsules also contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, essential for maintaining the skin’s moisture barrier, promoting elasticity, and preventing dryness (3). Regular consumption of black seed oil capsules may contribute to a more vibrant and youthful complexion.

Biotin Gummies: Promoting Healthy Hair, Skin, and Nails

Biotin, a water-soluble B-vitamin, is well-known for its role in promoting healthy hair, skin, and nails. NutraChamps’ biotin gummies offer a delicious and effective way to supplement your biotin intake. Biotin is involved in the production of keratin, a protein that forms the structural foundation of the skin, hair, and nails (4). Research suggests that biotin deficiency can lead to dry, itchy skin and brittle nails (5).

By incorporating biotin gummies into your routine, you can support the synthesis of new skin cells and promote a healthy turnover rate, resulting in a smoother and more radiant complexion. Additionally, biotin aids in the production of fatty acids, which are crucial for maintaining the skin’s moisture levels (6). Thus, these gummies not only contribute to better skin health but also improve the strength and luster of your hair and nails.

Vitamin C Gummies: Aiding Collagen Production for Youthful Skin

Vitamin C, a potent antioxidant, plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health and combatting the signs of aging. NutraChamps’ vitamin C gummies offer a convenient and tasty way to supplement your intake of this essential nutrient. Vitamin C is a key component in the synthesis of collagen, a protein that provides structure and elasticity to the skin (7).

Moreover, vitamin C protects the skin from oxidative stress caused by environmental factors, such as pollution and ultraviolet (UV) radiation (8). It also inhibits the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark spots and hyperpigmentation, resulting in a more even complexion (9). By incorporating vitamin C gummies into your daily routine, you can promote collagen production, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, and achieve a more youthful glow.

Achieving healthy and vibrant skin requires a holistic approach that includes a balanced diet, proper skincare, and adequate supplementation. NutraChamps offers three outstanding supplements that can enhance your skin health: black seed oil capsules, biotin gummies, and vitamin C gummies. Backed by scientific research, these supplements provide unique benefits for your skin.

Remember, while supplements can be beneficial, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating any new products into your routine, particularly if you have existing medical conditions or are taking medications. By combining a well-rounded skincare regimen with these carefully selected supplements, you can give your skin the nourishment it deserves and enjoy a radiant, healthy glow.

Sources:

Hosseini M, et al. “The effects of Nigella sativa L. on obesity: A systematic review and meta-analysis.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 235: 492-509, 2019.

Ahmad A, et al. “Thymoquinone from Nigella sativa seeds promotes the antitumor activity of noncytotoxic doses of topotecan in human colorectal cancer cells in vitro by targeting multiple signaling pathways.” International Journal of Oncology, 47(2): 801-811, 2015.

Shin JW, et al. “Nigella sativa seed oil and metformin as safe alternatives to hormone therapy in menopause: A comparative study in animal model.” Drug Design, Development and Therapy, 11: 207-212, 2017.

Trüeb RM. “Serum biotin levels in women complaining of hair loss.” International Journal of Trichology, 8(2): 73-77, 2016.

Patel DP, et al. “A review of the use of biotin for hair loss.” Skin Appendage Disorders, 5(2): 90-95, 2019.

Zempleni J, et al. “Biotin and biotinidase deficiency.” Expert Review of Endocrinology & Metabolism, 8(2): 197-198, 2013.

Telang PS. “Vitamin C in dermatology.” Indian Dermatology Online Journal, 4(2): 143-146, 2013.

McRae MP. “Vitamins for the skin.” Nutrition, 29(11-12): 1131-1137, 2013.

Pullar JM, et al. “The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health.” Nutrients, 9(8): 866, 2017.
July 17, 2023
Black seed oil: A Wonder Cure that’s Sweeter than Honey!
When it comes to natural remedies, black seed oil is the bee’s knees (and we don’t mean just because it’s darker than honey!). This potent oil has been used for thousands of years for its various health benefits, and it’s finally getting the recognition it deserves. Whether you’re looking to improve your skin, boost your immune system, or just live your life to the fullest, black seed oil is the answer you’ve been searching for.

