Vital to Health and Wellness Blog

Welcome to the the Vital to Health and Wellness Blog!

The purpose of this blog is to talk about topics and news related to health and wellness for living a healthier and happier life.  The Vital to Health and Wellness blog will feature many different subjects such as managing arthritis and osteoporosis, nutritional supplements, exercise and nutrition.

There is so much information available on the internet today about health.  How do you even begin to sort through it all?  You can practically diagnose yourself before you go to the doctor!  We will try to discuss here, all in one location, up-to-date and relevant health information especially related to joint pain and arthritis, bone health and osteoporosis, having more energy and children's health.

But a little about myself first- I have been working in the supplement industry for over five years now and have enjoyed every minute of it.  Even before that I have always tried to live a healthy lifestyle and looked for alternative ways to get and stay healthy.  I am wife and a mother of two wonderful healthy children and I like to stay very active - hiking, volleyball, gardening, anything that gets me outdoors in the beautiful Northwest (when its not raining, of course).

We will also have experts contributing to our blog from time to time such as a certified nutritionist and a registered dietician to give us even more great information and tips on how to live a healthier lifestyle!  Stay tuned!

Please feel free to send me your comments or questions anytime.  I am very excited about reaching out to everyone and providing great information as well as learning from you!

Happy Easter and Happy Blogging!


Health Tip of the Week:  Go ahead and hunt those Easter Eggs too along with the kids or grandchildren - just remember to stretch well first!

 

Tips on How to Travel with Liquid Supplements

Tuesday, July 13, 2010 by Leslie Ellis

Getting ready to travel this summer? 

July is one of the most popular traveling months of the year.  Whether it is camping, road trips or flying to your favorite vacation destination, taking Liquid Supplements along can be challenging, but not impossible.  It is important to continue taking all of your supplements each and every day, even on vacation.  Unfortunately, taking a large bottle with you is not the most convenient; but can still be done with these tips:

  • For carry-ons, pour supplement into 3 oz containers and put in quart size bag that seals very well to prevent leakage.  Three ounces will last 3 days.
     
  • For checked luggage, put bottle in a gallon size ziploc bag to protect other items from possible leakage. 
     
  • Buy a new bottle of your chosen Liquid Supplement at your destination and give any leftovers to friends or relatives.  Be sure to check ahead of time to find locations to buy.
     
  • Ship bottle to location via UPS or mail so that it is there when you arrive.  You can even ship to a hotel and they will hold it until you check-in.
What do you do when you travel?  Do you still take all your supplements or do you just leave them at home and start again when you get back?  It is ok to do this for one or two days, but for a supplement such as the liquid glucosamine and chondroitin, skipping a few days can make your joints start feeling worse again.  That's the last thing you want when you are on vacation.

Next time you travel and want to bring liquid supplements along, try one of these tips and you can relax knowing you can still take them. 

Wellesse Supports the Susan G Komen Race for the Cure in Seattle

Thursday, June 10, 2010 by Leslie Ellis



The forecast may have been for grey skies and soggy conditions, but that didn't dampen the spirits of those participating in the Susan G Komen Race for the Cure event in Seattle on Sunday, June 6th, 2010. Varvid's Drew Graham was on hand, along with race sponsors Wellesse Premium Liquid Supplements, to take in the sights and sounds of family and friends doing their part to help support those who have battled with this disease.

One of the highlights for us was the Survivor Parade which was the culmination of the event. To watch hundreds of women (and a few men) who have fought or are currently fighting breast cancer, there to support one another... that was incredible.

We gave out hundreds of samples and coupons and talked to many people about the benefits of liquid supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin and calcium.  We look forward to doing it again next year.

Together we'll find the cure.

______________________

For more info about Susan G. Komen, or to donate, visit: http://www.komenpugetsound.org/

To find out more about Wellesse, visit: http://www.wellesse.com

More from Varvid, visit: http://www.varvid.com


Join Us for the Race for Cure in Seattle, June 6th

Wednesday, June 2, 2010 by Leslie Ellis
We are off to the races this Sunday, June 6th to participate in the Susan G Komen Race for the Cure at the Seattle Center.  Wellesse will have a booth in the fountain area to give out samples and coupons so be sure to stop by and see us!  We will have free samples of our liquid calcium supplement, glucosamine and chondroitin and vitamin D liquid supplement.  Two of us, myself included, will be running in the 5K race that morning in support.  It is such a great event and we are excited to be participating and supporting this wonderful cause.  Look for the Wellesse Banner at the finish line!

Nancy Brinker, founder of Susan G Komen for the Cure, has written a new book called "Promise Me", a powerful memoir about her sister who died of breast cancer and inspired the breast cancer movement. 

You can join the Promise Me for my Sister campaign  and send a free copy of the book to your sister or anyone else. 

