NutraChamps Blog

Tag: stress relief

Lemon Balm, The Zesty Herb for Ultimate Anxiety Relief
Feeling stressed? Anxious about life’s little curveballs? Well, it’s time to welcome your zesty buddy, lemon balm! This vibrant herb has been captivating taste buds and soothing souls for centuries. But did you know that lemon balm offers more than just a delightful flavor? Buckle up, because we’re about to uncover the incredible benefits of consuming lemon balm for stress and anxiety. So, grab your favorite snack and get ready for a refreshing journey!

The Lemon Balm Magic:

Calms Your Mind and Eases Anxiety: When life throws lemons at you, embrace the power of lemon balm! This incredible herb contains compounds that interact with your brain’s GABA receptors, promoting a more calm and relaxed state. Scientific studies have shown lemon balm’s potential in reducing anxiety levels and improving overall mood. So, whenever you’re feeling overwhelmed, let this herb work its magic!

Boosts Your Mood: Lemon balm is more than just a stress-buster; it’s a mood booster! Its natural compounds help increase the availability of certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, which play a crucial role in regulating mood. A sunny dose of lemon balm might be just what you need to brighten your day and keep those positive vibes flowing!

Promotes Restful Sleep: Say goodbye to counting sheep and hello to lemon balm dreams! This incredible herb has been traditionally used to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. The calming properties of lemon balm can help quiet your racing thoughts, preparing you for a restful slumber. Wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day with a little help from lemon balm.

Supports Cognitive Function: Need a mental boost? Lemon balm to the rescue! Research suggests that lemon balm extract may enhance cognitive function, including memory and attention. So, the next time you’re hitting the books or need to stay focused at work, consider adding a touch of lemon balm to your routine. It’s nature’s secret weapon for sharpening your mind!

Ways to Enjoy Lemon Balm:

Now that you’re buzzing with excitement about the benefits of lemon balm, let’s explore some playful ways to incorporate this herb into your life:

Sip on Lemon Balm Tea: Brew yourself a cup of sunshine by steeping fresh or dried lemon balm leaves in hot water. Add a squeeze of lemon or a dollop of honey for an extra zest. Savor the aromatic goodness and let the stress melt away, one sip at a time.

Whip Up Lemon Balm Infused Recipes: Lemon balm isn’t just for tea; it’s a versatile culinary companion! Add a burst of flavor to your salads, desserts, or even cocktails by incorporating fresh lemon balm leaves. Get creative in the kitchen and let your taste buds dance to the lemony symphony.

Embrace Lemon Balm Supplements: When life gets busy, and you’re in need of a quick dose of tranquility, lemon balm supplements can be your go-to. NutraChamps Calm Gummies, for instance, contain lemon balm extract along with other natural ingredients known for their relaxation benefits. Pop a gummy, and let the calmness wash over you!

Lemon balm is nature’s zesty companion for a stress-free and anxiety-free life. From its soothing properties to its mood-boosting benefits, this vibrant herb holds incredible potential for your well-being. So, the next time life hands you lemons, don’t just make lemonade, reach for the lemon balm too! Embrace its playful flavors, explore its various forms, and let it add a refreshing twist to your daily routine.

Remember, with lemon balm by your side, stress and anxiety don’t stand a chance!

Sources:

Kennedy, D. O., Scholey, A. B., Tildesley, N. T., Perry, E. K., & Wesnes, K. A. (2002). Modulation of mood and cognitive performance following acute administration of Melissa officinalis (lemon balm). Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior, 72(4), 953-964.

Cases, J., Ibarra, A., Feuillere, N., Roller, M., & Sukkar, S. G. (2011). Pilot trial of Melissa officinalis L. leaf extract in the treatment of volunteers suffering from mild-to-moderate anxiety disorders and sleep disturbances. Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, 4(3), 211-218.

Scholey, A., Gibbs, A., Neale, C., Perry, N., Ossoukhova, A., Bilog, V., … & Buchwald-Werner, S. (2014). Anti-stress effects of lemon balm-containing foods. Nutrients, 6(11), 4805-4821.
May 29, 2023
5 Great Stress Management Techniques!

