BioCare

Does all health originate in our gut? Our gut is a key adaptive system that mediates many functions and is thus central to health and disease. But poor gut health, combined with the challenges of the modern life and our complex environment, can often leave us feeling uncomfortable, sluggish, and sensitive to foods.

If you find you are struggling with your gut health, you could be experiencing a range of symptoms from bloating, irregular bowel movements to food sensitivities. Gut function is complex and dependent on inter-related factors: balance of bacteria, digestion, gut integrity, and motility. We need all of these to work in harmony with each other for optimum gut health.

BioCare’s gut category range has been designed to support all these areas of gut health. 

DIGESTION

Do you find it difficult to digest foods, perhaps resulting in bloating, burping or flatulence? Do some foods sometimes not agree with you? 

You might need support for your digestion. Our bodies have a complex and powerful system of enzymes in our gut to help us break down foods into smaller particles and use them.

SUPPLEMENT SOLUTIONS FOR DIGESTION:

Polyzyme Forte

• Enzymes are powerful molecules to help break down foods into smaller particles, including proteases for protein, lipase for fats, lactase for lactose in dairy products, and amylase for carbohydrates
• Provides eight different digestive enzymes with distinct roles: bromelain, lipase, protease, amylase, cellulose, lactase, maltase and sucrase
• Designed to retain breakdown capability over a wide range of pH variances, all the enzymes are acid stable against stomach pH
• Vegetarian source, acid stable enzymes which are used to assist the body’s own natural process
• For everyday use, 1 capsule can be taken with every main meal

Bio Acidophilus is a blend of the unique, clinically researched LAB4 complex of live bacteria for everyday use

• Contains 20 billion per daily intake of the clinically researched LAB4 strains. The LAB4 complex is one of the most clinically researched combinations of live bacteria, consisting of two specific proprietary strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus, along with Bifidobacterium bifidum and Bifidobacterium lactis
• Human compatible strains that are bile and acid resistant and adhere to the gut wall
• Also contains FOS (Fructooligosaccharides) which help to maintain a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria, including Bifidobacteria, promoting healthy gut function

Need more support?

HCl & Pepsin is a combination of betaine hydrochloride (HCl) and the protein-digesting pepsin enzyme

• Hydrochloric acid is naturally found in the stomach and is essential for creating an acidic environment to enable protein digestion and activation of pepsin
• Also provides a high amount of pepsin which is a potent protease enzyme naturally produced in the human body, essential for breaking down protein in food into smaller peptide fragments and amino acids
• An acidic stomach environment is crucial for digestion, absorption of nutrients, immune protection, and enzyme activity. Different dietary and lifestyle factors including stress, as well as age, can reduce the body’s production of stomach acid
• Capsule form allows convenience and splitting dose throughout the day ensures maximum efficacy

BALANCE OF GUT BACTERIA

Do you have gut issues that started after a trip abroad, an upset stomach, or taking antibiotics? Are your symptoms worse after eating, especially foods high in sugar, carbohydrates, or yeast (bread, beer, wine), or fibre (vegetables or wholegrains)? Have you been told by a practitioner or done a test which indicated an imbalance of gut bacteria?

SUPPLEMENT SOLUTIONS FOR BALANCE OF BACTERIA:

MicroClear

A potent botanical complex with oregano, thyme, olive leaf, barberry & wormwood for gut health and balance of bacteria.

• Oregano, thyme, barberry, clove and olive leaf promote a healthy function of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as providing antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory support
• Thyme, oregano, olive leaf, and barberry also aid immunity, and the health of the urinary & respiratory tracts, providing comprehensive systemic support
• The plant oils have been freeze-dried to reduce irritation to the gut and promote absorption for systemic use
• Easy to swallow capsules allowing convenience and splitting dose throughout the day ensures maximum efficacy

Bio acidophilus Forte 

Contains 30 billion of the clinically researched LAB4 live bacteria alongside FOS (Fructooligosaccharides) which help to maintain a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria, promoting healthy gut function. Use alongside MicroClear 2-4 hours away, for comprehensive, longer-term support, whereas MicroClear alone would be for up to 3 months.