"Promise Me is the story of how that vow launched Nancy on a thirty-year-long mission to change the way the world thought of, spoke of, and treated breast cancer. Brinker’s unparalleled success at turning $200 and a list of would-be donors into a movement that has saved the lives of millions of women was recognized by President Obama in August 2009, when he awarded Brinker the Presidential Medal of Freedom. "In the months after making that promise," the President noted, "Nancy lay awake at night wondering if one person can really make a difference. Nancy's life is the answer."

By sharing Promise Me with your own sister or your loved one, together you can join the global movement to end breast cancer."


 

A Great Why Liquid Supplements Story - Never Go Back to Tablets!

Thursday, May 20, 2010 by Leslie Ellis
"Swallowing Pills is Almost Impossible..."

This is a recent comment received when we asked people why they are now taking a liquid supplement  instead of tablets.  I thought this one was particularly inspiring and wanted to share it.

Judith stated: 

"Three-and-a-half years ago I was very ill. I had been taking glucosamine tablets but was so ill I could no longer swallow them, even if they were broken in half. My husband got me the liquid glucosamine and chondroitin and it went down so easy and tasted good. After a two month hospital stay, I was home and started taking the liquid again. I will never go back to the tablets. I have a tracheotomy and swallowing large pills is almost impossible without choking. The liquid helps my hips (and I know when I have been out of it for a while by how I feel) and goes down without choking which is vitally important with my condition."

Are you still taking tablets?  Many people have switched from tablets to the liquid glucosamine and chondroitin and found that not only is it easier to swallow but it works better too!

If you would like a free sample of the liquid glucosamine and chondroitin and a coupon, please call 800-232-4005.  Supplies are limited.

How CSA Inspired Our Company!

Monday, May 17, 2010 by Leslie Ellis
By Lori Mcknight, Guest Blogger
Lori is personally responsible for setting up our Workplace CSA - the first ever at Botanical Laboratories.  We were able to sign up for weekly or bi-weekly deliveries of local produce, fruit, bread, milk and even cheese and eggs.  I can't wait to get our first delivery! 

She wrote the following article that appeared in the May/June 2010 issue of "Growing Northwest" http://www.grownorthwest.com/2010/05/in-the-workplace-how-csa-inspired-one-local-company/

The term Workplace CSA was recently brought to my attention.  A Workplace CSA takes the traditional model of a CSA one step further by delivering a normal CSA farm share to a group drop off site, such as a workplace, for employees to conveniently pick up. The farmer can deliver them all at once to the workplace saving the employees from driving to the farm to pick them up each week. I had personally been involved in CSA’s before and understood the value to both the end consumer and the farmer. It is a win-win model supporting local agriculture.

The Workplace CSA concept excited me. We could provide healthy produce to our employees and support our local agriculture right here from our workplace. I set out with the goal to gain management support and a monetary contribution to start a program. With a management contribution we could make it even more cost effective for our employees to participate in this program – contributing to their health and wellness while supporting our company’s sustainability goals.

A brief PowerPoint proposal was created to present to our CEO for approval. Included in the proposal was a brief summary of what a Workplace CSA was, how it benefited our company and employees, how it supported our sustainability goals, and the potential cost for employees per week for the average 20 week CSA Share. The proposal closed with a call to action. The company was asked for 1. A company contribution to each share and 2. For the company to initially pay out the cost of shares and then allow employees to have the amount deducted from their paychecks during the time period of the CSA program. Our CEO liked the Workplace CSA concept and was on board to contribute to the program.  After we reviewed the cost per week for the most popular options, he offered up a very generous contribution to each share that an employee signed up for. The proposal went onto the management team for their support. We had approval for our first Workplace CSA program.

Sending out an all company email announcing our first Workplace CSA program supported by our company was an exciting moment. The program was explained and included an easy chart showing the cost per employee per week for the two most popular CSA share options; sign-up sheet and a date to turn it in were included. Immediately emails started coming in and my phone began to ring. The excitement level was contagious. I had coworkers thanking me over for getting this program going. I had managers thanking me for getting this going and for what they saw the excitement doing for their staff.  The company contribution helped motivate employees to get involved but on a deeper level it gave the employees pride that they worked for a company that cared about their health and supporting local agriculture.

We now have 50 percent of our employees signed up to receive Workplace CSA shares this year. As coordinator of this project I am excited to see what the season has to offer and hope we can offer this as a yearly program going forward. I am delighted to support our local Whatcom County Farms. I hope other business will follow and add the option of Workplace CSA’s. All it takes is one passionate person in an organization to do the legwork and get a program going.

Lori McKnight is PR Manager for Wellesse Liquid Nutritional Supplements, a Health & Wellness Enthusiast and passionate about sustainability and local community. Her free moments are spent enjoying the wonders of Whatcom County with her husband and daughter. Contact Lori at MomforHealth@gmail.com.