April is stress awareness month! The perfect time to reset & reflect on ways to better manage and deal with daily stressors that impact so many of us. Stress is unavoidable, whether it’s a deadline at work, financial concerns, or family drama, we all deal with stress every now and again. The point isn’t to completely eliminate stress, it’s to learn how to manage it.

In this article we are going to breakdown 5 excellent stress management techniques so you know how to take care of yourself, even when challenges arise!

UNPLUG:

So many of us work office jobs that require staring at a screen for most of the day. If it’s not always staring at a screen then it’s being in and out of meetings, and using our brain power for 8 hours or more! Not to mention, a long and tiring commute that can come along with work. A lot of this can put stress on the eyes and mind. One of the best things you can do is unplug for a few hours a day.

When you get home from work, try to put your phone away and truly relax. Make a good meal, light a candle, take a bath, read a good book, or spend time with loved ones. These are excellent ways to give yourself the break you deserve.

MOVEMENT

Exercise doesn’t just benefit the body, it benefits the brain too! Moving your body pumps up endorphins which are the brain’s feel-good neurotransmitter. Many people report changes in their mood, tension in the body, and better sleep.

Some of the best stress-busting activities include: yoga, walking, pilates, running, kick boxing, and tai chi.

NUTRITION

When we’re stressed, many of us reach for junk food as comfort food. Things like sugar, fried foods, and carbohydrates might provide pleasure in the short-term, but definitely leave the body feeling more lethargic in the long-term. Some of the best foods to eat for stress are whole foods that contain abundant amounts of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients.

Leafy greens, fatty fish, berries, oysters, and even dark chocolate contain essential nutrients to help brain health and the body.

TALK IT OUT

Keeping things bottled up is never a good idea. It’s amazing what leaning on a friend, partner, or family can do for stress levels. Talking things out makes such a difference because it means you no longer have to carry the weight and burden yourself.

If your stress and anxiety seems out of control, speaking with a licensed professional can also be a good idea. One amazing website where you can find therapy at a lower cost is BetterHelp. This website offers a number of therapists based on what your needs are.

MEDITATION

Quieting the mind is one of the greatest tools that we can learn. Meditation is one of the best ways to do this. Although it can be a challenge to sit still and focus on breathing, it’s a skill that takes time to practice and definitely pays off. Guided meditations are one of the best ways to help with stress and so many of them are available on an app called Insight Timer!

Practice these stress management tips with consistency and you’ll be sure to notice a difference in how you respond to external factors. Your body is always trying to look out for you by giving you signs, if you feel chronic stress, chances are you should really slow down. Take care of yourself because you deserve it!

April 11, 2023
From the Sea to the Land: The Best Sources of Omega Fatty Acids
Are you looking for a treasure trove of health benefits? Look no further than the world of Omegas! These powerful fatty acids are essential for our body and offer a wide array of benefits for our health. But where can you find them? Fear not, landlubber! In this article, we’ll explore the best sources of Omegas, both animal and plant-based. So let’s dive in!

Benefits of Omegas

Omegas are essential fatty acids that our body needs to function properly. The most well-known types are Omega-3, Omega-6, and Omega-9. Omega-3s are especially important for brain function and heart health, while Omega-6s play a crucial role in regulating inflammation in the body. Omega-9s, while not strictly essential, are still beneficial and have been shown to lower cholesterol levels.

But what are the specific benefits of Omegas? Well, studies have shown that Omega-3s can:

Improve brain function and reduce the risk of depression and anxiety

Lower inflammation in the body and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and arthritis

Improve heart health by reducing triglycerides, lowering blood pressure, and reducing the risk of heart disease

Improve eye health and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration

Omega-6s, on the other hand, are essential for:

Regulating inflammation in the body

Supporting brain function

Maintaining healthy skin and hair

Omega-9s, while not essential, have been shown to:

Lower cholesterol levels

Improve insulin sensitivity

Reduce the risk of heart disease

Sources of Omegas

Now that we know the benefits of Omegas, where can we find them in our food? Well, there are many sources of Omegas, both animal and plant-based. Let’s take a look!

Animal-based sources

Fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines are some of the best sources of Omega-3s. Just a 3-ounce serving of salmon can provide over 1,000 mg of Omega-3s!

