NutraChamps Blog

Tag: healthy living

Are You Deficient In Magnesium? More Than Half the Population Is!
Magnesium is one of the most essential nutrients the body needs to stay healthy. Magnesium impacts almost every organ in the body and is used in various functions and processes within us. Despite its importance and critical role in how we function optimally, more than half of Americans are deficient in magnesium. We obtain magnesium from our foods, some of the highest sources being bananas, buckwheat, spinach, pumpkin seeds, and black beans! If you eat a healthy, well-balanced diet, chances are you aren’t struggling to meet your magnesium needs. Unfortunately, a well-balanced diet isn’t accessible to every American. A recent statistic from USDA found that more than 44 million people in the US face hunger, including 1 in 5 children. Sometimes the inexpensive option is the only option that some people have to put food on the table for their family. This is where affordable yet high-quality supplements, such as the ones we sell at NutraChamps, can make a difference in supporting nutrition and vitamin levels in the body. In this article, we will explain why magnesium is so beneficial and how supplementing with it can impact not only impact your own health, but also your children’s health!

Symptoms & negative impacts of magnesium deficiency

Before getting into the plethora of benefits adequate magnesium intake does for the body, we need to explain the signs and symptoms of how you could be magnesium deficient. According to the World Health Organization, more than half of the U.S. population does not meet the recommended daily intake of magnesium. It isn’t always accessible to test the blood for magnesium deficiencies, nor is it always accurate. There are common underlying factors that do put you at more of a risk for magnesium deficiency, though, and some of these include:
- If you have a gastrointestinal disorder such as Chron’s or celiac disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Alcoholism
- People over the age of 60 years old
- People who consume a diet of highly processed food
While some factors are out of an individual’s control as to why they are dealing with magnesium deficiency, many factors are in their control! The standard American diet doesn’t fully focus on whole foods, so switching from refined grains and sugars, to real foods from the Earth can make a difference in getting adequate magnesium.

If you aren’t getting enough magnesium in your diet or through supplementation, it can also impact the absorption of Vitamin D in the body, which is another critical nutrient. If your levels are too low, the body can’t properly metabolize Vitamin D, which is another reason why making sure you’re getting enough of this nutrient is important.

Here are some other common signs and symptoms of a magnesium deficiency in the body you can look out for:
- Muscle twitching & cramps
- Increased anxiety, stress, and depression
- Fatigue & muscle weakness
- Irregular heartbeat
- High-blood pressure
Although these symptoms can be linked to many other conditions or deficiencies, it’s definitely worth noting and taking a look at your diet and lifestyle to see if there are any missing links.

Top Benefits of Magnesium

Now that we’ve gone into some detail about the different ways magnesium deficiencies can impact the body, we’re going to share the incredible benefits of getting enough magnesium.

Magnesium supports sleep!

More and more research has emerged about the vital role magnesium plays in getting better quality sleep. Studies have found that higher levels of this mineral in the body contributed to deeper sleep, longer sleeping times, and less fatigue. It is not 100% certain as to how magnesium positively impacts sleep but scientists think it has something to do with the way certain chemicals act in the brain. A few studies even found that magnesium can support insomnia! Magnesium is an excellent nighttime option to take as a supplement to help you wind down and get the quality rest you need to feel and perform at your best!

Magnesium can support mental health conditions

Most people experience anxiety, stress, and low mood from time to time, but if they become consistent, chances are there could be an underlying cause, such as a magnesium deficiency. Magnesium has been shown to have an overall calming effect on the body by controlling neurotransmitters in the brain, similar to the way it helps with sleep. A study published by PubMed found that magnesium was effective in helping to treat major depression along with a variety of other mental health conditions. Magnesium can also lower cortisol, which is the main stress hormone in the body. Lower cortisol levels automatically results in a more calm and steady mood throughout the day.