Thanks Lori!

Is it Time to Spring Clean Your Diet?

Wednesday, May 12, 2010 by Leslie Ellis

Spring is a great time to clean your diet.

Healthy FoodAs the weather gets nicer start taking advantage of seasonal spring food, especially the fruits and vegetables that are so tasty in the earlier part of the year. It’s easy to follow a healthy diet and get essential vitamins when you incorporate healthy and fresh spring food.

Seasonal fruits and vegetables are at optimal flavor and quality and they’re in abundance, so they cost less at the grocery store or farmer’s market. They are more nutritious because they don’t sit around. Local seasonal foods don’t have to travel as far or as long to our table as those grown in faraway locations.

Spring Foods
Which fruits and vegetables are seasonal? It can vary somewhat from region to region so check with your local farmers market or sign up for a CSA - a cooperative sharing agreement with local farmers to get produce on a regular basis through.
 

  1. Apricots. Although many people enjoy dried apricots, they are also delicious served fresh, especially when chopped in a salad.
     
  2. Artichoke.  They are one of the highest antioxidant vegetables around. To prepare an artichoke, tear off the outside leaves. Cut off the stems tips of the leaves and steam them in the microwave; serve drizzled with low-fat Italian dressing. Microwaving time depends on the amount. A large artichoke can take about 7 minutes, a small one only about 2 to 3 minutes.
     
  3. Broccoli. Broccoli is always a good choice because it’s loaded with antioxidants and is high in fiber. You can serve broccoli steamed or sautéed, or try it raw in salads or for a crunchy snack.  Broccoli is chocked full of essential vitamins and calcium for bone health.
     
  4. Asparagus. When visiting a grocery store in the spring, you’ll likely see displays of asparagus. For a delicious treat, fire up your grill: Spray asparagus spears with a little oil  and balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with salt, then grill them over a hot fire for about 5 minutes.
     
  5. Chives. Chives are one of the many seasonal herbs that are especially good in the spring.
     
  6. Fennel. Fennel is available in early spring and also in summer and fall. It has a slight licorice flavor and adds a unique taste and crunch to salads.
     
  7. Greens. Spring greens include Swiss chard, mustard greens, and collard greens. Use them in a salad for a wonderful springtime treat.  Don’t hide their natural flavors under a heavy dressing. Instead, mix a splash of lemon juice with a high-quality olive oil and a pinch of sea salt.
     
  8. Mango. Mangos are a wonderful treat just by themselves or mixed in a mango salsa and used on fish or chicken for extra flavor.
     
  9. Oranges. Oranges are always a refreshing treat and easy to pack along on hikes or other outdoor ventures.
     
  10. . Spinach. Try spinach in place of lettuce in sandwiches, on burgers or in salads, or sauté spinach to serve as a side dish or in pasta.
     
  11. . Strawberries. Strawberries are available through early summer, but may be sweetest in spring.  Try putting strawberries on a spinach salad with a sweet dressing for a delightful lunch.


Seasonal Food: Get as Much as You Can
Spring weather can make it pleasant to grill outdoors, one of the healthiest ways to prepare food. Grill leaner cuts of lamb with asparagus for a tasty springtime dinner.

No matter what time of year, you can incorporate lots of healthy fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet. Nutritionists recommend at least five servings each day, and spring’s bounty makes reaching this goal a snap. Fruits and vegetables that are nutritious and available year-round include potatoes, carrots, celery, bananas, and peppers, but you may want to shift your focus to seasonal foods when possible for the freshest taste.

Don't be afraid to try something new.  With access to online recipes, it is so easy to do a quick search on an ingredient and find your next favorite recipe. 


Happy Spring!



 



 

Exercise Routines Good for Joint Pain and Arthritis

Monday, April 26, 2010 by Leslie Ellis
Exercise when you have joint pain from arthritis? 

Yes!  One of the worst things you can do when you suffer from joint pain and stiffness due to arthritis is to not exercise.  Inactivity will only decrease your joint motion and flexibility further and weaken the muscles that support the joints.  Regular exercise and stretching can help keep your stiff joints more flexible and strong and give you more energy.  Check with your doctor first, though, before starting any new exercise program.

1.  Low-Impact Aerobics build endurance, strong bones and leg muscles.  This includes walking, dancing, stair climbing, or low-impact classes such as jazzercise.  Aim for 30 minutes per day.

2.  Resistance Exercises 2-3 times per week to improve muscle strength that support the joints.  Use elastic bands, free weights or machines.

3.  Swimming is a perfect exercise for anyone without putting extra stress on sore joints.  Start slowly in a warm pool and build up your time.

4.  Isometrics can be used if regular strength training is too painful.  Just tense your muscles and hold for a few seconds and release, repeat.

5.  Stretch to increase flexibility and restore joint motion.  Warm joints and muscles before stretching to prevent injuries. Read more

6.  Practice Yoga or Tai Chi for ultimate stretching and relaxing techniques.

7.  Avoid high-impact exercises such as running which puts extra stress on knee joints.


As part of your regular routine, remember to take a liquid glucosamine and chondroitin supplement.  Taken daily, it may greatly improve joint mobility and flexibility, making it even easier to exercise. 

Help Celebrate Earth Day 2010 on April 22

Wednesday, April 21, 2010 by Leslie Ellis
This is a post provided by my good friend and coworker, guest blogger, Lori Mcknight, PR Manager, wife and mom and a great spokesperson for sustainable living.

Earth Day 2010

by Lori McKnight (follow her on twitter @HealthNut08)

 

Over the last week I have been asking my friends what their plans are for Earth Day.  With all the talk of green, sustainability and the like it can seem overwhelming to most of us that just want to do something good for Earth Day. 

 

My advice is to do something small and just take the step.  There are many sites out there giving families ideas for Earth Week that are not only simple to do but fun for the family.  With any lifestyle change the way to make the changes ‘sustainable’ are to implement small changes on a consistent basis.  If everyone would walk one step closer to a greener lifestyle on a weekly or monthly basis our world would indeed be a better place for it.

Earth Day is a day designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth's environment held on April 22. It was founded by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson (D-Wisconsin) as an environmental teach-in in 1970 and is celebrated in many countries every year. The first Earth Day was in 1970. Earth Day is in spring in the Northern Hemisphere and autumn in the Southern Hemisphere.

Find something that fits for you, your family, and your interests.  There are so many great ideas on YouTube or by just by doing a quick search for Earth Day Activities. 

My personal favorite for this year is found from Biomimicry Institute called the Great TV Rebellion of 2010.  The campaign is asking for parents, kids, and educators to pledge to turn off their TV (and other electronic devices) for Earth Day 2010 and go outside and explore nature.  They have created a great workbook of ideas and a nature journal for tracking all explorations. 

The idea for the event is based on the song “The Great TV Rebellion,” written by Amy Martin and performed by Grammy Award winner Ani DiFranco and the Missoula Coyote Choir, a collection of children from Missoula, Montana.  The song can be found on the album Ask the Planet, a project of The Biomimicry Institute.

Take the pledge and then download The Great TV Rebellion Workbook and get outside and explore!

Thanks for the great post Lori!

The Vitamin D Solution, New Book by Expert Dr Holick

Wednesday, April 21, 2010 by Leslie Ellis
This is Dr. Holick's latest book on vitamin D and the one we are giving away here.  In this book Dr. Holick recommends Wellesse Liquid Vitamin D3 as a great product for anyone that does not like swallowing pills and for small children especially.  You can purchase this book now at www.Amazon.com.


'The Vitamin D Solution'

A 3-step strategy to cure our most common health-care problem

What do obesity, heart disease, depression, diabetes, and fibromyalgia have in common? The answer is vitamin D deficiency. More than 200 million Americans lack this essential vitamin and as a result suffer from a host of daily annoyances, chronic conditions, and even life-threatening illnesses. In the landmark book THE VITAMIN D SOLUTION: A 3-Step Strategy to Cure Our Most Common Health Problem (Penguin/Hudson Street Press; April 1, 2010) Dr. Michael F. Holick identifies the causes of vitamin D deficiency, outlines why it is essential to our health, and provides a 3-step program to attain optimal levels of Vitamin D in our bodies.

The leading expert worldwide, Dr. Holick has studied Vitamin D for more than 30 years. Through his research, we now know that every body cell has a receptor for vitamin D and it goes much further beyond bone health. Increasing levels of vitamin D can treat, prevent, and even reverse a remarkable number of daily ailments, from high blood pressure to back pain; lessen the symptoms of chronic conditions such as diabetes and arthritis; and actually prevent infectious diseases, including H1N1 and cancer. Dr. Holick also credits vitamin D with improving infertility, weight control, memory and mood.

Vitamin D is called the "Sunshine Vitamin" for a reason, but surprisingly to many, it is not actually a vitamin but a hormone – unique because it is made in the skin as a result of exposure to sunlight. It is also possible to receive vitamin D from certain foods like milk or mushrooms, the only item in the produce aisle to contain vitamin D. Dr. Holick also recommends supplements to ensure people have optimal levels of this crucial vitamin.

THE VITAMIN D SOLUTION combines cutting-edge research from around the world, an insightful historical perspective, and a simple plan for rebuilding and maintaining an optimal level of vitamin D which combines a sensible amount of sun exposure, vitamin D supplements and foods rich in vitamin D.

 

###

 

Michael F. Holick, M.D., Ph.D., is a professor of medicine, physiology and biophysics at Boston University Medical Center. Additionally a BUMC, Dr. Holick serves as the director of the General Clinical Research Unit, the Bone Health Clinic, and the Heliotherapy Light and Skin Research Center. A recipient of the prestigious Linus Paulding Institute Prize in health research and the DSM Nutrition Award, Dr. Holick has authored more than three hundred peer-reviewed research articles, coedited eleven books in academia, written two books for a general audience, and currently serves on the editorial board for a number of medical publications. Dr. Holick has been featured in numerous popular media, included The New York Times, Forbes, Time Magazine, Newsweek, Men's Health, and Scientific American. He lives in Massachusetts with his family.

To schedule an interview with Dr. Holick, please contact: Alexandra Ramstrum; Alexandra.ramstrum@gmail.com / 530-219-2045


Contact: Alexandra Ramstrum
alexandra.ramstrum@gmail.com
530-219-2045
Penguin Group USA


Source:  http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2010-04/pgu-tvd040110.php

 

"Liquid Supplements are Easier to Swallow and Faster Absorbing"

Tuesday, March 30, 2010 by Leslie Ellis
Recently we asked liquid supplement users why they take a liquid and how it has worked for them.  We received so many great responses here that I wanted to share a few on this blog post.

Krystal said "We love liquid supplements at our house.  They're so much more readily absorbed by your body (true!), and it's much easier to give a liquid supplement to a child than it is to give them a pill."

Terry commented, "Taking any kind of supplement or pill has always been hard for me. They always gets stuck and I start gagging on them. I really like to take liquid form because I believe the absorption is so much better. I talked to a plumber who finds so much supplement pills at the bottom of a toilet so that is just an example how hard it is to dissolve in your stomach. When I want to do an experiment with any pill, I drop it in a glass of water and see how long it takes to dissolve."


Liquid supplements  are so much easier to take than pills, especially for those that have a difficult time swallowing them, such as children and older adults.  Plus, the liquid goes straight into the blood stream without having to be broken down in the digestive system.  This allows your body to absorb much more of the nutrient than from a tablet.

Here is another great comment from Charlotte who has had weight loss surgery:

"Since having gastric bypass surgery in October, I have been unable to take many of the capsule vitamins and supplements that I had been taking. I was so relieved to find your Glucosamine and Vitamin D3 formulas to replace my capsules. As you mention, the flavor is so nice, I just take it by itself after my protein drink in the morning. Thank you for wonderful products. I wish you'd make more." (we are working on it!)

Those that have had any kind of weight loss surgery may only be able to take a liquid supplement to get their much needed nutrients, especially calcium and vitamin D.  Read more about why here.

The liquid glucosamine and chondroitin is also great for dogs with arthritis and can really make a difference in their quality of life:

Donna says "I have arthritis and so does my dog. I discovered that when I take the liquid supplement of glucosamine it seems to work quicker. My dog began to limp and I found out she has arthritis. I got the approval of her vet to give her glucosamine. She refused the pills but when I put the liquid in a dish, she drank it up. Now when I ask her, "Do you want your glucosamine, she comes running." We are now both back to taking walks without a limp."

From Pam "
I take the liquid Glucosamine & Chondroitin in the morning, then pour some over my dog's food, too. There's no problem trying to get him to swallow pills and it's really helping his bad hips and joints. Since Rocket needs it everyday, it also reminds me to take it myself. We both feel much better taking the fast-absorbing liquid!"

Here is more info on giving it to your dog.

These are real comments from real people.  It is so wonderful to hear these great stories from those who take liquid supplements.  Thank you to everyone that had such great comments!  And if you haven't started taking them yet - start now!





New York Times Interview with Dr. Holick on His New Book "The Vitamin D Solution"

Monday, March 22, 2010 by Leslie Ellis
Dr. Holick's new book, The Vitamin D Solution, is due for release on April 1st, 2010. 


Questions for Dr. Michael Holick
Dr. Sunshine
Interview by DEBORAH SOLOMON
Published: March 15, 2010

In your new book, “The Vitamin D Solution,” you argue that we have become a culture of sun phobes who fear exposure to direct sunlight and slather on too much sunscreen, which you believe has caused a national epidemic of vitamin D deficiency.
Dermatologists have gone so far as to recommend that you should never walk outside without a sunscreen. The American Academy of Dermatology still has that recommendation that you should never be exposed to one ray of direct sunlight without sun protection.

Read complete interview

Lift Your Mood with Vitamin D This Winter!

Thursday, March 4, 2010 by Leslie Ellis

Washington, Mar 4 (ANI): Taking a dose of Vitamin D everyday could help people to better combat the long winter, according to researchers at Loyola University Chicago Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing (MNSON).

The nutrient lifts mood during cold weather months when days are short and more time is spent indoors.

“Vitamin D deficiency continues to be a problem despite the nutrient’s widely reported health benefits. Chicago winters compound this issue when more people spend time away from sunlight, which is a natural source of vitamin D,” said Dr. Sue Penckofer.

Diet alone may not be sufficient to manage vitamin D levels. A combination of adequate dietary intake of vitamin D, exposure to sunlight, and treatment with vitamin D2 or D3 supplements can decrease the risk of certain health concerns.

The preferred range in the body is 30 – 60 ng/mL of 25(OH) vitamin D.

The researchers are planning to take vitamin D research a step further by evaluating whether weekly vitamin D supplements improve blood sugar control and mood in women with diabetes.

Depression is linked with increased insulin resistance, so people with diabetes have a greater risk for the disease than those without depression.

Women also tend to have greater rates of depression and poorer blood sugar control than men with diabetes.

“There is evidence to suggest that vitamin D supplementation may decrease insulin resistance. If we can stabilize insulin levels, we may be able to simply and cost effectively improve blood sugar control and reduce symptoms of depression for these women,” said Penckofer.

Loyola is currently enrolling women in this clinical trial. In order to enter the study, they must be 18 to 70 years of age, have stable type 2 diabetes, signs of depression and no other major medical illness.

Eighty women with type 2 diabetes and signs of depression will be given a weekly dose of vitamin D (50,000 IU) for a period of six months.

Study participants will be evaluated at three points during this time.

“Vitamin D has widespread benefits for our health and certain chronic diseases in particular. Our research may shed greater light on the role this nutrient plays in managing two conditions that impact millions of Americans. If proven to be successful, vitamin D may an important addition to care for diabetes and depression,” said Penckofer. (ANI)

Source: http://buzz7.com/health-science/vitamin-d-lifts-mood-during-winters.html


Take a liquid vitamin D supplement that's perfect for the whole family - easy to swallow and fast absorbing.  Kids love the taste! 
 

Dr. Weil Raises His Daily Vitamin D Recommendation to 2000 IU Per Day

Monday, February 8, 2010 by Leslie Ellis

Why you need more Vitamin D...

"We have known for many years that we need vitamin D to facilitate calcium absorption and promote bone mineralization. But newer research has shown that we also need it for protection against a number of serious diseases. In recent years, scientists have discovered that it may help to prevent several cancers, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disorders, psoriasis, diabetes, psychosis, and respiratory infections including colds and flu.

...Don't be concerned that a vitamin d supplement of 2,000 IU will give you too much. With exposure to sunlight in the summer, the body can generate between 10,000 IU and 20,000 IU of vitamin D per hour with no ill effects. In addition, no adverse effects have been seen with supplemental vitamin D intakes up to 10,000 IU daily."   Read rest of article here

Source:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/andrew-weil-md/new-recommendation-why-yo_b_446580.html


What do you think?  How much vitamin D are you currently taking?  Be sure to have your blood levels checked first to find out how much you may need to take. 

21 Great Fitness Tips for the New Year

Wednesday, January 27, 2010 by Leslie Ellis

Previously I posted tips from our Healthy Resolutions Twitter Giveaway on How to Stay Motivated and Healthy Eating Tips.

This post features 21 great tips we received on exercising and getting fit for the new year.

1. jillyrh:  I wear my workout clothes to bed so I can exercise first thing in the morning when I wake up. Old comfy ones, that is!

2. cloud10277:  I try to make exercise fun by incorporating it into playing with my son. This helps me stick to my resolutions!

3. dizzylady1012:  Plenty of exercise and healthy food!

4. nutmeg237:  incorporate a friend to excersise with....great motivation

5. buttmuffin: I keep a food and exercise diary online, it really opens your eyes when you log in every single thing you eat

6. caitlin_melody: My #tip is to start slow by giving up soda or walking daily until you get into a routine

7. tannawings:  I make a set time for a workout no matter what. When it comes round, nothing interferes!

8. cheesecubes523:  I take small steps at a time until I'm comfortable with one, then I add on more to challenge myself.

9. tuinimary: I keep track how often and the amount of time I exercise in a journal

10. pinkmartinipls:  free belly dancing lessons, more fun than I expected :)

11. janettwokay:  A #tip on how to stick to your healthy #resolutions is to try & get outdoors more. Fresh air & sunshine does wonders for the mind.

12. jettaway75:  workout with a friend so you both stick to it

13. dizzylady1012:  I do my exercises first thing in the morning. That way its done for the day.

14. jillyrh: Start slowly and be patient to avoid burnout on working out

15. jenni104: I use the time I volunteer to walk I use my feet as transportation tthere, so I help myself while helping others!