Other seafood like shrimp, oysters, and mussels also contain Omega-3s, albeit in smaller amounts.

Grass-fed beef is a good source of Omega-3s, as well as other important nutrients like vitamin A and iron.

Eggs from pasture-raised chickens contain more Omega-3s than eggs from conventionally-raised chickens.

Plant-based sources

Flaxseeds are one of the best plant-based sources of Omega-3s. Just one tablespoon of ground flaxseeds can provide over 1,000 mg of Omega-3s!

Chia seeds are another excellent source of Omega-3s, as well as fiber and other important nutrients.

Hemp seeds are a great source of Omega-3s, as well as protein and other important nutrients.

Walnuts are one of the few nuts that contain Omega-3s, as well as other important nutrients like fiber and protein.

Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and collard greens contain small amounts of Omega-3s, as well as other important nutrients like fiber and antioxidants.

So there you have it, matey! The benefits of Omegas are numerous, and the best sources are a mix of animal and plant-based foods. Whether you prefer to get your Omegas from fatty fish or flaxseeds, there are plenty of options to choose from. And if you’re looking for a convenient way to supplement your Omega-3 intake, NutraChamps offers a high-quality Omega-3 supplement that’s made from sustainably-sourced fish oil.
March 24, 2023
Rhodiola: The Natural Remedy for Anxiety and Depression
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or just generally stressed out? Well, have no fear, because Rhodiola is here! That’s right, Rhodiola – the herb that’s been used for centuries in traditional medicine – can help improve your mood and reduce anxiety.

First, let’s talk about what Rhodiola is. It’s a plant that grows in cold regions of the world, such as the Arctic and mountainous areas of Europe and Asia. Its root has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine, particularly in Russia and Scandinavia, to treat a variety of ailments, including depression, fatigue, and anxiety.

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of how Rhodiola can benefit your mental health. One of the key ways it does this is by reducing the amount of cortisol in your body. Cortisol is a hormone that’s released when you’re stressed, and it can cause a lot of damage to your body if it’s chronically elevated. Rhodiola can help reduce cortisol levels, which in turn can help alleviate anxiety and improve mood.

But that’s not all – Rhodiola has also been shown to boost the levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain. These are two important neurotransmitters that are responsible for regulating mood, among other things. By increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters, Rhodiola can help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.

Another way that Rhodiola can benefit your mental health is by reducing inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation has been linked to a variety of mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety. Rhodiola has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.

So, how can you get your hands on some Rhodiola? Well, lucky for you, NutraChamps has a Rhodiola supplement that’s perfect for anyone looking to improve their mood and reduce anxiety. Their Rhodiola supplement is made with high-quality, pure Rhodiola root extract, and is free from any artificial fillers or additives. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly and non-GMO, so you can feel good about what you’re putting in your body.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a natural way to improve your mood and reduce anxiety, Rhodiola might just be the herb for you. With its ability to reduce cortisol levels, boost neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, and reduce inflammation, Rhodiola can help improve your overall mental health and wellbeing. So why not give it a try and see how it can benefit you?

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6208354/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7048584/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6212985/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6212967/
March 21, 2023
Ashwagandha: The Secret to Balance and Bliss
Hey there, wellness warriors! Are you looking for a little extra oomph in your daily routine? Well, let us introduce you to Ashwagandha, the miracle herb that’s taking the wellness world by storm. This ancient Ayurvedic herb has been used for thousands of years to improve overall health and well-being, and it’s not hard to see why. Whether you’re a man or woman, Ashwagandha can provide a host of benefits that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day.

What exactly is Ashwagandha and what does it do?

Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogenic herb that helps your body manage stress and promotes balance. It’s also known for its ability to boost energy, increase endurance, and even enhance cognitive function. And let’s not forget about its potential to improve sleep, reduce anxiety and depression, and enhance overall mood. With all these benefits, it’s no wonder that Ashwagandha is quickly becoming one of the most popular herbs on the market.

What is the science behind Ashwagandha?

