Natural Health Practice

With over 40 years of experience as a nutritionist and women’s health expert, Dr Marilyn Glenville PhD has helped thousands of women understand their bodies, balance their hormones, and feel their best naturally.

A Friendly Guide to Women’s Health

Dr Marilyn Glenville isn’t just a doctor of nutrition - she’s someone who understands the challenges women face at every stage of life. From the rollercoaster of fertility and PMS to the changes of perimenopause and menopause, she offers practical advice that fits into real life. Her approach is simple but powerful: good nutrition, lifestyle choices, and the right supplements can make a real difference.

Through her books, workshops, and clinical work, Dr Marilyn Glenville has made complex health topics easy to understand. She encourages women to listen to their bodies, recognise the signals of hormonal shifts, and take proactive steps toward wellbeing.

Supplements That Support Women Naturally

She has developed a range of Natural Health Practice (NHP) supplements specifically for women, addressing the unique needs of each stage of life. Some of the ways they can help include:

• Balancing Hormones: Gentle, natural support for PMS, perimenopause, and menopause, helping with mood, sleep, and energy.
• Supporting Fertility: Essential vitamins and minerals designed to help optimize reproductive health.
• Support General Wellbeing: Nutrients to increase energy, immunity, and long-term vitality.

Each supplement reflects her decades of research and clinical experience, making them a trusted choice for women who want to support their health naturally.

Feeling Your Best, Every Day

Women’s bodies are constantly changing, and that can feel overwhelming at times. But with guidance from Dr Marilyn Glenville, nutrition and supplements become tools you can use to feel stronger, more energetic, and more in tune with your body.

Taking care of yourself doesn’t have to be complicated, sometimes, it’s as simple as eating well, moving your body, and using targeted support when needed. With this approach, women can take control of their health with confidence and ease.

Discover Dr Marilyn Glenville’s supplements and start supporting your health, naturally, at every stage of life.

The New Year is the perfect time to give your gut a little TLC. After weeks of rich food, less sleep, and more stress, your digestive system might be asking for a gentle reset. But good gut health doesn’t have to mean restriction - it’s about nourishment and balance.

Your Gut Deserves a Clean Slate

Your gut does a lot more than just digest food. It helps your body absorb nutrients, plays a role in supporting immunity, and can even influence how energised and balanced you feel day to day. When your digestion is sluggish or out of sync, you might notice it -  perhaps through bloating, irregularity, or general fatigue.

Supporting your gut doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple, consistent habits can make a big difference to how your digestive system functions and how you feel overall.

Simple Daily Habits That Help

1. Start your day with a warm drink
Try warm water and lemon or maybe a herbal tea. It’s a gentle way to hydrate first thing in the morning and can help wake up your digestive system before breakfast.

2. Add fermented foods
Foods like sauerkraut, kefir, and kimchi naturally contain live cultures that contribute to a healthy mix of bacteria in the gut. A small spoonful with meals a few times a week is often enough to start with.

3. Eat slowly and mindfully
Digestion begins in the mouth - chewing food well and taking your time can improve how nutrients are broken down and absorbed. Taking your time with each bite allows your digestive system to work efficiently and limits excess air intake, which can sometimes contribute to bloating. Plus, eating in a calmer state supports more comfortable digestion.

4. Move your body every day
Gentle daily movement like walking, stretching, or yoga can help keep your digestive system active. It also supports circulation and general wellbeing - a win for your whole body.

Give Your Microbiome a Little Love

Your gut microbiome - the community of bacteria that lives in your digestive tract - thrives on variety and fibre. Prebiotic foods help feed these beneficial bacteria. You’ll find them in everyday foods like bananas, oats, garlic, onions, leeks, and asparagus.

Some people find it helpful to include gut-supporting supplements, such as probiotics or digestive enzymes, as part of their routine.

Consider Professional Support

If you’ve been experiencing ongoing digestive discomfort or are curious about your gut health, consider speaking with a qualified practitioner. A gut health consultation can help identify what your body might need — whether that’s dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, or targeted nutritional support.