GUT INTEGRITY

Do you react to certain foods like those containing dairy and gluten, perhaps with pain and discomfort?

You might need support for the integrity of your gut ‘mucous membranes’ (gut wall). Our gut lining is made up of multiple protective layers which guard us from toxins and pathogens. It is made up of thin mucosal tissue which is vital for nutrient absorption and colonisation of friendly bacteria.

SUPPLEMENT SOLUTIONS FOR GUT INTEGRITY:

GI Complex  

– Gut support complex containing vitamin A, zinc, and ginger to support the mucous membranes, the intestinal tract, and inflammation, with L-glutamine, nucleotides, and live bacteria.

• A unique combination of L-glutamine, N-acetyl glucosamine, nucleotides, alpha lipoic acid, ginger, live bacteria including Lactobacillussalivarius, vitamins A, C, and zinc
• Vitamin A supports the gut wall (the mucous membranes of the digestive tract) and the function of the immune system, and vitamin C and zinc contribute to the protection of cells from oxidative stress. Vitamin C also supports collagen formation
• Ginger helps to support digestion, contributing to the normal function of intestinal tract and may also help to manage inflammatory responses
• Nucleotides are the building blocks of our DNA, especially needed for the fast-replicating cells of the digestive tract. Our needs for nucleotides increase during periods of stress, illness, or injury
• Easily mixed into liquids. An alternative to tablets or capsules or for those with digestive and absorption difficulties

Prefer a capsule?

Permatrol

A unique and powerful nutrient complex combining a blend of L-glutamine, N-acetyl glucosamine, and live bacteria.

• Per daily intake, Permatrol provides 750mg of L-glutamine and 450mg of glucosamine, as well as 66iu of vitamin E, 120mg of gamma oryzanol and 1 billion live bacteria
• Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress

GUT MOTILITY

Do you have issues with irregular bowel movements? Do you sometimes feel the urgency to ‘go to the toilet’, or perhaps pass a bowel movement less often than once a day?

You might need to support your ‘gut motility’. The movement of food and fluid through the digestive tract is essential to digestion, absorption, and excretion. Disrupted motility and consequent slowing down or speeding up of this process can contribute to a number of uncomfortable symptoms and will also have wider implications such as nutrient malabsorption and impaired detoxification.

SUPPLEMENT SOLUTIONS FOR GUT MOTILITY:

Prebio NutriPowder  – A unique blend of plant fibre including marshmallow, inulin, FOS, GOS, arabinogalactans, and resistant starch for digestion and regular bowel movements

• Fructooligosaccharides help to maintain a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria, including Bifidobacteria, promoting healthy gut function
• Also includes marshmallow which helps to support digestion and regular bowel movements., as well as apple pectin and acacia gum
• Easily mixed into liquids. An alternative to tablets or capsules or for those with digestive and absorption difficulties

Need more support? Try pairing with our Bio Acidophilus – A blend of the unique, clinically-researched LAB4 complex of live bacteria for everyday use.

STOMACH FUNCTION

Do you need to soothe your digestive system, especially your stomach and throat?

The digestive tract provides a protective barrier that protects us from the outside world, but also from the powerful enzymes and acids that we produce during digestion. Sometimes, we may have an imbalance of enzymes or acid, they may be produced at the wrong times, or our mucus membranes may need support. 

SUPPLEMENT SOLUTIONS FOR STOMACH FUNCTION:

Slippery Elm Intensive is a higher strength powder option containing slippery elm & marshmallow to support digestion, the mucous membranes, and soothe the gastrointestinal tract with gamma oryzanol and cinnamon.

