Karin's Deli and Health Foods

Vega Products Now At Karin's

If you have not heard about or tried the superb line of products from VEGA, then be sure to come on in to Karin's Deli & Health Foods to see what they are all about and try them for yourself. You will not be disappointed!

 
VEGA was formulated by Professional Ironman Triathlete and Bestselling Author Brendan Brazier to provide a plant-based whole food line of products for not only himself to use in his life and training, but to help others as well.

All of the VEGA products are able to:

• increase energy and stamina
• improve digestion and metabolism
• balance hormones and thyroid
• improve immune function
• control blood sugar
• improve the health of your bones, eyes, skin & cholesterol levels

As well, they are also clean, green and are completely VEGAN. They contain no corn, dairy, eggs, gluten, soy, sugar, wheat, yeast, artificial colors, flavors, preservatives or sweeteners. They are also GMO and pesticide-free!

So if that is what they do NOT contain, then what DO they contain?

One of the best products in the VEGA line, that I personally have used myself is the COMPLETE WHOLE FOOD OPTIMIZER. It is an all-in-one nutrient rich supplement that can be used by the entire family and includes such ingredients as:

• organic hemp protein
• yellow pea protein
• organic brown rice protein
• flax seed
• digestive enzymes
• mixed berry complex
• dairy-free probiotics
• 100% of your daily vitamin & mineral requirements

 
It comes in the four flavours of natural, vanilla chai, berry & chocolate and can be easily incorporated into a meal as a healthy replacement option.

Another excellent product by VEGA that I use a few times per week minimally, is VEGA SPORT PERFORMANCE OPTIMIZER. I use it before and during any strenuous workouts to provide long lasting energy, increase my endurance, replace lost electrolytes and reduce any muscle pain I may subsequently feel.

  
Ingredients in VEGA SPORT PERFORMANCE OPTIMIZER include:

• coconut oil - raw healthy fuel that provides instant energy
• green tea - contains antioxidants which improves immune system function, assists fat metabolism & is a natural caffeine source
• yerba mate - boosts mental & physical performance without jitters or dehydration
• kombucha - acts as a natural muscle relaxant and detoxifies liver to speed up recovery
• rhodiola extract - enhances recovery by normalizing heart rate and improving post workout protein synthesis
• ginger extract - reduces inflammation
• turmeric extract - increases circulation and reduces inflammation
• panax ginseng extract - strengthens immune and adrenal function, and boosts energy
• devil's claw extract - prevents inflammation and temporarily dulls pain receptors
• sodium & potassium citrate - electrolytes vital for optimal hydration

Knowing that I am fueling my body with ideal supplements that are both safe and good for me is the key to why I keep using these products again and again.

So come in to check these and other great VEGA products out that are now available at Karin's.

photo credits: VEGA

Keep Bugs Away Naturally

 

Warm weather has finally arrived! And with it, the sounds of summer:

 

BUZZZZZ.... SMACK!.... OUCH!.... BUZZZZZ.... SLAP!.... OUCH!....

 

Sound familiar?

 

Although just an annoyance to some, to others this can be quite a problem. Reactions to bug bites can range from itchy skin to severe rashes to scars left behind from the infections of scratching. Some people may even have allergic reactions to bites and this can become dangerous if air passages become blocked due to swelling.

 

Interesting facts about pesky insects:

• they are attracted to dark or bright floral designed clothing
• they also are drawn to sweet smelling perfume, hair products and sunscreen that are similar to, or contain flower scents
• consuming alcohol causes the skin to flush and blood vessels to dilate which then attract insects
• garlic is a natural deterent for bugs - so consume often or rub on skin...
• consuming nutritional yeast also deters insects from biting you
• high doses of vitamin C can help in combatting allergic reactions and subsequent symptoms of bug bites
• Citronella Oil is a natural insect repellent
• Aloe Vera Gel can be used to soothe bites after they occur

Finding bug repellents that are suitable and safe for ALL members of the family has been tough in the past - but not any longer!

 

Karin's Deli & Health Foods has many options for you to be able to keep bugs away naturally!

 

Broody Chick (which is a product line made right here in British Columbia) offers an effective repellent in a lotion form that is safe for adults and children called BUG BE GONE! With essential oils and moisturizing butters, you can be sure that your skin stays hydrated and healthy while keeping bugs off.