Working with a professional means you can personalise your plan rather than trying to guess what might help.

Vitamin D, often called the “sunshine vitamin,” is essential for maintaining overall health and wellbeing. Produced naturally when the skin is exposed to sunlight, Vitamin D supports many vital processes in the body. Yet despite its importance, Vitamin D deficiency is surprisingly common worldwide. Let’s explore why this nutrient is so powerful, where it comes from, and how to ensure you’re getting enough.

1. Bone Health

• Calcium Absorption: Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for strong bones. Without enough Vitamin D, children can develop rickets, and adults may face osteoporosis or fragile bones.
• Bone Density: By improving calcium absorption, Vitamin D strengthens bones, reduces fracture risks, and supports long-term skeletal health.

2. Immune System Support

• Defence Against Illness: Vitamin D activates T cells, which detect and fight off harmful bacteria and viruses.
• Inflammation Control: Adequate levels can reduce inflammation, helping to manage autoimmune conditions and lower the risk of infections.

3. Mental Health & Mood

• Mood Regulation: Low Vitamin D levels are linked to depression and mood disorders such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Adequate intake may improve mood and emotional wellbeing.
• Cognitive Function: Studies suggest Vitamin D supports brain health and may help lower the risk of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

4. Heart & Muscle Health

• Cardiovascular Benefits: Vitamin D plays a role in regulating blood pressure and may help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
• Muscle Strength: Sufficient levels improve strength and coordination, reducing the risk of falls in older adults. It may also ease muscle pain and weakness.

5. Digestive Health

• Gut Microbiome: Vitamin D supports a healthy gut environment by regulating inflammation and influencing microbiome balance, which contributes to better digestive health.

6. Risk Factors for Deficiency

Certain groups are more prone to Vitamin D deficiency, including:

• People who spend little time outdoors
• Those living in northern climates with limited sunlight
• People with darker skin tones (as melanin reduces Vitamin D production)
• Older adults, whose skin is less efficient at producing Vitamin D
• Individuals with certain health conditions affecting absorption (e.g., Crohn’s, celiac disease)

7. How Vitamin D Works with Other Nutrients

• Magnesium: Essential for converting Vitamin D into its active form. Without enough magnesium, Vitamin D supplementation may be less effective.
• Vitamin K2: Works alongside Vitamin D to ensure calcium is deposited in bones rather than soft tissues or arteries.

8. Sources of Vitamin D

• Sunlight: The best natural source—just 10–30 minutes of sunlight exposure a few times a week (depending on skin type, location, and season) is usually enough.
• Diet: Foods like fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), egg yolks, fortified dairy, and mushrooms provide additional Vitamin D.
• Supplements: For those with limited sun exposure or restricted diets, supplements can be an effective way to maintain healthy levels.

9. Signs of Deficiency

Common symptoms include fatigue, bone pain, frequent infections, and muscle weakness. Severe deficiency can lead to conditions like osteomalacia (soft bones) or rickets.

10. Seasonal & Lifestyle Considerations

• Winter Months: In many regions, the sun is not strong enough to produce Vitamin D in the skin during winter.
• Indoor Lifestyle: Office jobs, online work, and reduced outdoor activity have increased deficiency rates worldwide.
• Sunscreen Use: While sunscreen is essential for preventing skin cancer, it can also reduce Vitamin D production. Balancing safe sun exposure is key.

11. Regular Check-Ups

A simple blood test can measure Vitamin D levels. If you’re at risk of deficiency, your healthcare provider can recommend safe supplementation tailored to your needs.

Vitamin D is vital for strong bones, a healthy immune system, stable mood, and overall wellbeing. By getting regular sunlight, eating Vitamin D-rich foods, or using supplements when needed, you can protect your health and vitality.

In a world that’s constantly evolving, it’s essential for women to take charge of their health in a way that aligns with their body’s natural rhythms and needs. One powerful way to do this is by embracing natural nutrition. Nourishing your body with whole foods, mindful eating practices, and holistic health approaches can truly enhance your well-being, improve energy levels, and prevent many common health challenges.