Let’s start with the outside: using black seed oil topically is like a love letter to your skin. The oil is chock-full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that work together to keep your skin looking and feeling its best. From reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles to helping to soothe irritated skin, black seed oil is a skincare superhero. Plus, it’s light and non-greasy, so you can use it as part of your daily routine without worrying about feeling oily.

Black seed oil isn’t just good for your skin—it’s good for your insides too! The oil has been shown to have a variety of health benefits when taken internally, including boosting your immune system and improving digestion. It’s also packed with essential fatty acids and vitamins that are essential for overall health and wellness. In fact, black seed oil has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches, infections, and even asthma.

One of the most exciting things about black seed oil is that it’s easy to consume. NutraChamps has black seed oil capsules that are convenient to take, making it a great option for anyone looking to add the oil to their daily routine. Whether you’re a busy bee who’s always on the go or a chill bird who just wants to take care of yourself, black seed oil is the perfect addition to your self-care routine.

So, what are you waiting for? Give black seed oil a try and see the buzz-worthy results for yourself. We promise you won’t be disappointed!

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796020/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5836918/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6517440/
February 3, 2023
From Head to Toe: The All-Around Benefits of Coconut Oil
Introducing the magic of coconut oil: the one-stop-shop for all your health and beauty needs! From cooking to skincare, this versatile oil has been gaining popularity in recent years for its numerous benefits. But don’t just take our word for it, let’s dive into the science behind this tropical treasure.

First off, let’s talk about the health benefits of consuming coconut oil. One of the main components of coconut oil is medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), which have been shown to improve heart health by increasing “good” HDL cholesterol and reducing the risk of heart disease (1). In addition, coconut oil has been found to aid in weight loss by increasing feelings of fullness and decreasing calorie intake (2).

The incredible benefits of coconut oil don’t stop there. This oil has also been shown to have antimicrobial properties, making it a great natural alternative for fighting off bacteria and yeast infections (3). And let’s not forget about its potential benefits for brain health, as some studies have suggested that MCFAs found in coconut oil may improve memory and cognitive function in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease (4).

Now let’s move on to the beauty benefits of coconut oil. You may already be familiar with its use as a hair mask or leave-in conditioner, but did you know that coconut oil can also do wonders for your skin? Its moisturizing properties make it a great option for treating dry, irritated skin and even reducing the appearance of wrinkles (5). Plus, its antimicrobial properties make it an effective natural alternative for treating acne (6).

But let’s be real, who has the time to slather coconut oil all over their hair and skin on the daily? That’s where NutraChamps comes in. Our coconut oil capsules make it easy to incorporate the benefits of this tropical treasure into your daily routine. Plus, they’re a great option for those who may not be a fan of the taste or smell of coconut oil.

In conclusion, coconut oil is a versatile and powerful natural remedy that offers a variety of health and beauty benefits. From improving heart health to moisturizing skin, this tropical treasure is a must-have in your medicine cabinet. And with NutraChamps coconut oil capsules, incorporating the benefits of this oil into your daily routine has never been easier.

References:

St-Onge MP, Bosarge A. Weight-loss diet that includes consumption of medium-chain triacylglycerol oil leads to a greater rate of weight and fat mass loss than does olive oil. Am J Clin Nutr. 2008 Mar;87(3):621-6.

St-Onge MP, Jones PJ. Greater rise in fat oxidation with medium-chain triglyceride consumption relative to long-chain triglyceride is associated with lower initial body weight and greater loss of subcutaneous adipose tissue. Int J Obes (Lond). 2008 May;32(5):840-5.

Coronel P, et al. Antifungal susceptibility of yeasts isolated from patients with vulvovaginal candidiasis: in vitro activity of coconut oil and fluconazole. J Med Microbiol. 2010 Sep;59(Pt 9):1053-8.

Newport MT, Van Dam ND, Kato-Kataoka A, et al. Medium-chain triglycerides increase brain ketone uptake in Alzheimer’s disease patients. J Lipid Res. 2018;59(11):2048-2053.

Verma P, et al. Coconut oil in dermatology: a review. Int J Dermatol. 2015 Aug;54(8):932-9.
January 23, 2023
Leftover pumpkin? Here’s 5 cool things you can do with that!
Leftover pumpkin?