• All-in-one, high strength powder blend of slippery elm with liquorice and aloe vera to support and soothe the digestive system
• A unique, potent and synergistic combination including marshmallow, gamma oryzanol, zinc and cinnamon
• Slippery elm soothes the digestive tract and is a source of mucilage, which supports mucous membranes in the body. Liquorice helps support digestion and particularly helps to maintain balance and comfort in the digestive system
• Use at full dose for optimum effect, or split the powder dose between meals

Prefer a capsule?

Slippery Elm Complex – Contains slippery elm & marshmallow to support digestion, the mucous membranes, and soothe the gastrointestinal tract, with gamma oryzanol. 

• A combination of slippery elm powder, marshmallow root and gamma oryzanol.
• Marshmallow supports gastrointestinal health
• Slippery elm soothes the digestive tract and is a source of mucilage which supports the mucous membranes

Credit Article BioCare : https://www.biocare.co.uk/news/gut-a-problem.html

Celebrating the Rude Health Magazine 2024 Award Winners

Rude Health Magazine, a longstanding partner in the health and wellness industry, loved by health-conscious shoppers across the country, has announced the winners of its prestigious annual awards. The votes are in and we're excited to announce our winners of  2024 Rude Health Magazine Awards. 

Weleda - Skin Food: Winner of Best Body/Beauty Product PLATINUM award

If there’s just one thing you need to take with you to a desert island, it’s this little green hero. Skin Food is a universal saviour of dry, rough skin on faces, elbows, hands, and feet – wherever you take a lot out of your skin, let Skin Food love your skin back to its best.

First formulated in 1926, we’re not surprised that Weleda Skin Food has won the top award in this category. It’s the ultimate natural multi-tasking moisturiser for dry, rough skin everywhere, and everyone should have a tube!

Comvita - Manuka Honey Soothing Elixir: Winner of Best Immune Support GOLD award

Comvita Manuka Honey Elixir with Propolis is an all-in-one immune support formula, providing zinc which contributes to the normal function of the immune system. Peppermint oil supports healthy airways and Propolis contains high levels of bioflavonoids.

This soothing elixir is a bestseller for a reason and we are delighted that this cupboard essential has been awarded in this category.  

BioCare - Children’s Complete Multinutrient: Winner of Best Kids Product GOLD award

A comprehensive formula providing the nutritional support children need for healthy growth and cognitive development, strong bones, and immunity. Providing the full spectrum of nutrients needed for children as they grow and develop, including vitamin D, calcium, iron, and zinc, this is recommended by healthcare practitioners and trusted by parents.

Suitable from 6 months, this great tasting banana flavour formulation comes in an easy to take powder; mix into drinks or sprinkle onto foods.

We are delighted that BioCare has won this prestigious award for a great all-round children’s product.

Is your skin showing signs of ageing, are wrinkles increasing and your skin is looking dull, losing elasticity, and becoming dry?

You might need to support your collagen production.  Skin is the largest organ in the human body. Skin acts as a protective barrier from the outside world, shielding our internal organs and systems from harmful external factors like infections, trauma, sun (UVA) damage, or toxins.

What is collagen and what does it do?

Did you know that up to 35% of all body protein content is made up of collagen? It is a key component of our connective tissue – the most widely distributed tissue in the body, which binds, holds, supports and strengthens other body tissues, as well as insulates and protecting the organs.  It makes up our ligaments, tendons, skin, joints, cartilage, bone and even the gut lining, blood vessels and our teeth! It is, therefore, vital to the health and proper integrity and function of ALL body tissues and organs. 

Collagen has become widely talked about for its potential benefits in promoting youthful skin and supporting joint health. Like any protein, collagen is made up of long chains of amino acids, however, the high concentration of proline, glycine and hydroxyproline make collagen quite unique. Our body produces various types of collagen, for example type I, II, III and so on. Type I forms the vast majority of body collagen. Nutrient cofactors, including vitamin C, are required to help with collagen formation.