Here’s how you can empower your health through the wisdom of natural nutrition:

1. Understand Your Body's Unique Needs

Each woman’s body has different requirements depending on age, hormonal cycles, lifestyle, and health goals. Understanding what your body craves — and what it needs — is the first step in making informed decisions about your nutrition.

For instance, during certain stages of life such as pregnancy, menopause, or menstruation, nutrient needs may change. A diet rich in iron, folate, vitamin D, and healthy fats can help support reproductive health, bone strength, and overall energy. Consulting with a holistic nutritionist or health professional can guide you in addressing specific needs.

2. Incorporate Whole, Unprocessed Foods

Natural nutrition focuses on nutrient-dense whole foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. These foods are full of vitamins, minerals, fibre, and antioxidants that help the body thrive. Incorporating a variety of colourful foods into your meals provides a wide range of nutrients that support everything from immune function to skin health.

3. Balance Hormones Naturally

Hormonal balance plays a huge role in a woman’s health. Nutrition can be an incredible tool in balancing hormones naturally. For instance, including omega-3 rich foods like flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts can help with inflammation, while foods high in magnesium such as leafy greens and pumpkin seeds can support calmness and relaxation.

Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, kale, and cauliflower help with oestrogen metabolism, and consuming plenty of fibre helps the body eliminate excess hormones. Integrating these foods into your diet can lead to better energy levels, improved mood, and a more stable menstrual cycle.

4. Gut Health is Key

A healthy gut is the foundation of overall well-being, affecting everything from digestion to mental health. A well-balanced microbiome is essential for nutrient absorption, immune system function, and even mood regulation.

To promote gut health, focus on fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, and yogurt, which are rich in probiotics. Also, eat fibre-rich foods to support healthy digestion and keep things running smoothly. A diet full of diverse plant foods promotes a healthy gut flora that can have a significant positive impact on digestion and overall vitality.

5. Stay Hydrated and Nourished

Water is an often overlooked but crucial part of nutrition. Staying hydrated keeps your cells functioning properly, aids digestion, supports healthy skin, and ensures your body is detoxifying naturally. Aim to drink at least 8 cups of water daily and increase intake if you’re physically active.

Adding hydrating foods like cucumbers, melons, and leafy greens to your diet can help maintain hydration levels, too. When you’re hydrated and nourished, you’ll feel more energized and focused throughout the day.

6. Mindful Eating for Mental Clarity

Natural nutrition isn’t just about what you eat — it’s also about how you eat. Practicing mindful eating can significantly improve your relationship with food. Slow down and pay attention to how different foods make you feel. This practice helps you recognise when you're truly hungry versus eating out of stress or habit, which can have a positive impact on emotional well-being.

Taking the time to enjoy meals without distractions also promotes better digestion, as the body can focus on processing food rather than rushing through meals.

7. Power of Superfoods for Women

Certain foods are particularly beneficial for women's health. Examples include:

• Berries: Packed with antioxidants, berries support skin health, cognitive function, and heart health.
• Avocados: High in healthy fats and fibre, they help balance hormones and maintain healthy skin.
• Leafy Greens: Loaded with vitamins and minerals, they support bone health and hormone regulation.
• Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, it helps reduce the risk of chronic diseases and supports joint health.
• Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are full of omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, and protein, which are essential for heart and brain health.

Incorporating these superfoods into your diet regularly can give you an extra boost of nutrients that support vitality and wellness.

Supplements Formulated by Dr Marilyn Glenville

In the world of natural health, Dr. Marilyn Glenville PhD stands out as a leading authority in the field of women's wellness. With over 30 years of experience as a nutritionist and a strong focus on using natural methods to support health, Dr. Glenville has earned a reputation for offering practical, evidence-based advice on everything from hormonal imbalances to menopause, fertility, and beyond.

Her approach blends modern science with traditional wisdom, empowering women to take control of their health through diet, lifestyle changes, and natural therapies.

