Now that the holidays are officially over and we are getting back to the grind, we might find it’s not so easy to get back to our healthy routines. Maybe it’s the sluggish liver we’re feeling now, the poor sleeping pattern we’ve adopted, or the extra few pounds that make everything feel a little tighter. Here are some ways to get the New Year off to an amazing start and get you feeling fresh and healthy in no time!
Detoxify your Body
The liver is an essential organ because it is the main organ that processes and helps eliminate toxins from the body. From rich and fatty foods to alcohol and sugary treats, it’s hard for even the most fastidious of us to avoid one (or a dozen!) unhealthy products during the holidays.
One nutrient for healthy, gentle, and safe liver support is the amino acid N-acetyl L-cysteine (NAC). NAC contains cysteine, which is one of the components of glutathione- our master antioxidant. Glutathione is necessary for Phase II detoxification to convert metabolized toxins into water-soluble compounds that can be removed from the body.
Two herbs that are important for liver health include dandelion root and artichoke leaf. Dandelion contains enzyme-like substances that stimulate the function of larger organs, such as the liver and kidneys. It enhances the flow of bile, improving such conditions as liver congestion, bile duct inflammation, hepatitis, and gallstones. Artichoke protects the liver from the poisonous effects of toxins and is able to prevent liver damage from a wide range of toxins, including those in holiday indulgences.
Naturally manage weight through blood sugar balance
If you gained a few extra pounds over the holidays, or if you are starting a weight loss regimen in the new year, soluble fibre is a must! Soluble fibre blends have been shown to assist in weight loss in several ways. By providing a sense of fullness (so you eat less), reducing the glycemic index of any food, stabilizing blood sugar to eliminate cravings, and restoring insulin sensitivity, it is a necessity to any weight loss plan. It is safe, can be taken long-term, and provides cardiovascular and digestive benefits as well.
Another tool to stabilize blood sugar and help with weight management is Berberine. Garnering a lot of attention as “nature’s Ozempic”, it is an alkaloid found in several plants that, like the pharmaceutical, activates an enzyme called AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). By doing this, it helps the body use glucose more efficiently, stimulating its conversion into energy that fuels your day.
L-carnitine is an amino acid essential for energy production in the muscles, heart, and liver. It promotes healthy body composition by aiding the conversion of fat into energy. L-carnitine has been shown to promote fat loss by directing fatty acids into the mitochondria, our cells' energy generators. L-carnitine helps burn fat for energy and reduce fat stores. Taking supplemental L-carnitine lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease, boosts mental energy, lessens fatigue, improves athletic performance, and shortens exercise recovery time.
The Importance of Protein and Exercise
Exercise has many health benefits and is important for overall health. Aerobic exercise burns calories while you are active, and strength training builds muscle mass. Building muscle raises metabolism so you burn energy, even while at rest. Be sure to choose an activity that you enjoy, set realistic goals, and think long-term!
Add to your exercise regimen enough protein to ensure you build muscle mass during your workouts. Studies indicate that whey protein may boost weight loss via several mechanisms. Consuming whey before meals may help limit hunger and food intake, as it promotes the release of stomach hormones that help you feel full. Studies show taking whey protein allows people to avoid muscle loss and maintain lean muscle mass while losing weight.
Whey protein concentrate contains protein sub-fractions that boost immunity, making it a great choice for overall health. Choose a whey protein that is free of lactose, hormones and antibiotics, and that is a blend of both concentrate and isolate to reap the benefits of weight and immune support.
Thank you for your support and for reading the Brix Blog in 2023! We hope they have provided some insight into being healthy, preventing disease, and creating a sense of wellness. From all of us at Brix Wellness, we wish you all a fabulous year full of health, laughter, and joy!