A local company based right here in Quesnel called Porcupine Designs, makes a great OUTDOOR SPRAY that includes the essential oils of:

• lemon
• lemon tea tree
• rose geranium
• lemongrass and
• peppermint

It may smell divine to us who are wearing it, but luckily it does not to those pesky insects!

 

LAFES also makes an excellent children's bug repellent as well that will be available shortly at Karin's. It is both chemical and DEET free!

 

 

So if the bugs at this time of year are bugging you, come on in to the store to see what many options are available for your use and get back to enjoying the warm summer days... bug FREE!

 

photo credits: Zaser, Kelby93, Broody Chick, Lafes

Natural Cures For Jet Lag

Are you planning a vacation abroad in the near future?

Are you worried about managing the jet lag that is most likely to occur should you be passing through multiple time zones?

Do you want to maximize your time away and feel your best during all of your vacation days?

 
The good news is that there are all natural ways to lessen and prevent jet lag symptoms.

You know the ones: fatigue, lethargy, irritability, digestive issues - all caused by disturbed sleep and eating patterns. All of which are heightened, depending on how many time zones you pass through during your travels.

The first step you can take is to drink plenty of water both before your flight, and during. Airplane humidity is low and can add to your body becoming dehydrated. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, and smoking. All of these can add to dehydration and reduce your body's coping functions.

In order to not add to any fatigue that may arise from the trip itself, be sure to be well rested before you fly. Keep stress and anxiety to a minimum and while on the flight itself, try to walk around the plane to keep your body's circulation system running optimally.

Try adjusting your meal schedules slightly before leaving for your trip to make the transition to the new time zone easier. Eat light fiber rich foods to aid digestion and once at your destination, follow the new eating schedule right away.

Nutritional supplements such as Vitamin C and B Complex can be taken before, during and after your trip to aid the nervous system in dealing with bodily stress. Melatonin can also be taken at night to help raise brain serotonin levels and allow the body to fall asleep.

If you suffer from nausea and upset stomach, peppermint and/or ginger tea can be drank to relieve the symptoms.

Prepare your body for your journey as much as you do your packing & sightseeing planning, and you will be rewarded with less time spent feeling tired and out of sorts and more time enjoying your vacation to it's fullest!

Happy travels!

 
 photo credits: clintonjeff, Harpagornis ~away~

Turn Your Bottled Water Into Sports Water With ElectroMIX

We need water to survive, plain and simple.

Our bodies are made up of approximately 70% water.  All of our body processes including nutrient transportation, digestion, circulation and elimination need water to perform optimally.  As well, most common ailments can be relieved by drinking more water.

 
Are you getting enough? 

Are you drinking the recommended daily amount of 8 glasses per day?

Are you a regular exerciser or are possibly training for an event this year that requires you to replenish your fluids more often?

Emergen-C now carries a dietary supplement that may aid you in replenishing minerals lost during exercise by way of electrolytes.

 
ElectroMIX combines calcium, magnesium, chromium and potassium in an easy to mix powder form.  It contains NO artificial ingredients or sugar like other name brand sports drinks and is also sodium and calorie free.

CALCIUM is a mineral known for ensuring strong bones and teeth, but it also helps muscle contraction and healthy hydration.

MAGNESIUM works with calcium to conduct nerve impulses and contract muscles.  It is also vital to healthy hydration as it increases enzymatic activity during metabolism that is required for the production of energy in the heart, brain and other organs.

CHROMIUM stabilizes blood sugar by regulating insulin.

POTASSIUM assists in regulating the water and acid-alkaline balance in the body and stimulates muscle contractions with calcium.  As an electrolyte, it sends electrochemical impulses that regulate the heartbeat.

Working together, these electrolytes in ElectroMIX will turn your water into a healthy drink that will not only replenish and hydrate your body, but add the necessary edge you may need to perform at your best!

photo credits: John K, Emergen-C 

Sprout It Up

Spring may officially be here, but the snow that still covers the ground may be discouraging.  Are you pumped and ready to start growing your own healthy greens?  Do you want to get a head start this growing season?

 
Karin's Deli & Health Foods carries packets of growing kits for GREEK OREGANO, SWEET BASIL, ALFALFA SPROUTS & ITALIAN PARSLEY so you can get some green 'a growing in your home to herald Spring!

The idea of sprouting your own greens, grains, seeds and legumes at home is nothing new.  It is quite easy in fact and the benefits are huge!

This FRESH and INEXPENSIVE method of growing your own green foods allows you to benefit from obtaining maximum nutrients and enzymes from the produce you are creating!