Although we can buy collagen in powders or supplements, it is not guaranteed that it will be used properly in the body, it is quite a big molecule and it gets broken down in the stomach, rendering it less useful. That’s why it is important to get the right type of collagen, with proven benefits. Marine Collagen is type 1 collagen. It contains 8 out of 9 essential amino acids which cannot be produced by the human body itself. Marine collagen displays a high resemblance with human collagen and is easily absorbed through the gut wall and quickly delivered to the target tissues. 

Our skin is the largest structural organ in the body and covers up to an incredible 2m2 of our body’s surface. Collagen makes up 95% of our skin. and so poor production or synthesis, can result in poor skin quality such as wrinkles, sagginess, and poor skin healing after burns/cuts.

Common signs of weak connective tissue and decreased collagen synthesis:

• Decreased skin elasticity, sagging, wrinkles, easy bruising
• Poor nail and hair health
• Vaginal dryness
• Joint problems such as stiffness
• Frequent sport injuries e.g. torn ligaments and stress fractures
• Broken facial capillaries - so called ‘spider veins'
• Intestinal permeability, aka ‘leaky gut’ which gives symptoms such as bloating, gas, cramps, food sensitivities, and aches and pains

What is hyaluronic acid and what does it do?

In the realm of skincare, hyaluronic acid is added to many face creams and serums, it has been hailed for its rejuvenating properties to hydrate skin and reduce wrinkles. Hyaluronic Acid is a natural viscous substance primarily found in different types of connective tissue like skin and cartilage, muscles, organs –e.g., brain, eyes, and intra- and extracellular fluid. It is also found in synovial fluid, helping to lubricate joints and reduce friction, and the skin epidermis, having a vital protective role. In skin it acts as a moisturiser, attracting and retaining water to keep the skin hydrated, plump and supple, helping reduce signs of ageing. Additionally, hyaluronic acid has anti-inflammatory properties.

Did you know hyaluronic acid also plays a role in the synthesis and maintenance of collagen in the body.

How does Vitamin C support skin health?

Vitamin C is required for efficient collagen production in the body. Without an adequate supply of vitamin C, we will have reduced collagen supply, and we can end up with weak connective tissue and problems with our joints, skin, bones and so on.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals from the environment. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage collagen and elastin fibers, leading to premature aging, wrinkles, and dull skin. 

What can you do?

So, how can we support our collagen production and synthesis to support our connective tissue and improve our skin appearance? How can taking collagen alongside vitamins and other nutrients in supplements help?

The key to supporting your collagen synthesis is to provide your body with the necessary building blocks, by managing your diet and including the necessary nutrients. Managing stress and inflammation is also critical to help maintain the health of the cells involved in collagen production.

Below you’ll find some useful tips on supporting your collagen production for your skin health.

Supplement Recommendations 

BioCare Liquid Collagen and Hyaluronic Acid is a unique and high potency combination of 8000mg of hydrolysed marine collagen with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C in a mango & orange flavoured liquid for healthy skin:

• Effective – With vitamin C which contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin and protection of cells from oxidative stress
• Advanced - Utilising a clinically researched and advanced form of type I collagen, studied in women over 45 showing positive impact on skin elasticity, hydration, radiance, firmness, and wrinkle reduction over 12 weeks of supplementation
• Comprehensive – With added hyaluronic acid which has a unique property of binding to water molecules. It’s found at high concentrations in all of the skin layers, providing hydration, protection, enabling nutrient delivery and excretion of waste
• Optimum support – Not all collagen is equal – our collagen has been specifically selected for its low molecular weight and a unique amino acid profile which has high resemblance to human skin collagen, ensuring optimum absorption and effectiveness
• Superior – Carefully designed by our clinical nutritionists to provide exceptional potency, synergy, and effectiveness, whilst also being pleasant and convenient to take every day
• Flexible – In a pleasant mango & orange flavoured liquid. Easy to take, convenient stick sachets. An alternative to tablets or capsules or for those with digestive and absorption difficulties
• No unnecessary additives - Free of artificial colours and flavours
• Sustainably sourced collagen - Traceable, single sourced, freshwater collagen source, independently certified to the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) standards
• 14 days supply at 1 sachet per day 