Using her many years of practical experience and expertise Dr Glenville has formulated a range of supplements and herbs using only the best quality ingredients available and the most important nutrients scientifically known to help women. Each ingredient is included at its highest effective dose to help you achieve and maintain best results.

In addition to a healthy diet and lifestyle, certain heart-healthy supplements may offer benefits to support cardiovascular health.

Here are some supplements that are commonly recommended for heart health:

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil or Algal Oil)

• Benefits: Omega-3s, particularly EPA and DHA, have been shown to reduce inflammation, lower triglyceride levels, and improve heart health. They may also help lower blood pressure.
• Sources: Fish oil, algae-based supplements (for vegetarians), flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts.

2. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

• Benefits: CoQ10 is an antioxidant that helps with energy production in cells and may improve blood vessel health, reduce oxidative stress, and support heart function. It is especially beneficial for individuals taking statin medications, as statins can deplete CoQ10 levels.
• Sources: CoQ10 is naturally produced by the body, but supplementation can be helpful, particularly in older adults as CoQ10 levels can naturally decline with age.

3. Magnesium

• Benefits: Magnesium plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy blood pressure, regulating heart rhythm, and supporting proper muscle function, including the heart. Studies have suggested that magnesium deficiency is linked to an increased risk of coronary artery calcification (buildup of calcium in the arteries).
• Sources: Magnesium-rich foods like leafy greens, almonds, and bananas, or magnesium supplements.

4. Vitamin D

• Benefits: Some studies have found a link between low levels of vitamin D and an increased risk of heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes.
• Sources: Fatty Fish, eggs, fortified foods, exposure to sunlight. If you have difficulty getting enough vitamin D from sun exposure or food, supplements can be an effective option.

5. Garlic Extract

• Benefits: Garlic has been shown to reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and improve overall cardiovascular health. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that support heart function.
• Sources: Garlic supplements or raw garlic in food.

6. Plant Sterols

• Benefits: Plant sterols (also known as phytosterols) are naturally occurring compounds found in plants that have a structure similar to cholesterol. Because of this similarity, plant sterols can help reduce cholesterol levels by blocking the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines.
• Sources: Supplements or foods like vegetables and fruits, vegetable oils, nuts, cereals, and seeds

7. Fiber (Psyllium, Glucomannan, or Flaxseed)

• Benefits: Soluble fiber helps lower LDL cholesterol and promotes heart health by reducing blood sugar and triglyceride levels. It also aids in maintaining a healthy weight and supports healthy digestion.
• Sources: Psyllium husk, glucomannan (from konjac root), or ground flaxseed.

8. Hawthorn Berry

• Benefits: Hawthorn is a herb traditionally used to support heart health. Hawthorn has been shown to have a blood pressure-lowering effect in some studies.
• Sources: Hawthorn berry extract or teas.

9. L-Carnitine

• Benefits: L-carnitine helps convert fat into energy and may improve exercise performance, blood flow, and lipid profile. It has been studied for its potential benefits in heart disease.
• Sources: L-carnitine supplements, or foods like red meat, poultry and dairy.

10. Turmeric (Curcumin)

• Benefits: Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It may help reduce inflammation and improve heart health by lowering cholesterol levels, improving endothelial function, and supporting blood pressure regulation.
• Sources: Curcumin supplements or turmeric root (when used in cooking, absorption may be enhanced with black pepper).

Important Considerations:

• Quality: Not all supplements are created equal. Choose high-quality supplements from reputable brands to ensure purity and potency.
• Dosage: Always follow recommended dosages, as excessive intake of certain supplements can have adverse effects.
• Consultation: If you have pre-existing conditions or are on medications (especially blood thinners, blood pressure meds, or statins), always talk to your healthcare provider before starting new supplements to avoid interactions.

While these supplements can complement a heart-healthy lifestyle, they should not replace good nutrition, exercise, and other heart-healthy habits. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before adding supplements to your routine, as they can interact with medications or conditions.