Halloween has passed and Thanksgiving is coming up sooner than you realize!

I know for sure I’ve got 3 pumpkins that are going to waste in the next week. They really only look great carved for about a week, and that’s only because the cold weather is preserving them. I wanted to find a way to use what was left of the pumpkin without wasting it: ’tis the season!

Whether you are using it whole, carved, or from a can, here are 5 ways to avoid throwing out pumpkin remains!

1. Freeze it.

Remove your pumpkin flesh from the pumpkin and roast it or throw it into the food processor and freeze it in an ice cube tray to throw into meals later on. If you’re using whole or real pumpkin flesh, roast the pumpkin first by cutting it into sections. Place your pumpkin cut-side down in a baking dish with about a cup of water, and bake for about 90 minutes or until the flesh is tender. Then, simply scoop out the flesh and puree it in a food processor. I like to freeze pumpkin and other hard to cut/prep Winter squash so that I know when I need it, it is already prepped for me! When it’s cold out and I want soup, I just reheat a half a dozen cubes, add spices and vegetables and I have a super quick and easy base for a hearty Winter Squash soup!

2. Post-workout.

Pumpkin seeds are a great post-workout recovery treat. They are high in Zinc, protein, and magnesium. Here’s how I prep them!
1. Remove the seeds from your pumpkin, rinse to get rid of any pulp, then pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Feel free to use other herbs and spices like cumin, garam masala, curry powder, cinnamon, cayenne, or chili powder.
3. Roast at 425 degrees for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure they cook evenly and don’t burn.
It’s as simple as that! I like to throw these on top of a salad or a smoothie, but you can also eat these as a snack after a workout to keep you satiated before your next big meal.

3. Plant it!

Whether you carve your pumpkin or not, you can place some beautiful annuals into a pumpkin as a planter! Make sure the top of the pumpkin is cut off, remove the seeds and flesh from inside, and set them aside for later. Pack some potting soil into the pumpkin – fill it up about 1/3 of the way up. If you are using a jack-o-lantern, this may be a bit tougher, but still do-able! Place your plant into the pumpkin and fill the rest with more potting soil.\

It’s up to you whether you want to leave this on your porch or plant it immediately into your garden. Pumpkins are great planters because they naturally compost and provide fertilizer for your other plants!

4. Snacks or meals.

I don’t use pumpkin year-round, so when this season comes around, I get super amped up and use it in everything. Because pumpkin does not have an overpowering taste, I love to mix it into sweet 🍬 and savory 🧂 foods. Lately, it has been handy in providing me high doses of tryptophan and magnesium. Tryptophan is an amino acid that regulates your mood and helping you fall asleep easier and more soundly. Magnesium is also great for sleep, but I also rely on it for relaxation of the nervous system, muscle growth, and regulating bowel movements.

If I’m making hummus, I put in a scoop or two (1/2 cup of pumpkin) to add extra nutrients and a different flavor profile. If I want some oatmeal for breakfast, I will make myself a creamy Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal with steel cut oats or rolled oats. Mixing pumpkin with a bunch of seasonal spices warms me up right away and helps me look forward to the cooler months ahead.

5. Face Mask.

No, not that kind of face mask. I mean a mask for your face that helps to hydrate, brighten, fight acne, smooth,and more! Because pumpkin contains vitamin A, C, and E, this mask will help to reduce wrinkles and exfoliate dead skin cells. The zinc and potassium in pumpkin also helps to fight redness. The addition of apple cider vinegar helps to detox the skin and fight acne. Honey locks in moisture, while the egg helps to tighten and lift the skin. It’s the perfect mask for the cooler Winter months.

[one_half_first]

INGREDIENTS:
- 1 small slice of pumpkin (roughly ½ cup)
- 1 raw egg
- ½ teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar
[/one_half_first][one_half_last]

DIRECTIONS:
1. If you are using canned pumpkin, add all ingredients into a bowl and mix. If using a slice of pumpkin, throw it all into a blender or food processor.
2. Apply to clean and toned face.
3. Leave on for 15-20 minutes
4. Rinse off with warm water and continue with your usual skincare routine.
[/one_half_last]

Remember: It’s important to patch test these products on your skin before making a mask that you will leave on your face!

Let us know what you end up doing with your leftover pumpkin or squash! We look forward to reading about your unique ideas in the comments below!
November 1, 2021
10 Supplements That Keep You Looking Youthful!

Eating well is always going to be my number one suggestion if you want to be healthy on the inside and out.

You’ve probably heard the saying: “You can’t out-exercise a bad diet”. The same thing goes for supplements.

You can’t take a bunch of pills and expect your body to react or absorb any of them. That’s exactly why they’re called supplements – they make your diet complete by filling all the gaps in your day-to-day food consumption. Ever since humans developed agriculture, we’ve been transforming the planet and throwing the soil’s nutrient cycle out of balance. Similar to climate change, this has happened over generations, in not-so-obvious ways. It’s clear that many people are interested in enhancing their bodies with the use of supplements.

Here are some supplements that we recommend to help emphasize your inner and outer beauty.

Biotin

Although most people are not deficient in this B7 vitamin, it is common for people to not get enough of it in their diet alone. It can be found in many animal products as well as a few vegetables, like sweet potatoes, spinach, and broccoli. Not only does Biotin turn carbs, fats, and proteins into energy, but it also helps maintain the normal function of your nervous system. A healthy nervous system plays a huge role in healthy nails, skin, and hair. Aim for 30-100 mcg a day and ensure that you have that by using supplements if you need.

Collagen

There are at least 16 types of collagen! When collagen is digested, it turns into amino acids that are good at treating inflammatory skin conditions. More importantly, Collagen is a protein that provides the infrastructure to much of your body, including your bones, skin, tendons, and ligaments. Not only does it have a positive effect on your outer appearance, but especially inside, in that it keeps you strong. Taking supplements is recommended, but if you are ok with animal products like bone broth, gelatin, chicken skin, and pork skin, those are great natural food sources to incorporate into your diet!

Turmeric Curcumin

Turmeric has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for over 4,500 years. It’s popular in Eastern and Western societies for having anti-inflammatory properties that are said to rival those in ibuprofen. High in antioxidants, Curcumin protects healthy cells found in the colon from cancer-causing agents. This magical spice can also help delay the aging process and fight age-related chronic diseases. If you don’t like to ingest it orally, try a face mask! Although Turmeric tends to stain everything it comes in contact with, it works well to even out your skin’s natural tone. By inhibiting an enzyme in the skin that produces pigment, turmeric also lightens age spots, scars, and other discolorations.

Vitamin A

This is an essential vitamin you’ll want to include in your beauty regime, as it has the ability to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and photo-aging, which are all side effects of sun damage. For those who do not want to apply it topically, you can find Vitamin A in fatty fish, kale, sweet potatoes, carrots, collard greens, chicken liver, and more. For quicker results, topical is the way to go. Vitamin A also protects your skin against infection and encourages healthy skin cell production. Women can aim for 700 mcg daily, and men can aim for 900 mcg, but try not to over-consume, as this is toxic for our bodies.

Vitamin C and E

Both vitamins are strong antioxidants and aid in collagen production. Both vitamins E and C also work well hand in hand and it’s often recommended that you take them together. These vitamins can help protect you from environmental damage, which has been shown to cause acne and premature aging. Individually, these vitamins are both powerhouses! Vitamin C and E are great to have on hand to boost your immune system response, to treat macular dysfunction, and to help prevent sunburn and UV damage. The daily requirement is 2000 mg of Vitamin C and 15mg of Vitamin E.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is important for preventing signs of aging and supporting your immune system and mental health. However, to receive the necessary quantity you need from sun exposure, you would likely become sunburnt. If you get your Vitamin D from natural sunshine, make sure to wear some protection like sunscreen, sunglasses, or a hat. If you choose to supplement, look for one that includes a good source of Vitamin K. This makes Vitamin D much more absorbable. Depending on the source, your body, and the season, you can take between 1,000 IU and 4,000 IU to hit your daily D requirements.

Probiotics & Prebiotics

Pre- and probiotics are important for maintaining gut health and boosting your immune system, which helps you have healthier skin, nails, and hair overall. Prebiotics feed probiotics, so it’s important to take both or to find foods that contain either. Popular prebiotics include: garlic, onions, asparagus, bananas, root vegetables, and seaweed. Most fermented foods are considered probiotic. Depending on your gut, you may need a variety of different strains, or just one, so get tested by a Naturopath or other health professional so you can save money and take only what is necessary for your body.

Omega-3 Fish Oil

Omega-3 supports your skin’s natural barrier, leading to higher retention of moisture. Properly moisturized skin is less prone to acne, inflammation, and aging, and is healthier altogether. Omega-3 can provide that moisture/lubrication, but not topically. It also improves eye health, sleep quality, and bone and joint health. Whether it comes from fatty fish or a supplement, aim for up to 3,000 mg daily, especially if you are suffering from heart disease or depression and anxiety, keeping in mind that that would be the highest range you should hit.

Melatonin

Melatonin doesn’t have a direct effect on looking youthful, but when your body is lacking restful sleep, your outward appearance may show it. This could lead to dull skin and hair, under-eye bags, and premature wrinkles. To make sure you get enough sleep or can fall asleep on time, taking 0.3 mg – 5 mg of melatonin can help, making sure that you slowly build up your dose rather than starting at the highest range. Get enough zzz’s and you’ll naturally look and feel more awake!

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider vinegar has plenty of beauty and health benefits, whether applied topically or through ingestion. Acetic acid and antioxidants in ACV help to restore the natural pH balance of the skin and protect it from wrinkles and acne. It also has antibacterial properties, which can help prevent cavities, reduce bacteria-causing plaque, and fight bad breath when used in a homemade mouthwash. Use it on your hair for extra shine or on your scalp to prevent dandruff. If taking ACV orally, aim for 2-4 tablespoons a day for beauty benefits!

Just like we’ve slowly, but quite powerfully, made our impact on the Earth, do not expect to see instant results. When it comes to herbal supplements, slow and steady wins the race! A healthy supplement routine needs time to adapt and work with your body, so try it out for a few weeks to a month to see results. What is important is to focus on what you’re putting into your body so that it can radiate outwards.

December 29, 2020
Eat Yourself Beautiful: Nutritional Beauty

Do you think about nutritional beauty?

Today, many people wear makeup for multiple reasons: to feel empowered, because they like the art of it, to feel pretty, etc. In fact, according to a 2019 Business Insider article, the beauty industry is so prolific that it has grown to be worth $532 billion. For me, makeup is part of my ritual and I use it mostly for weekends and special occasions. However, I’m also a strong believer in taking care of what’s on the inside, alongside what’s on the outside.

But did you know that you don’t need to spend tons of cash on products just to feel pretty? Even something as simple as including various foods high in nutrients that are good for you, your skin, and hair can do wonders about how you feel. Check out some of these power foods to consider adding to your diet that are both good for your health and for your looks. It’s called nutritional beauty!

Water

Basic, yes. But think about it, by 2020 the skincare industry is expected to make 2.6 billion dollars in sales. How much of that do you think is on moisturizers alone? The human body is made up of 60% water and when you’re dehydrated, your skin becomes dry, flaky, less resilient, and more prone to aging. So, have a glass of water and help your skin out a little. It’s probably one of the easiest and most simple ways to work on your nutritional beauty.

Red wine

Red wine is good for you, not because of the alcohol or the grapes, but because of a nutrient in the grape skins, resveratrol. Resveratrol can help reduce the effects of anti-aging, as well as act as a cardioprotective, anticancer, neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory nutrient. Not only that, but nutritional beauty gives you a great excuse to drink wine!

Green tea

As well as being full of antioxidants, green tea also contains something called catechins, which can protect skin from sun damage and reduce any redness caused by sun exposure. I would recommend this beverage if you live somewhere sunny.

Salmon

Salmon is rich in Omega-3, which helps to support your body’s natural oil production. This keeps your skin and hair healthy, soft, and shiny where it needs to be. If you need a veggie option, chia seeds, flax, walnuts, and hemp are also rich in Omega-3.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, potassium, vitamin A, vitamin B, and magnesium. Vitamin C helps support collagen production. This helps to improve skin elasticity, support hydration, and reduce wrinkles. They also contain lycopene, which can boost your skin’s natural protection against ultraviolet damage.

Turmeric

Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory, which can help with a number of health benefits. The one we’re concerned about here is that it helps reduce redness in your skin. Turmeric can also remove toxins from your blood. This helps to promote clear skin.

Eggs

Eggs are rich in sulfur, which helps to promote the production of collagen and keratin. Both of these are important for the overall health of your skin and hair. If you don’t like to eat eggs, make a hair mask with an egg white and some coconut oil for extra shine and strength!

Oats

Oats are full of zinc, biotin, magnesium, and potassium. Every one of these things are essential for maintaining healthy hair. Biotin specifically can help assist in hair regrowth, as well as support the thickness and shine of your hair.

Now, it may seem like a lot, but remember, beauty comes from outer AND inner. Nutritional beauty is one of the best ways to benefit both. Good luck!

December 22, 2020
Biotin Offers More Than Just Beauty Benefits

Many of you know the positive benefits that biotin can have on our hair, skin, and nails, but did you know it can do a lot more than improve your appearance? It is common to believe that dull nails, hair, and skin are due to a lack of biotin. Most of the time, this is not the case. It is likely caused by other deficiencies in the body.

How to get Biotin

B Vitamins help convert food into energy. Biotin, also known as Vitamin B7, can be ingested from food, pills/capsules, or liquids/drops. The efficiency of each may differ according to how your body converts, recognizes, or uses this vitamin.

It’s important to understand that we can naturally ingest Biotin through proper food sources, that most people are not deficient. Also, it is water-soluble, so whatever your body doesn’t need will be excreted in the urine.

You can find small amounts of biotin in everyday foods like egg yolks, organ meats, nuts, soybeans, whole grains, bananas, mushrooms, and cauliflower. Cooking these foods render the biotin less effective, so eating these raw or in a less-processed form means you will be able to reap the benefits of more active biotin. We live in a world where food is highly processed, even the stuff we consider “natural”. Soils are not as potent and rich in minerals as they once were, due to conventional farming, so we are left with food that is plentiful, yet disappointingly, the quality is lacking.

Supplementing

Seeing as a lot of vitamins and minerals are lacking from our food, it’s safe to say we can supplement with Biotin. It plays an essential role in metabolizing proteins, carbs, and fats! According to the Mayo Clinic, adolescents and adults should be ingesting between 30-100mcg (micrograms) of biotin a day. It’s pretty rare to have a deficiency of it, and taking too much is a tough thing to do.

Keep in mind, consumption of raw eggs on a regular basis may cause biotin deficiency because avidin, a protein present in raw egg whites, strongly binds to biotin thus making biotin unavailable for intestinal absorption. Other than that, you are likely not going to become deficient if not supplementing.

Warnings

Like all supplements, Biotin comes with a few warnings. If you have any lab tests coming up, stop taking your supplements three days prior. Always speak to a doctor about whether or not taking Biotin is safe to add to your regimen.

For those who are deficient, it’s important to get a good quality supplement. This means doing your research and finding a reliable and potent source of it. Finding a liquid version of this supplement works well for those who take a different dose from day to day, or who may need a specific amount of Biotin, and do not want to take several capsules.

Conclusion

Although Biotin seems to be great for hair, skin, and nails, scientists are delving deeper into the medicinal use of the supplement. There seems to be much more to this vitamin than we are giving it credit for, but the research isn’t out there just yet. There is little evidence that it helps to lower glucose levels over time. Even so, one study stated that it reduced symptoms of neuropathy in three diabetic subjects. For now, Biotin is a beauty supplement that has proven its’ worth for millions of users around the world simply looking for more luscious hair and plumper skin.

November 19, 2020
Black Seed Oil and it’s Natural Beauty Benefits
What is black seed oil?

Its official name is Nigella Sativa.