Prefer something in a capsule form? Try Collagen Complex, a unique combination of powerful nutrients including collagen, hyaluronic acid nucleotides and antioxidants for skin, joint and bone support:

• Effective – Uses the superior form of type 1 marine collagen with hyaluronic acid & vitamin C for skin, joint & bone support. Our collagen is easily absorbed & rapidly transported into the bloodstream, quickly reaching the target tissues
• Advanced – Nucleotides are the building blocks of our DNA, especially needed for the fast-replicating cells of connective tissue
• Specific solution – One of our edited range of go-to specific solution products for your health concerns
• Comprehensive – Also includes a rich mix of antioxidants and flavonoids including vitamin C, zinc, hesperidin, rutin and rosehip powder
• Optimum support – Vitamin C supports collagen formation for heathy skin and bones and protects cells from oxidative stress. Zinc contributes to normal DNA and protein synthesis
• No unnecessary additives
• 30 days supply at 2 capsules per day

Lifestyle Recommendations

Regular exercise is important for encouraging fibroblast function, which are connective tissue cells that stimulate collagen production.

Expose yourself to sunlight to stimulate Vitamin D synthesis, which is important in modulating inflammation and skin health. Do this in 10–15-minute intervals, seeking shade in between, ensuring to use an SPF 30 or higher to prevent burning.

Reduce your exposure to environmental toxins by eating more organic food, avoiding plastic, and using natural skincare and cleaning products. Wear protective clothing/layers if dealing with harsh chemicals.

Reduce stress and inflammation in the body by ensuring a good evening and sleep routine, incorporating mindful moments into your day and exposing yourself to nature.

Dietary Recommendations

Consume protein daily, ideally eating a portion per meal such as lean meat, fish, lentils, legumes, beans, pulses, nuts & seeds (including ground and nut butters).
Ensure you are keeping yourself hydrated by drinking 1.5L water a day. Reduce your intake of caffeine and opt for herbal teas/flavoured waters. Increase your intake if you are doing intense exercise.

Include plenty of colourful fruits and vegetables in your diet to increase your intake of nutrients that act as co-factors for collagen and to increase antioxidant intake which helps prevent degradation of collagen.

Eat foods containing good omega-3 fatty acids such as oily fish (sardines, maceral, anchovies, herring, and salmon) to help support the skin barrier and reduce inflammation that could damage skin cells.

Reduce consumption of foods and drinks that can promote inflammation e.g. gluten, dairy, sugar, alcohol, caffeine.

Optimise your digestion to ensure you are effectively absorbing nutrients needed for collagen formation. Consume fermented foods such as kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha, to support your gut microbiome and bitter foods including apple cider vinegar, rocket, radishes, and artichoke to help with the production of stomach acid. Eat mindfully so that your body is ready for digestion – take a couple of deep breaths before eating, focus on your food, avoid watching screens and chew food thoroughly. 

Credit: BioCare Article

Original Article & References: Liquid Collagen & Hyaluronic Acid for Healthy Glowing Skin (biocare.co.uk)

Do you struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep at night? Do you often wake up feeling tired and groggy, or find it hard to concentrate during the day due to lack of sleep? 

Try this Chocolate Cherry Dream smoothie recipe from BioCare, it contains simple ingredients, with the addition of BioCare Sleep NutriPowder, to provide you with nutrients and botanicals that will help your body to relax for a better night’s sleep.

Sleep NutriPowder includes lemon balm, theanine, hops, and magnesium to reduce stress, support relaxation and mental and physical wellbeing, and help to maintain healthy sleep.

The last thing you want to do at the end of a hard day is to make a complicated smoothie with 20 different ingredients. With that in mind, here’s a smoothie that can support blood sugar levels, whilst keeping it simple, light on the stomach, yet delicious!

Simply add the following ingredients together in a blender, blitz, serve and enjoy!