Supports cardiovascular health

Although more research in this area is needed, some studies show that magnesium has the ability to lower high blood pressure levels. In an article published by Everyday Health, Dr. DeSimone a cardiac electrophysiologist and associate professor of medicine in the department of cardiovascular medicine at Mayo Clinic said that, “Magnesium is a key electrolyte in the body and is necessary for proper homeostasis. Especially in cells that are electrically excitable, like those in the heart.” Lower magnesium levels have been linked to or can worsen an irregular heartbeat.

The facts are evident, many people are deficient in magnesium, whether it’s due to a lack of nutrient intake in the diet or other factors. The good news is that supplementation options are available for both adults and children to ensure they’re getting enough of this essential mineral! NutraChamps Magnesium, Zinc & D3 supplement is an excellent choice for meeting your daily magnesium goals while still getting the extra benefits of immune boosting Zinc and the sunshine vitamin, D3. We now also offer kids magnesium gummies, which are delicious in flavor and exceptional in benefits for children! By eating a balanced diet, focused on whole foods and supplementing with magnesium, your whole family is sure to get the right amount of this essential mineral to keep you all healthy & strong!
September 5, 2024
Why Ditching Alcohol Is Becoming More Popular
Growing up as kids, lots of us witnessed our parents and the young adults in our lives indulging in alcoholic beverages such as wine, beer, or various other forms of liquor. People would gather for family events, social events, or even sporting events and drinking would be involved. For thousands of years, humans have been drinking alcohol, overtime it has become a social aspect of life for a variety of cultures and backgrounds. It’s not until more recently that studies have been coming out about the impacts (both short and long-term) that alcohol has on the body. In small doses, alcohol acts as a stimulant, but overall alcohol is a depressant and slows down communication between the brain and body. The World Health Organization published an article last year stating, “no level of alcohol consumption is good for our health.” In fact, the substance has been classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. This may come as a surprise, how can something that is actively part of of our cultures and socialization be this harmful? Well, it’s with this emerging information that more and more people are opting to ditch alcohol and take on soberiety.

In this blog post, we are going to go in more detail about the impact alcohol has on the brain and body and mention some natural and healthier alternatives to alcohol.

If you’re interested to learn more or want to make the switch from alcohol to sobriety, keep on reading!

Negative Health Impacts From Alcohol Consumption

Short-term effects:

Did you know that within 5 minutes of your first sip of alcohol you begin to feel the effects? The first place that alcohol impacts is your brain. At first you might feel relaxation, the urge to become more talkative, and even more confident. As the consumption continues, other short-term effects begin to take over such as:
- Impaired coordination
- Slurred speech
- Unstable emotions
- Nausea
- Loss of balance
- Loss of bladder control
- Inability to remember
- Potential loss of consciousness
It is in this state of less inhibition where danger has the potential to occur. Under the effects of alcohol humans have an increased risk of injury, violence, self-harm, sleeping problems, vomiting, and hangovers. There is even the potential of alcohol poisoning which occurs when someone’s BAC (blood alcohol level) can get too high. This has the potential to be fatal.

Long-term effects of alcohol:

Being a consistent drinker of alcohol, long-term effects may take place in both the body and mind.

Here are just some of the systems that alcohol can impact and cause damage to overtime:
- Digestive and endocrine glands
- Inflammatory damage
- Blood sugar levels
- Nervous system
- Circulatory system
- Sexual and reproductive health
- Skeletal and muscle system
- Immune system
With all of this emerging research, it’s no surprise that many people, especially younger generations are opting to go alcohol free!