16. Riffkah:  listen to really upbeat music while working out, it makes you go harder, better, faster, and you get stronge

17. jenni104:  If the weather is too nasty to walk outside #resolution I walk inside walking in place but for a bit longer time.

18. 20. BJGardella: What helps me with following through is wearing my pedometer every single day. It keeps me aware of my goals

19. joiningthefun: My #tip to exercise is to workout first thing in the am when my dog wakes me up at 4am to eat. I just stay up and workout!

20.  lefty22:  My #tip to stick to my new years #resolution is to exercise in the morning before any other things come up!

21.  madly59: I will have a friend walk the stairs with me, instead of riding the hospital elevators! I feel the "pull" :)

 
Thank you to everyone for all the great fitness tips!  Be sure to follow us on Twitter.com/wellesse for more great health and wellness information and fun giveaways.

This Stuff (Glucosamine and Chondroitin) Really Works!

Tuesday, January 26, 2010 by Leslie Ellis
I wanted to share a wonderful recent review of the liquid glucosamine and chondroitin supplement that was posted on Costco.com.

Pros: 
we feel so great, the taste is just like cherry cough syrup, we love it.

"I am a pretty hefty senior woman. My knees got so bad that they scheduled surgery on both my knees. I put it off and put it off as I didnt want to go under anesthesia. My nurse practitioner wanted me to try some of this for my bad knees and told me where I could get it.I went to Costco and bought a bottle of it. Meanwhile My fiance who's a senior as well, tried it along with me and we were shocked at the great results we got through one bottle. Needless to say, Of course we have been using it ever since. My knees are mended and no longer need surgery and my fiance's elbows and shoulders have made it possible to wait until his retirement age, to quit work. Amazing! Thanks to you. I have no more knee pain and stiffness!!"

We have heard so many great stories like this where the glucosamine and chondroitin have especially helped with knee joint health and other joint pain.  Many of them have tried pills or tablets without much success and once they switched to the liquid supplement, it worked much better.  So why not try it for yourself? Go here!

Vitamin D May Lower Colon Cancer Risk - New Study

Friday, January 22, 2010 by Leslie Ellis
Study Shows Higher Blood Levels of Vitamin D Linked to Reduced Risk of Colorectal Cancer

"Researchers in Europe have found that people with abundant levels of vitamin D -- the so-called sunshine vitamin -- have a much lower risk of colon cancer. The findings add to a growing body of evidence that suggest vitamin D may have the power to help prevent colon cancer and possibly even improve survival in those who have the disease. 

"Our findings suggest that the potential cancer risk benefits of higher vitamin D levels should be balanced with caution for the toxic potential," they write in today's online version of BMJ. "Before any public health recommendations can be made for vitamin D supplementation, new randomized trials are needed to test the hypothesis that increases in [blood levels of vitamin D] are effective in reducing colorectal cancer risk without inducing serious adverse events."

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in men and women in the U.S., according to the American Cancer Society."

Source:By Kelli Miller Stacy
WebMD Health News
http://www.webmd.com/colorectal-cancer/news/20100121/vitamin-d-may-lower-colon-cancer-risk Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD


Liquid Vitamin D Supplement
However, many experts are recommending at least 1000 IU of vitamin D supplements each day and 2000 IU if you live in an area where there is no sun, or you do not go outside very much or wear sunscreen when you do.

Try a liquid vitamin D supplement that's easy to swallow and fast absorbing.  Great for the whole family too.

15 Healthy Eating Tips to Help Reach Your Goals

Monday, January 18, 2010 by Leslie Ellis

Previously I posted 15 Tips on How to Stay Motivated  from our recent Twitter Product Giveaway.  The following are 15 more great tips from our Twitter followers on how to eat healthier.

1. jenniferkateab: Take liquid calcium & vitamin d every day, & keep treats bite-size only once per day. It’s easier not to get off track.

2. bettycd: You must change your shopping habits before you can keep a resolution to eat better, to eat healthier. Purchase good choices

3. letsgolakers086:  rather than eating 3 large meals, I plan on eating a lot more smaller meals throughout the day

4. cdmtx65:  I have one of my "Fat" Pictures hanging on the Fridge Door - just the Thought of seeing it keeps me Miles away from the fridge

5. erunuevo:  I am already planning out my veggie and herb garden so I have lots of healthy organic foods to eat!

6. nutmeg237:  Stick to your resolutions by keeping track of what you eat, or daily excersise....you will more likely keep it up

7. raven_1884:  I try not buy a lot of sweets anymore...just some fruits and veggies as snacks... really helps when you get tempted by fats

8. Doodle741: My tip is to start small - stop drinking soda and drink water & milk!

9. DinaJ:  My main issue is not drinking enough water every day. I’ve been doing much better the past week and keeping track

10. babydest: for all the people who know they don’t drink enough water...start drinking more water, something I need to do

11. tannawings: If you walk/work/workout outside make sure you drink water- you actually dehydrate quicker in cold weather!