Well, research has shown that Ashwagandha is rich in compounds that help regulate cortisol levels in the body, which is the hormone responsible for stress. By reducing cortisol levels, Ashwagandha can help you feel more relaxed and less anxious. In addition, Ashwagandha has been shown to improve brain function by increasing brain cell connections and improving memory and reaction time. This makes Ashwagandha a great choice for anyone looking to boost their brainpower, whether you’re a student, professional, or just looking to keep your mind sharp.

Why is Ashwagandha great for both men and women?

Well, for starters, it can help improve energy levels, increase endurance, and enhance overall physical performance. Whether you’re a man looking to build muscle or a woman trying to get through a tough workout, Ashwagandha can help you power through with ease. In addition, Ashwagandha has been shown to help improve sleep and reduce anxiety and depression, which can have a huge impact on overall well-being.

For women, Ashwagandha can also provide some specific benefits. Research has shown that Ashwagandha can help regulate hormones and reduce symptoms of PMS, making it a great choice for women looking to manage their menstrual cycles. Additionally, Ashwagandha has been shown to improve fertility and support a healthy pregnancy, making it a great choice for women who are trying to conceive.

How can you incorporate Ashwagandha into your daily routine?

The best way to start is with a high-quality supplement, and NutraChamps has got you covered with their Ashwagandha capsules. Simply take one or two capsules per day, and you’ll be on your way to experiencing the full range of benefits that Ashwagandha has to offer.

In conclusion, Ashwagandha is the perfect addition to anyone’s daily routine who wants to improve their overall health and well-being. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, boost energy levels, or enhance cognitive function, Ashwagandha has got you covered. If you’re looking to give this adaptogen a go, try NutraChamps Ashwagandha capsules today and see for yourself why this miracle herb is taking the wellness world by storm!

Sources:
- Gupta, A., & Mahdi, A. A. (2017). Role of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) in improving cardiorespiratory endurance
February 8, 2023
5 Reasons to Start Drinking Matcha

Matcha – vibrant green, earthy smelling, and delightfully bitter in taste. Although matcha has more recently become popular globally, its roots date back to centuries ago. The word matcha comes from Chinese origin. The Chinese are supposedly the first to have sipped on ground green tea leaves. I

You may be surprised to find out though that it is actually the Japanese who created the true method of the matcha we know today. The preparation of matcha was something sacred for Zen Buddhists and this tradition has been passed on for years.

Today, if you walk into your local Starbucks, you can order a matcha latte in a variety of different ways. While this tea is absolutely delicious, it also provides a wide array of health benefits. For this reason, some people are even making the big switch from drinking coffee to drinking matcha for their early morning pick me up. If you’ve been wondering whether matcha is really worth the hype, we are going to give you 5 great reasons why drinking more matcha might be a fantastic idea!

Matcha is rich in antioxidants

The more antioxidants something we consume has, the better! Antioxidants help to fight off free radicals in the body, which is important for combatting diseases and illnesses. Matcha just so happens to be an excellent source of antioxidants and contains even more than just regular green tea! Starting the morning with a cup of this tea will be a great wellness practice and set you up for the day powerfully!

Provides you with smooth energy and less jitters than coffee

Although matcha contains caffeine, it acts differently in the body than coffee. When you drink matcha, the caffeine is released more slowly due to the wonderful amino acid, L-theanine. This type of release provides you with more steady energy, rather than a sudden jolt that coffee can provide.

Can improve skin health

We all love a beverage that can help us glow from the inside out! Matcha contains chlorophyll which can help protect the skin from harmful UV rays. Some of the other plant compounds such as polyphenols help to calm inflammation in the body, and in turn can leave the skin less red and more glowing! Methylxanthines are another compound found in matcha, which works to promote healthy blood flow in the body! Better blood flow helps carry more nutrients and oxygen around the body, leaving you with a more radiant complexion.

It can boost your immunity

Being sick is no fun, but your daily dose of morning matcha might just be able to give you more of a chance to fight off viruses and bacteria. Matcha green tea has been shown to strengthen the immune system, particularly due to the antioxidant called Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG). This antioxidant is hard at work fighting off pathogens and leaving your immunity a little stronger!

It can help reduce stress and improve focus

A large part of productivity has to do with focus and feeling good. The amino acid in matcha called L-theanine can be to thank for the reduction in mental and physical stress. When L-theanine works alongside caffeine it helps you to feel more balanced. L-theanine is said to help anxiety, stress, and insomnia, while caffeine provides you with an energy boost! You can’t go wrong because you’re getting the best of both worlds.

While coffee has its own unique benefits, matcha provides a wide array of them as well! The best way to get started in drinking matcha is to experiment and start slow. Utilize matcha in different ways such as in a beverage, added to a smoothie, or sprinkled on oatmeal. Notice how it makes you feel! It’s definitely hyped up on social media and beyond, for a good reason.

February 2, 2023
Can Float Tanks Actually Provide you With Just as Much Rest As Sleeping?

Have you ever experienced sensory overload? This could look like feeling overstimulated by sounds, sensations, lights, and people. Overstimulation occurs when your senses take in so much information that your brain can’t keep up. In return you can be left with feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and exhausted. Something that could really help you with overstimulation is REST, and we’re not talking about putting on your favorite Netflix show or drinking a glass of vino.

Floatation REST (Reduced Environmental Stimulation Therapy) is a method of therapy that involves floating inside a quiet and dark tank filled with epsom salt and heated to a comfortable temperature. Another name for this experience is called sensory deprivation, and it is being shown that more and more people are experiencing amazing benefits from partaking in it!

Benefits of Floating

Stress, anxiety, and depression relief: Until you’ve actually been inside a float tank, you’ve probably never experienced anything quite like it! Reduced stress might just be one of the best benefits that float tanks provide. A 2018 study actually shows that one single hour of floatation REST was capable of significantly reducing anxiety and improving the mood of 50 participants. These participants had stress and anxiety related disorders that ranged from PTSD, to panic disorder.

One of the ways that floating actually treats anxiety and depression is by slowing down the brain. Slowing down the brain results in synchronization of both halves which makes for decreased anxiety.

Reduces chronic pain: Dealing with a chronic issue can be debilitating, especially when there seems to be no cure or remedy for your specific situation. The good news is that if you deal with pain, tension headaches, or muscle aches, several studies have confirmed that float tanks can help!

For those who suffer with chronic pain such as fibromyalgia, floating tanks have been proven to be useful to help the pain and other side effects that come along with it. Just one hour in a float tank can help to promote deep rest, improve focus, and aid insomnia.

Boosts creativity: Depriving your senses and eliminating distractions forces you to go inwards. While floating has a number of health benefits, it can also help to inspire the creative side of you as well. Floating in a tank can actually impact your brain in such a positive way by helping you enter the theta state. This state in your bran is experienced while in a place of deep relaxation. This usually occurs before entering the sleep state, so it only lasts for a few minutes. It is quite possible that being in a float tank can extend the amount of time your brain stays in the theta state.

Theta state has been actually shown to enhance creativity. So whether you’re a musician, artist, actor, or simply want to get in touch with more of your creative side – a float tank might be a great place to start.

Improves cardiovascular health: If you haven’t already been convinced enough about why floatation therapy is so beneficial, it can also positively impact heart health! Research shows that floating can reduce blood pressure, slow the heart rate, and decrease stress which all benefit your heart.

In the United States, heart disease is the number one cause of death and can affect a variety of different people. Stress is a major contributing factor for the heart, especially chronic and long-term amounts of it. Many people turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms to deal with their daily stressors, which doesn’t help the situation. If more people tried healthy self-care practices instead such as meditation, breath work, movement, and floating, then we might see a healthy impact in society as a whole.

Wellness isn’t just about eating the right foods and working out, it’s also about allowing yourself to relax and eliminating stressors. Stress has a much bigger impact on the body and our health than you may realize. That is why doing things to calm your nervous system and benefit your mental health are so important. Float tanks are a fantastic way to prioritize your inner world and mental wellbeing. With regular use you will begin to notice just how much more calm, grounded, and relaxed you will feel!

Sources:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1876382014000845#bib0090

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796691/

https://paindoctor.com/float-tanks-chronic-pain/

https://www.floatationtankmelbourne.com.au/blog/floatation-and-creativity

January 26, 2023