•          60g frozen cherries

•          1 level teaspoon cacao powder

•          1 level teaspoon of cashew butter

•          150ml almond milk

•          1 level teaspoon of Sleep NutriPowder

Cherries form the base of this recipe, Sleep NutriPowder also provides Montmorency and Acerola cherries which are rich sources of antioxidants, including vitamin C, carotenoids, flavonoids and anthocyanins, which contribute to normal cognitive function and have been used to aid sleep. They are a great source of carbohydrates, which may help the synthesis of melatonin, our sleep hormone, and help create a naturally sweet flavor, which compliments that malty, savoury taste from the hops. 

If we ever needed an excuse to add in a bit of ‘chocolateness, cacao powder is great because of its magnesium content. Magnesium offers so many incredible benefits, contributing to normal functioning of the nervous system and normal psychological function which is beneficial for a calming sleep. 

This recipe also includes almond milk and cashew butter which naturally contains the amino acid tryptophan, a precursor for our sleep hormone, melatonin. The creaminess of these two together, combined with the richness of cacao and subtle sweetness of the cherries, gives it that comforting, indulgent feeling we all want at the end of a long day, making it the ideal drink to help drift off and enjoy a wonderful night’s sleep! 

Enjoy the smoothie after dinner for a sweet treat and to help you relax in the evening, or up to 1 hour before bed.

The transition into the menopause typically affects women in their 40s and 50s although it can happen earlier or later.  It affects each woman uniquely, with no way to predict when it may start.

During menopause, a woman's body goes through many hormonal changes, which can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Mood changes
• Vaginal dryness
• Sleep disturbances
• Decreased sex drive
• Urinary problems
• Joint pain and stiffness
• Memory problems

Making certain lifestyle changes can help manage menopause symptoms, such as:

• Regular exercise: Exercise can help relieve hot flashes and mood changes.
• Healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Stress reduction techniques: Practicing stress reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can help manage mood changes and difficulty sleeping.
• Certain supplements can help to provide the essential nutrients needed to support your health during this time.

Sleep disturbances - The menopause can affect how well you sleep. There are sleep aids and supplements designed to promote quality sleep and to help tackle this symptom.

Mood changes – Hormones fluctuate a lot during this time and this can cause low mood. Vitamin B supplements and vitamin D supplements can help to support your mood.

Weak Bones - Loss of bone density can happen more rapidly after menopause, with increased risk of osteoporosis. A supplement that includes bone supporting vitamins is important during this time.

Night Sweats & Hot Flashes - Waking up in a hot sweat is one of the many symptoms that can be experienced during this stage of womanhood. Research suggests that vitamin E benefits menopausal women by offering relief from hot flashes.

Problems with memory and concentration - Menopause supplements with vitamin B and vitamin D promote healthy nerve function and encourage concentration.

There are specifically tailored supplements available that include vitamins, minerals and herbal formulations to support your health during menopause.

A word about Magnesium & Zinc

Magnesium - The night can be uncomfortable, due to hot flashes and some people find it difficult to get to sleep or to stay asleep. Magnesium is often used as a natural sleep aid, as it is involved in many biological processes that are important for sleep, such as regulating the production of the sleep hormone melatonin and helping to relax the muscles.

In addition to magnesium supplements, there are other natural sleep remedies that may be helpful, such as practicing good sleep hygiene, establishing a regular sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine or large meals before bedtime and creating a relaxing sleep environment.

Magnesium also supports bone density, so it is worth considering incorporating a magnesium supplement into your daily routine or using transdermal magnesium.

Zinc - Zinc is an essential mineral that is important for many bodily functions, including immune system function, wound healing, and the synthesis of DNA and proteins. Zinc is naturally found in a variety of foods, including meat, seafood, and legumes. However, some people may not get enough zinc in their diets, and may choose to take zinc supplements. Zinc also benefits the body by supporting hormone regulation and this mineral is involved in the production of many hormones including estrogen and progesterone.

You should consult with your healthcare provider if you are concerned about your menopause or any symptoms that you are experiencing. Also before taking supplements, especially if you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications.