Frequently Asked Questions
Nutraceuticals are defined as components and constituents that are derived from nature and that have a medicinal benefit for humans. They are also often referred to as superfoods. Because most, if not all, nutraceuticals are free from man-made additives, there are often very few or no side effects and the health benefits can be very wide spread and impactful. In many cases, nutraceuticals have been used by humans for millennia and can be credited for many of our accomplishments in modern healthcare and science.
Because nutraceuticals are mostly plants, they can be found throughout the world, usually growing in their natural environments. An example of this is Lions Mane Mushrooms, a species of mushroom known for its positive effects on mental focus and retention. This particular species is mostly found in Asia and The America's, growing on saw dust and felled tree trunks. Whereas Valerian is most commonly found along parts of Asia and Europe.
Being components from nature, nutraceuticals as a whole are safe. They generally have no man-made additives ie chemicals and therefore the risk they pose to humans is most often very minimal if at all. That being said, as with anything, some people may find they have varied responses to the same nutraceutical. It is important to do the research and know your body prior to taking any particular nutraceutical and talking to your doctor first is always suggested.
Nutraceuticals can be used to treat many different ailments. Unlike many traditional medicines though, nutraceuticals often have very little or no side effects, meaning that they can be more tolerable by our bodies. Traditional medicine, though, in many cases is quite advanced and has its place in modern medicine. It cannot be recommended that the use of one or the other (or simultaneously) because everyone is different however, with some research and consultation with your medical specialist, you will be able to decide on what is best and most practical and safe for you.
Superfoods are essentially any natural food products, mostly plants, that are highly dense in nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Because they are so densely packed with nutrients, we as humans are able to limit our energy exertion through the digestive process by eating these rather than less nutrient dense foods. This was integral to our survival once as energy efficiency was the key driver in survival.
All superfoods are important because of the nourishment they provide to your body however, it may be best to focus on individual superfoods initially to target certain ailments or deficiencies that may affect you personally. Reishi Mushroom extract for example possesses incredible anti-inflammatory and antiallergic properties. Studies have shown that these properties could be very valuable in reducing or even mitigating the risks of such diseases as asthma, arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases which are correlated with inflammation.
Lions Mane Mushrooms are an excellent and natural superfood to aid in supporting healthy weight loss. It is able to achieve this by positively impacting and regulating sleep and mood which are two major factors associated with weight gain.
When you take different superfoods or nutraceuticals is largely dependant on what it is and your personal circumstances. For example, some foods may be great when taken correctly however, may cause issues when over used ie. diarrhoea. It is always recommended that you pay attention to dosage recommendations and always seek medical advice if you are unsure.