Here are just some of the benefits of living a sober life:
- You will look and feel better
- You will save money
- You will have more meaningful and deep relationships
- You will live your life to the fullest
If you use alcohol for social anxiety, to feel relaxed, or to get a feeling of happiness here are some alternatives:
- Kombucha
- Matcha
- Caffeine
- Adaptogens
- Mocktails
Health should be a priority not just for a few, but for everyone. Without our health we don’t have much. Investing in your health and vitality is the best investment you can make! When it comes to alcohol consumption, you might want to think twice on cracking open a bottle of wine daily if you want to maintain optimal health and wellness. If you or someone you know is dealing with alcoholism, here are some resources that can provide support.
February 22, 2024
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
The Sweet Slumber: Harnessing the Power of Tart Cherry for Restful Sleep
A good night’s sleep is essential for overall well-being and optimal cognitive function. Unfortunately, many individuals struggle with sleep disturbances, leading to a range of health issues. While there are various remedies available, both natural and pharmaceutical, one lesser-known solution stands out—tart cherry. Rich in naturally occurring melatonin, tart cherry has shown promising results in promoting better sleep quality. In this article, we will explore the scientific research supporting the use of tart cherry for sleep and how it can improve your sleep routine. We will also introduce NutraChamps, a brand offering convenient and effective tart cherry gummies and capsules for enhanced sleep and additional health benefits.

Tart Cherry and Melatonin:

Melatonin, often referred to as the “sleep hormone,” is a natural hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It plays a crucial role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle, helping us fall asleep and maintain a restful slumber. Tart cherries are one of the few natural food sources that contain melatonin, making them an excellent dietary option for those seeking better sleep.

Scientific Research:

Several studies have examined the effects of tart cherry on sleep quality. In a randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, researchers found that consuming tart cherry juice concentrate significantly increased sleep efficiency, total sleep time, and overall sleep quality in older adults with insomnia (1). Another study conducted by the same research group showed that tart cherry juice supplementation improved sleep duration and quality in athletes suffering from sleep disturbances (2). These findings suggest that tart cherry consumption can benefit individuals with various sleep-related concerns.

Muscle Recovery and Uric Acid Buildup:

Beyond its sleep-inducing properties, tart cherry offers additional advantages for health and well-being. Research suggests that tart cherry has potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in muscle recovery after exercise-induced damage (3). Furthermore, tart cherries contain anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that can help reduce uric acid levels and potentially alleviate symptoms associated with gout (4). Therefore, incorporating tart cherry into your daily routine can contribute to not only better sleep but also improved muscle recovery and reduced uric acid buildup.

NutraChamps: Making Sleep Support Easy and Convenient:

When it comes to harnessing the sleep-enhancing benefits of tart cherry, NutraChamps offers a range of high-quality products designed to fit your lifestyle. NutraChamps tart cherry gummies and capsules provide a convenient and effective way to incorporate this natural remedy into your daily routine. The gummies offer a delicious and chewy option, while the capsules provide a quick and easy solution for those on the go. With both options, you can rest assured that you are consuming the optimal dosage of tart cherry to support your sleep.

Sleep is an integral part of our daily lives, and ensuring quality rest is crucial for our overall health and well-being. The naturally occurring melatonin found in tart cherry makes it an excellent choice for individuals struggling with sleep issues. Scientific research demonstrates the effectiveness of tart cherry in improving sleep quality, and NutraChamps offers a convenient and reliable way to incorporate tart cherry into your daily routine. By embracing the power of tart cherry, you can take a proactive step toward achieving restful nights, enhanced muscle recovery, and reduced uric acid buildup.

Sources:

Pigeon, W. R., Carr, M., Gorman, C., & Perlis, M. L. (2010). Effects of a tart cherry juice beverage on the sleep of older adults with insomnia: a pilot study. Journal of medicinal food, 13(3), 579-583.

Howatson, G., Bell, P. G., Tallent, J., Middleton, B., McHugh, M. P., & Ellis, J. (2012). Effect of tart cherry juice (Prunus cerasus) on melatonin levels and enhanced sleep quality. European journal of nutrition, 51(8), 909-916.

Levers, K., Dalton, R., Galvan, E., O’Connor, A., Goodenough, C., Simbo, S., … & Kreider, R. B. (2016). Effects of powdered Montmorency tart cherry supplementation on an acute bout of intense lower body strength exercise in resistance trained males. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 13(1), 22.

Zhang, Y., Neogi, T., Chen, C., Chaisson, C., & Hunter, D. J. (2012). Cherry consumption and decreased risk of recurrent gout attacks. Arthritis & Rheumatism, 64(12), 4004-4011.
July 19, 2023
Natural Sources of Potassium for Maximum Potential
Potassium, the essential mineral and electrolyte, has long been known for its importance in maintaining healthy bodily functions. This mighty mineral plays a crucial role in various body processes, including muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and regulating blood pressure. The good news is that potassium is abundant in nature and can be easily incorporated into your diet. In this article, we will explore some natural sources of potassium and the benefits of including them in your diet.

Bananas: The Potassium Powerhouse

When you think of potassium, the first thing that comes to mind is probably bananas, and for good reason! One medium-sized banana contains around 400mg of potassium. Not only are they a great source of potassium, but they are also packed with other essential nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. Bananas are also easy to incorporate into your diet, whether as a snack, part of a smoothie, or added to your morning oatmeal.

Sweet Potatoes: A Delicious Source of Potassium

If you’re looking for a potassium-rich food that’s also delicious, look no further than sweet potatoes. One medium-sized sweet potato contains around 450mg of potassium. Sweet potatoes are also a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them an excellent addition to any diet. You can bake, roast, or mash sweet potatoes, making them a versatile and tasty ingredient for any meal.

Spinach: The Leafy Green Potassium Powerhouse

Spinach is another fantastic source of potassium, with one cup of cooked spinach containing around 840mg of potassium. Not only is spinach high in potassium, but it’s also packed with other essential nutrients like iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C. Spinach can be added to salads, smoothies, and soups, making it an easy and versatile way to increase your potassium intake.

Avocado: A Delicious and Nutritious Source of Potassium

Avocado is a delicious and nutritious fruit that’s high in potassium, with one medium-sized avocado containing around 700mg of potassium. Avocado is also a great source of healthy fats and fiber, making it a filling and satisfying addition to any meal. You can add avocado to your toast, smoothies, salads, or even make guacamole for a healthy and delicious snack.

Potassium is a crucial mineral that plays a significant role in maintaining healthy bodily functions. Incorporating natural sources of potassium into your diet is an easy way to ensure that you’re getting enough of this essential mineral. Bananas, sweet potatoes, spinach, and avocado are just a few of the many delicious and nutritious foods that are high in potassium. By adding these foods to your diet, you’ll not only be increasing your potassium intake but also enjoying a range of health benefits.

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/high-in-potassium

https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Potassium-HealthProfessional/
May 3, 2023
Nervous about Your Nervous System? Try These 5 Supplements for Support
The nervous system is a complex network that controls our body’s movements, sensations, and cognitive functions. It plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health and well-being. However, due to our hectic lifestyles, poor dietary choices, and stress, our nervous system can become compromised. Fortunately, certain supplements can help support the nervous system and improve its functioning.

In this blog post, we will explore 5 supplements that can provide nervous system support.
1. Magnesium: Magnesium is a vital mineral that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including nerve function. Studies have shown that magnesium deficiency can cause neurological disorders such as anxiety and depression. Magnesium can help calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety by regulating the release of stress hormones. It also supports brain function by enhancing memory and cognitive performance. Magnesium supplements are widely available and can be easily incorporated into your daily routine.
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that our bodies need but cannot produce on their own. These fatty acids play a crucial role in brain function and development. Studies have shown that omega-3 supplements can reduce anxiety and depression by decreasing inflammation and regulating neurotransmitters. Omega-3 supplements can be found in fish oil, krill oil, or algae-based supplements.
3. Vitamin B-Complex: The B-vitamins are essential for maintaining a healthy nervous system. They play a crucial role in nerve function, neurotransmitter synthesis, and energy production. Vitamin B6, in particular, can help reduce stress and anxiety by increasing the production of the neurotransmitter GABA. A deficiency in B-vitamins can lead to neurological disorders such as peripheral neuropathy and depression. Vitamin B-complex supplements are widely available and can provide overall nervous system support.
4. Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety by regulating cortisol levels and enhancing GABA receptors. It also has neuroprotective properties and can improve cognitive function. Ashwagandha supplements can be found in capsule or powder form.
5. L-Theanine: L-Theanine is an amino acid found in tea leaves that has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system. It works by increasing alpha waves in the brain, which promotes relaxation without causing drowsiness. L-Theanine also improves cognitive function and can enhance attention and memory. L-Theanine supplements can be found in capsule or powder form.
The nervous system is a crucial component of our overall health and well-being. Poor dietary choices, stress, and environmental factors can compromise its functioning. Fortunately, certain supplements can provide nervous system support and improve its functioning. Magnesium, Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin B-complex, Ashwagandha, and L-Theanine are all supplements that can help support the nervous system. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Sources:
- Boyle, N. B., Lawton, C., & Dye, L. (2017). The Effects of Magnesium Supplementation on Subjective Anxiety and Stress—A Systematic Review. Nutrients, 9(5), 429.
- Grosso, G., Pajak, A., Marventano, S., Castellano, S., Galvano, F., & Bucolo, C. (2014). Role of omega-3 fatty acids in the treatment of depressive disorders: a comprehensive meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. PloS one, 9(5), e96905.
- Kennedy, D. O., & Wightman, E. L. (2011). Herbal extracts and phytochemicals
April 11, 2023
5 Health and Wellness Podcasts Worth Listening to!

Podcasts are huge right now! So far in this year alone there are 464.7 million listeners globally and that number only seems to be growing. One of the main reasons why podcasts have become such a great way of consuming information and content is because you can multitask while listening to them. Many people are choosing to listen to podcasts during their commute to and from work, while cleaning the house, or even working out! Podcasts are a fantastic learning tool providing so much valuable information.

At NutraChamps, we’re a big fan of learning as much new information as we can about health, wellness, and mindset!

In this article we’re going to share some of the hottest and most valuable health and wellness podcasts you can check out.

5 Health and Wellness Podcast Recommendations

The Doctor’s Farmacy Podcast with Dr. Mark Hyman:

This podcast is fantastic because it is centered around rethinking disease and the way our food system and healthcare systems are set up. It empowers you to to take wellness into your own hands by providing information around topics such as supporting gut health, thinking better thoughts, and how inflammation in the body actually happens. Dr. Mark Hyman has had a number of guests on his podcast who are knowledgeable in their fields. Mark himself is a practicing family physician and internationally recognized leader in functional medicine.

You can listen to his podcast on most audio platforms such as Spotify and Apple music, as well as YouTube. To visit his website and browse through podcast episodes click this like here!

Huberman lab:

The human brain is super fascinating and responsible for our thoughts, feelings, emotions, and so many other bodily functions. Andrew Huberman is a neuroscientist and has a PH.D, so it is safe to say he’s super intelligent and knows his stuff when it comes to the brain. His podcast dives deep into our brain and nervous system and is frequently ranked in top 15 podcasts globally!

Here is one of his latest episodes worth listening to: https://hubermanlab.com/leverage-dopamine-to-overcome-procrastination-and-optimize-effort/

Jay Shetty, On Purpose Podcast:

Jay Shetty is a #1 New York Time’s best selling author and just so happens to be a host of this podcast, which is one of the largest in the world! His guests and episodes aren’t only related to health, he also talks about relationships, lifestyle, and so much more! Jay has had some of the most well known guests out there and well known guests in the health and wellness field. One amazing episode that we highly recommend you listen to is featuring Dr. Daniel Amen, go give it a listen here!

The Art of Being Well with Dr. Will Cole

Another functional medicine expert, Dr. Will Cole is most known for having started one of the first functional medicine Telehealth centres. He has an amazing podcast with some amazing guests that focus on ways to nurture the body, mind, and spirit. Self-care and self-love when it comes to nutrition and wellness is what it’s all about for Dr. Will Cole. To browse through his wide range of topics, check out his website https://drwillcole.com/podcast.