 
Karin's will be soon carrying SPROUTERS, but in the meantime you can try sprouting alfalfa seeds, buckwheat, clover, lentils, mung beans, oats, peas, sunflower seeds or any organic nut, seed or legume of your choice by following these simple steps:

• Clean and rinse your desired seeds in room temperature water.
• Put seeds in a clean glass jar and cover with water using a 4 to 1 ratio of water to seeds.
• Place cheesecloth over the opening of the jar and tighten with rubber band.
• Leave jar to soak seeds for 12 hours or overnight.
• Pour the water out through the cheesecloth and rinse the seeds once.
• Leaving jar upside down, place it angled inside another dish or larger cup so excess water can drain out.  Place in a dark space at room temperature.
• Rinse seeds through cheesecloth 2 or 3 times a day.
• Enjoy your delicious sprouts after 3 to 5 days, or when they have reached at least 1 to 1 1/2 inches in length and are ready to harvest!  To get chlorophyll from your sprouts, place in sunlight after germination.


photo credit: Pain Chaud

Spring Cleanse Your Liver

Spring is not only a time for giving your home a cleaning, but your body may benefit from one as well.

 
Last Fall I featured some of the great and efficient cleansing kits available at Karin's Deli & Health Foods that are excellent in assisting your body in it's natural seasonal organ cleansing.  You can read all about them HERE.

Today I would like to go more in depth in regards to one of the most important detoxification organs - the LIVER.

The liver carries out over five hundred different chemical functions.  The liver transforms vital nutrients absorbed by the food we eat into usable substances and any chemical that has not been able to be used by the body ends up in the liver for detoxification.  The liver cleans the blood by breaking down any remaining hormones, medications, alcohol and other toxins that remain, thus making them harmless and passing them along to the gall bladder or kidneys for elimination.

If our livers are over burdened to begin with by poor diet, excess toxic substance abuse, pesticide exposure, or medication overload, then we may be suffering from any number of the following symptoms:

• jaundice
• discomfort or pain under right rib cage
• appetite loss
• nausea
• bloating
• PMS

What can be done to rectify the situation if our livers are in need of a break? 

First and foremost, diet should be changed to relieve the pressure being put on this precious organ that is working so hard for us each and every day.  Eliminating alcohol, packaged & processed foods, and anything artificial is of the utmost importance.  Saturated fats and simple sugars should also be avoided including white flour products, white rice and pasta.  All of these items put excess pressure on the liver by overloading it with extra toxic substances that it has to then "clean out" for us.

Foods that are beneficial to the liver include:

• cold-pressed unrefined flax seed, walnut or pumpkin seed oil
• raw fruits & vegetables
• whole grains
• nuts & seeds
• beans
• peas
• potatoes
• brown rice
• rolled oats
• tofu
• artichokes
• apples
• rhubarb
• radishes
• onions & garlic

 
In addition to adding a formal liver cleanse to your routine each Spring and Fall, the following supplements can also be taken to support the liver in it's natural detoxification functioning:

• Vitamin B Complex
• Spirulina, wheatgrass or barley grass
• Folic Acid
• Sage, milk thistle or dandelion tea
• Critical Liver Support by Renew Life

 
So take the necessary steps to ensure that your liver is supported and best able to do it's job of converting harmful toxins into substances that can be safely eliminated from the body.

photo credits: DarkElfPhoto, Renew Life

All Natural Support For An Underactive Thyroid

In January I discussed an excellent product called AdrenaSense by Preferred Nutrition.  Their WomenSense products also include a supplement specifically designed to alleviate symptoms of an Underactive Thyroid or Hypothyroidism. 

This product is called ThyroSense.

 
An Underactive Thyroid is a common condition which causes the body's metabolic rate to slow down.  Symptoms can include:

• fatigue
• weight gain
• depressive symptoms
• feeling chilled
• hair loss
• muscle and joint aches
• constipation
• increased need for sleep

Hypothyroidism affects 20 to 25% of the female population and about 10% of males.

Many things can contribute to the underactivity of the thyroid gland.  Women are most commonly afflicted by this, particularly during times of hormonal stress such as during pregnancy or menopause.  Lack of iodine in one's diet, poor nutrition and lack of exercise are also contributing factors.

Vitamin D is a co-factor in thyroid hormone production, so many people living in northern areas may be susceptible to a thyroid imbalance if their bodies are not receiving adequate amounts of sunshine to naturally obtain the vitamin D their body requires. 