12. DinaJ:  I make my own "100 calorie packs" I use snack sized sandwich bags and measure out 100 calorie servings of healthy snacks.

13. LaurenEgier: Keep your healthy resolutions with these brownies http://tinyurl.com/yhww5fk ! I made them and they are very tasty! Enjoy!

14. jillyrh: I fill up a 2 ltr bottle with water (9 glasses) and drink from that.. Then I’m sure I get my 8 glasses of water each day

15. purplelover04: eat hot peppers to help get your 8 glass of water in a day


So what's your tip on eating healthier or staying motivated?  Share with us!
 

15 Tips to Stay Motivated to Reach This Year's Health Goals- What's Yours?

Thursday, January 14, 2010 by Leslie Ellis

These are 15 of the "Healthy New Year's Resolution Tips" we recently received in our Twitter promotion.  We received so many tips that I am dividing them up into 20 tips each.  All of these tips are very good and helpful in getting healthier this year!  Thank you to everyone who submitted their tips.

These tips are all about ways you can stay motivated in reaching those New Year's Resolutions you promised yourself you were going to actually do this year!

Ways to Stay Motivated:

1. crussell6481: Stick to your resolutions by writing them down and referring to them each morning

2. kitkat234: I kept all of my smaller size jeans, and try them on from time to time, I went down a size in the last month!

3. zanvia: My tip for sticking to a losing weight resolution is to put your scale in the kitchen. By the fridge! :)

4. geekbabe: I keep a dream board of my life goals, I read it when Im tempted to break resolutions.

5. MissingLynxx: A good way for me to stick to my resolutions is to have a good friend and keep each other in check :)

6. js22222222: put calendar on your fridge, with your new years resolution printed at the top,and check off each day you have kept resolution!

7. pinkmartinipls: Set reminders on your computer/calendar for your daily goals. Each day strive to achieve at least one :)

8. rklarsson: workout with a friend

9. FLSouthernSaver: Find a buddy and share your goals. Keep each other accountable!

10. SweetKickz: Ive found it best to tell your friends your goals. Make them public & you have more motivation to stick to them

11. Nankani: my tips for sticking to your New Year’s resolutions is to simply really look at myself in the mirror that will help me stay on it

12. happishopr:  having an accountability partner helps me stick to my New Year resolutions

13. sfcontests: I try my best to evaluate my goals every morning and break it down into steps I can manage!

14. jpq123: Ive learned that if you diet and exercise with a friend you have to be very careful about which friend you pick.

15. xriyah: Take baby steps towards your resolutions so you dont burn out! Slow & steady & keep focused. 


These are just a few of the tips we received - more tips to come on how to eat healthier and staying positive.  Be sure to check back for more great tips.

Be sure to follow us on www.twitter.com/wellesse  

Vitamin D levels not enough for winter: Study

Thursday, January 14, 2010 by Leslie Ellis

source: http://www.nutraingredients.com/Product-Categories/Vitamins-premixes/Vitamin-D-levels-not-enough-for-winter-Study

Current recommended intake for vitamin D during winter months and need to be at increased by five, says a new study from California.

Recommended intakes for people with darker skins should be increased to a whopping 2100 to 3100 International Units per day all year-round, up from the current adequate intakes set at 5 micrograms per day (200 International Units).

Researchers from University of California, Davis report their findings in the Journal of Nutrition. The study, led by Laura Hill, represents the latest in a long line of studies calling for increases in the recommended levels for vitamin D.

Concerns are growing over the health implications of living with insufficient and deficient vitamin D levels. A recent study from China reported that 94 per cent of people aged between 50 and 70 enrolled in the study were vitamin D deficient or insufficient, which may increase their risk of metabolic syndrome.

...While our bodies do manufacture vitamin D on exposure to sunshine, the levels in some northern countries are so weak during the winter months that our body makes no vitamin D at all, meaning that dietary supplements and fortified foods are seen by many as the best way to boost intakes of vitamin D.


Read rest of article here http://www.nutraingredients.com/Product-Categories/Vitamins-premixes/Vitamin-D-levels-not-enough-for-winter-Study


 

Source: Journal of Nutrition
Published online ahead of print, doi: 10.3945/jn.109.115253
"Vitamin D Intake Needed to Maintain Target Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Concentrations in Participants with Low Sun Exposure and Dark Skin Pigmentation Is Substantially Higher Than Current Recommendations"

Authors: L.M. Hall, M.G. Kimlin, P.A. Aronov, B.D. Hammock, J.R. Slusser, L.R. Woodhouse, C.B. Stephensen