Danica Patrick Pretty Intense Podcast

She used to be a race car driver breaking barriers and setting records, now Danica has a love for fitness, food, and helping others. Her pretty intense podcast has had some pretty incredible guests such as Joe Dispenza, Dr. Gabor Mate, and even Andrew Huberman! She covers a wide range of topics on her podcast but the health and wellness episodes definitely go deep and have a ton of good information. To check out her most recent episodes you can visit her website here!

If you guys have gotten this far and have any great podcast recommendations for us, please let us know by leaving us a comment. We would love to hear from you!

If you have listened to any of these podcasts before, let us know which one is your favourtie!

March 30, 2023
The Zinc Connection: How This Mineral Affects Your Body
Oh hey there, health enthusiasts! This article is going to talk about a micronutrient that’s small in size but plays a significant role in keeping our bodies healthy – zinc! You may have heard of zinc as a supplement, but did you know that it’s actually found in various food sources too?

Let’s dive into the importance of zinc, what foods you can find it in, and why supplementing with it might be essential.

The Lowdown on Zinc:

Zinc is a mineral that’s vital for our immune system, wound healing, and cell growth and division. It’s also essential for our senses of taste and smell. In fact, a zinc deficiency can lead to impaired taste and smell, delayed wound healing, hair loss, and even infertility. So, getting enough zinc in our diet is crucial!

Food Sources of Zinc:

Luckily, zinc can be found in a wide variety of foods, including:

Meat: Beef, pork, and chicken are excellent sources of zinc. Just one serving of beef provides about 7 milligrams of zinc, which is nearly half of the recommended daily intake for adult men.

Seafood: Oysters are the richest source of zinc, with just six medium-sized oysters providing over 30 milligrams of zinc! Other seafood sources of zinc include crab, lobster, and shrimp.

Dairy: Milk and cheese contain small amounts of zinc, but they can still contribute to your daily intake. Some dairy products are also fortified with zinc.

Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are plant-based sources of zinc. Vegetarians and vegans can rely on legumes to meet their daily zinc needs.

Nuts and seeds: Cashews, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and hemp seeds are good sources of zinc. They’re also rich in other nutrients like magnesium and healthy fats.

Supplementing with Zinc:

While getting enough zinc through food is ideal, some people may benefit from taking a zinc supplement. For example, vegetarians and vegans may have a harder time meeting their daily zinc needs through food alone, as plant-based sources of zinc aren’t as well absorbed by the body as animal-based sources. Additionally, athletes, pregnant women, and older adults may need more zinc than the average person.

NutraChamps has a few different zinc supplements to choose from, including a liquid zinc supplement that can be added to your favorite beverage, a zinc+ liquid supplement that’s highly absorbable, and zinc gummies that are delicious and perfect for supporting your immune system during cold and flu season.

So there you have it, folks – the importance of zinc, where to find it in your diet, and why supplementing with it might be beneficial. Whether you choose to get your zinc from food or supplements, make sure you’re getting enough of this important micronutrient to support your health and wellbeing. And if you’re in the market for a high-quality zinc supplement, NutraChamps has got you covered!
March 23, 2023
Milk Thistle Seed: The Ultimate Liver Protector
Attention all health nuts and liver lovers, have you heard about the latest craze in natural liver detoxification? It’s none other than the milk thistle seed! Yes, that’s right, this humble little seed that you’ve probably never even heard of before, is the answer to all your liver-cleansing needs.

First off, let’s get to know our little hero, shall we? Milk thistle seed (scientifically known as Silybum marianum) is a flowering plant that belongs to the daisy and ragweed family. It’s native to Mediterranean countries and has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times. The active ingredient found in milk thistle seed is silymarin, a flavonoid that has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

So why should you care about milk thistle seed and silymarin? Well, for starters, it’s the ultimate liver protector and detoxifier. The liver is one of the most important organs in our body, responsible for filtering out toxins, producing bile, and storing glucose for energy. However, due to poor dietary choices, excessive alcohol consumption, and exposure to environmental toxins, our liver can become overloaded and sluggish. That’s where milk thistle seed comes in.

Studies have shown that silymarin can help protect the liver from damage caused by toxins and free radicals. It also stimulates the production of new liver cells and improves liver function. So if you’ve been a little too enthusiastic with your drinking, or if you’ve been exposed to environmental toxins, adding milk thistle seed to your daily routine can help give your liver the boost it needs.

But that’s not all! Milk thistle seed has a host of other health benefits that you’ll want to take note of. For instance, it can help lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and even boost breast milk production in new mothers.

Now, we know what you’re thinking. “This all sounds great, but where can I get my hands on milk thistle seed?” Lucky for you, there are plenty of ways to incorporate it into your diet. You can take it in supplement form, or you can add the ground seeds to your smoothies, oatmeal, or yogurt. Just make sure you’re buying from a reputable source and that the product contains at least 80% silymarin.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all this milk thistle seed talk, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. NutraChamps has created liver detox capsules that contain milk thistle seed and silymarin, along with other liver-supporting ingredients like dandelion root and artichoke leaf. It’s the ultimate liver-cleansing powerhouse, all wrapped up in an easy-to-swallow capsule.

In conclusion, milk thistle seed may be a mouthful to say, but it’s worth adding to your vocabulary if you want to keep your liver healthy and happy. With its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s the perfect addition to any detoxification routine. So go ahead, give it a try, and let us know how it goes. Your liver will thank you for it.

Sources:
- Abenavoli L, Capasso R, Milic N, Capasso F. Milk thistle in liver diseases: past, present, future. Phytother Res. 2010 Oct;24(10):1423-32. doi: 10.1002/ptr.3207. PMID: 20812243.
- Huseini HF, Larijani B, Heshmat R, Fakhrzadeh H, Radjabipour B, Toliat T, Raza M. The efficacy of Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn. (s
March 6, 2023
Vitamin C: The Magic Nutrient that Keeps You Smiling!
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a crucial nutrient that we all need to keep our bodies in tip-top shape. It’s like the superhero of nutrients, providing our bodies with a variety of benefits that help us feel our best. But what exactly makes Vitamin C so special? And why do we need it in our lives? Let’s explore!

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, which means it dissolves in water and our bodies can’t store it for later use. That’s why it’s important to include Vitamin C in our daily diets, to make sure we are getting enough of it.

What exactly does Vitamin C do for us?

Well, for starters, it’s a powerful antioxidant. This means it helps protect our bodies from harmful free radicals that can damage our cells and contribute to the development of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and even the common cold. Vitamin C also plays a crucial role in helping our bodies produce collagen, which is important for maintaining healthy skin, bones, and connective tissues.

Vitamin C also helps boost our immune systems, which is especially important during cold and flu season. In fact, research has shown that people who regularly consume Vitamin C are less likely to get sick. (source: The Linus Pauling Institute)

In addition to its role in supporting our immune systems, Vitamin C has also been shown to help improve our moods. That’s right, this little nutrient can actually make us feel happier! Studies have shown that people with higher levels of Vitamin C have a reduced risk of depression. (source: The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition)

So, how do we make sure we’re getting enough Vitamin C in our diets?

Well, there are a variety of fruits and vegetables that are rich in this magic nutrient, including oranges, strawberries, kiwis, bell peppers, and spinach, to name a few. But if you’re like most people, it can be difficult to get enough Vitamin C from your diet alone, which is why supplements can be a great option.

At NutraChamps, we offer high-quality Vitamin C supplements that come in both capsules and gummies, making it easy to get your daily dose of Vitamin C no matter your preference. And the best part? Our Vitamin C supplements are made with natural ingredients, so you can feel good about what you’re putting in your body.

To wrap it up, Vitamin C is a crucial nutrient that provides our bodies with a variety of benefits, from boosting our immune systems to improving our moods. So, if you want to feel your best and keep smiling, make sure you’re getting enough Vitamin C in your diet. And if you need a little help, NutraChamps has got you covered!

Sources:

The Linus Pauling Institute: Vitamin C

The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition: Vitamin C Status and Mood

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
February 9, 2023