ThyroSense can help with your symptoms of Hypothyroidism with it's natural combination of essential nutrients proven to support proper hormone balance and the conversion of T4 to T3 (hormones that regulate metabolism). 

Any questions concerning this product or any other of the WomenSense products available at Karin's Deli & Health Foods can be answered by their helpful staff.  If you suspect that Hypothyroidism may be the cause of your symptoms, you should go to your health care practitioner for testing.  ThyroSense does not replace your prescription thyroid medication, but can help deal with the symptoms. 

Note:  ThyroSense is not to be used by those suffering from an overactive thyroid or Hyperthyroidism.

photo credit: pno

Treat UTI's Naturally

Many women, and some men suffer from UTI's (urinary tract infections) otherwise known as bladder infections.  Karin's Deli & Health Foods carries many all natural products that can not only stop symptoms in their tracks, but also prevent further infections from occurring.

Urinary Tract Infections are the result of bacteria that cause inflammation of the bladder's inner lining causing pain and frequent urges to urinate.  Bacteria that is present and beneficial to the lower bowels that enters the urethra is the most common cause of bladder infections.  Antibiotics, oral contraceptives, stress and poor diet also weaken the immune system, which can create an ideal situation for UTI's to occur.

Kidney infections can result from untreated bladder infections, so other signs to watch for are fever, lower back pain and/or blood in the urine.

 
A common and effective nutritional treatment used for UTI's is cranberry juice.  Cranberry juice is high in Vitamin C and antioxidants.  The components in the juice, specifically the tannins, inhibit the ability of bacteria to adhere to the mucus membrane of the bladder.  Also, cranberry juice acidifies the urine which reduces the growth of bacteria.

Karin's carries Pure Cranberry Juice without any added sweeteners as well as Cranberry Supplements in capsule form.

 
Cran UTI by AOR is a great cranberry supplement.  The concentrated extract in each capsule contains 630 mg of cranberry which is the equivalent of approximately 1 1/2 cups of cranberries!

 
 
Two other great products that are highly effective and beneficial to anyone suffering a urinary tract infection are Women's Multi Probiotic with CranRich by Natural Factors and Inno-Vite's DDS Ultra Cran.  Both contain the combination of probiotics and cranberry concentrate.  These products are designed to maintain normal intestinal and vaginal flora and help stop bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall causing a UTI to occur.

 
So come in to Karin's to try these products for yourself to prevent and cease the suffering of UTI's.

photo credits: Anne Davis, AOR, Natural Factors, Inno-Vite

SUKIN & NEOBIO Skincare

Last week's blog post featured Karin's Deli & Health Foods' all new 100% natural cosmetic line LAVERA.  This week I will be going into more detail about two new skincare lines available: SUKIN & NEOBIO.

SUKIN is an organic, all natural product line from Australia that uses the highest quality botanicals, essential oils and all natural ingredients to restore and protect the natural radiance and vitality of your skin.

 
Check out what this carbon neutral and vegan skincare contains in replace of the unhealthy ingredients that are commonly found in other brands:

• NO sodium lauryl sulphate or sodium laureth sulphate ~ instead SUKIN uses: coconut derived, non-drying Decyl Glucoside & Cocamidopropyl Betaine to remove oil, dirt & bacteria without removing the skin's natural oils  
• NO animal derivatives ~ as a vegan brand, no animal products or by-products are used including honey, lanolin or beeswax - instead SUKIN uses: natural plant & soy products such as shea butter & jojoba
• NO synthetic fragrances or artificial colours ~ instead SUKIN uses: Australian essential oils and natural color
• NO triethanolamine ~ instead SUKIN uses: natural emulsifiers such as vegetable derived surfactants, vegetable oils and vegetable based glycerin
• NO mineral oils ~ instead SUKIN uses: natural plant and seed based oils
• NO parabens ~ instead SUKIN uses: natural preservatives such as Citrus Paradisi (grapefruit seed extract) and Phenoxyethanol at very safe and low levels

 
With products ranging from cleansers, toners, moisturizers and deoderants,  to shampoos and conditioners - you can find all your much needed products in this all natural form from SUKIN.

 
NEOBIO is a German company that also offers an extensive choice of products that include facial, body and hair care.  In addition to making the environment a priority, NEOBIO ensures all products are 100% natural and of top quality.