Believe it or not, black seed oil comes from a beautiful flowering shrub with purple or white-tinged flowers that grow in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and western Asia:

This unsuspecting shrub produces tiny black seeds that have been used in remedies for thousands of years. Even King Tut used them for healing and protection! Not only does this seed play a big role in our health, but it can also be used in cooking to add a flavor similar to that of cumin or oregano. Also known as black cumin, caraway, or kalonji, this potent seed has antioxidant properties as well as many health benefits:
- Reduces high blood pressure
- Reduces high cholesterol
- Reduces stomach upset
- Decreases asthma symptoms
- Improves rheumatoid arthritis symptoms (orally or topically)
- Can improve sleep quality
- And more!
Let’s focus on the beauty benefits of black seed oil, and how it can change your morning and evening beauty routine! Here are two ways you can incorporate black seed oil topically to improve your hair and skin.

SKIN

When placed topically on the skin, black seed oil (BSO) helps to unclog pores, fight acne, diminish fine lines and wrinkles, and helps fade hyperpigmentation. This whole time, I’ve been buying expensive, harsh products to do that to my skin, when I could have been applying BSO to my face.

“According to the Journal of Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery, applying a lotion prepared with 10 percent black seed oil significantly reduced the incidence of acne after two months.” – Healthline

It can also help with more problematic skin irritations like rosacea or eczema. It works well when mixed with other natural ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, beeswax, and hyaluronic acid. There aren’t really any contraindications, as you can blend it with almost anything, and it is great for all skin types!

Oil cleansing

What is oil cleansing?

I know, it sounds scary if you already have oily or problematic skin. Researchers are starting to uncover the benefits of oil cleansing and how it can be helpful in removing makeup, soothe sensitive skin, and tame breakouts. I know it sounds weird to put oil on top of your face to clean it, but it’s been shown to work better than traditional face soaps because it helps protect the natural lipid layer of the skin, meaning you aren’t washing away the good bacteria!

In short, putting a nourishing oil like BSO on your skin can lift excess sebum (the oily substance produced by your glands on your skin), clean out clogged pores (blackheads and whiteheads), and helps to remove dead skin cells, as well as pollutants and makeup from your day.

Here’s an easy way to oil cleanse with black seed oil:
1. 1-2 tsp of BSO should be enough. Do not use too much! A little goes a long way.
2. Apply the oil to your dry face. Using your fingertips, massage the oil into the skin for a couple of minutes. This will remove impurities and penetrate the skin. The massage also encourages lymphatic drainage (increasing collagen production and preventing wrinkles).
3. Use a wet face cloth to gently wipe away all the oil. Make sure not to use a rough face cloth; find something soft, and gentle for your skin. Rinse with warm water.
4. Pat dry with a towel and apply your moisturizer as usual to re-hydrate your face. If you have generally oily skin, you may not need moisturizer at all.
Try oil cleansing once a day, or less frequently as a special treatment. I recommend doing this at night to make sure your face is well-hydrated before bed.

HAIR

With the cold weather coming our way, I’m aware that my hair is getting drier and frizzier than usual. I try not to style it in the Winter because I know it will get staticky, and yet I still find my hair is uncooperative and dry! No fear, BSO is here!

Black seed oil is a miracle oil when it comes to hair regrowth. It can also help in hair fallout. Because BSO contains thymoquinone, a powerful antihistamine, it is often used for those who require hair regrowth or who have thinning spots. It’s a great natural alternative to antihistamines prescribed to patients with alopecia, a condition that causes hair to fall out in small patches. For those dealing with dandruff, BSO helps in maintaining scalp health because of it’s anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties! When used for aesthetic purposes, it is an all-around great oil to use in your hair to help hydrate, increase shine, and soften your hair.

Hair Mask

There are a few recipes for hair masks you could use, but it all depends on how much time you’ve got and what you have laying around the house. I personally love this one because I always have these ingredients in the house and I can leave it in while watching a 30-minute show on Netflix.

Ingredients:
- ½ cup of coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon BSO
- Shower cap
I have a lot of hair, so ½ a cup is perfect for me, but feel free to play around with the amount of oil and honey. As long as you remember to wash it out, this mask will rehydrate and make your hair smell heavenly!

Let us know if you try any of these. NutraChamps Black Seed Oil is the brand I’m currently using, but feel free to try different brands so you can find which one works best for you. Look for an oil that is 100% Extra Virgin Black Seed Oil, cold-pressed, unfiltered, and unrefined — with no preservatives, no additives, and no-nonsense.
November 13, 2020