Keeping specific skin requirements in mind, the following facial product lines are available:

• Cherry Blossom for dry skin ~ to revitalize & relax in the essence of springtime & beauty
• Cotton Bloom for sensitive skin ~ to protect, strengthen and promote the skin's own repair mechanism and combat aging
• Red Clover for mature skin ~ to stimulate collagen production, activate defence cells and protect against free radicals
• Magnolia for combination skin ~ to improve skin's natural balance & cleanse oily areas

 
NEOBIO's bodycare shower gels, lotions and deoderant sprays include the following fragrance creations:

• Chili and Orange 
  
  
• Chardonnay and Blackcurrant 
  
• Spicy Chocolate 
  
• Amarena and Vanilla 
  
• Sandalwood and Jasmine 
  
• Lemongrass and Coconut 
  

Wow!  With delicious and healthy scents such as these, how can you not make the switch to a product line such as NEOBIO that delights not only your senses but your overall health as well!

So please make the stop in to Karin's to check out these great new products!  The helpful staff will be able to answer any questions you may have about LAVERA, SUKIN & NEOBIO and try them out for yourself!

photo credits: Sukin, Neobio 

Put The CARE In Your Skincare

Every day we put thoughtful care into what we consume and put into our bodies by way of food.  We take vitamins & supplements that our bodies need.  We care for and clean our homes with natural and eco-friendly products.  We protect and boost our immune systems to withstand the circulating seasonal viruses.

AND... we slather on skincare products and apply cosmetics - each and EVERY DAY.

What did you apply to your skin today? 

Was it all natural and safe for both yourself and the environment?

Karin's Deli & Health Foods can now help you make the better choice when it comes to caring for your skin as well as you care for all the other areas in your life, with all natural and eco-friendly cosmetics and skincare!

 
Our skin is the largest organ of our body and the conduit by which outside elements can be absorbed in through our pores and into our beings.  Unfortunately most people neglect to think about this fact.  They mindlessly cover this precious part of their anatomy with any and all products without thinking about how the inside of their bodies are having to therefore absorb and process all of the possible chemicals found in any non-natural products.  This puts stress on how the body detoxifies and runs in general. 

If our bodies are busy protecting our insides from the products WE put on it each day, how can we expect them to do other more important jobs like fight illness, boost immunity, or provide us with the basic energy and vitality we need to perform our daily responsibilities? 

Our face may be the easel upon which we color and display how we want to look on the outside to others.  Was the makeup you put on this morning good for you?  Was it made from all natural and organic plant oils, herbs and extracts?  Was it made in a cruelty free environment?  Is it free from harmful substances such as parabens, petroleum & synthetic preservatives, emulsifiers & fragrances?

If your answer is no, then switching to an product line such as LAVERA may be the answer!

 
LAVERA products not only have the power to make you look beautiful on the outside, but feel good on the inside.  You will know that what you are putting on and subsequently in your body is good for you, and the glow that will inevitably show externally will be that of health and radiance!

Here is just a small sample of some of the great LAVERA organic product ingredients:

• Aloe Vera - to revitalize, hydrate, refresh & smooth
• Argan Oil - to smooth, firm & calm
• Beeswax - to protect, shield & nourish
• Blossom Butter - propietary blend of cocoa butter, shea butter, mallow, lime & rose to nourish and smooth
• Camelina Oil - rich in essential fatty acids to help keep skin healthy
• Jojoba Oil - nourishing vitamins & minerals to regenerate & smooth
• Magnesium - strengthening & nutrient rich mineral for the skin
• Rice Powder - absorbent & mattening
• Shorea Butter - velvety soft & light protection film
• Natural Fragrances - mixture of pure essential oils & distillation of flowers, leaves & roots

From foundation & concealer to lip gloss & lipstick - this line has all the items you may need to put together your most healthy and beautiful face.

 
 
So take the time to care for you skin as well as you care for all other areas of your life.  And consider the positive impact you can have on your body by adding a positive change to your daily routine by using great products such as these!  Come in to Karin's to have a look at these new products and try them out for yourself.

As well, stay tuned for next week's post where I will feature and discuss all natural skincare in more depth.  SUKIN and NEOBIO are two new lines available at Karin's and have all the items you may need for haircare, skincare and bodycare.  Cleansers, moisturizers, specialty treatments, deoderants, lotions - if you use it, they have it!  In a 100% natural form!

 

photo credits: MyTudut, Lavera, Neobio