Few of us in North Europe get enough Vitamin D naturally, which is why it's a key component in both of our foundational powdered blends, Peri-Boost - for your late 30s onwards, and Meno-Boost - for everyone who is postmenopause and looking to nourish their bodies in Part 2!
Sunshine can deliver a generous dose of Vitamin D, supporting bone health by promoting calcium absorption. It can also help boost our immune system, with inadequate levels linked to an increased rate of infection, cancer, and mortality rate after surgery.
Research also shows that the sun may play a role in regulating hormones and sleep patterns. It affects the melatonin circadian rhythm, which in turn, helps to induce sleep, if we let it. And - with good sleep comes the ability to manage our reaction to stress. Nature is very clever at chain reactions that deliver the nourishment we need.
There is also evidence that the lift in mood that takes place is a result of a biochemical shift; the ultraviolet light actually releases endorphins as well as serotonin.
Beauty from within
How we nourish our bodies is felt and seen on our skin too. And, research shows that, if a new skin concern appears in midlife, it’s very likely that hormone fluctuations and also inflammation are playing a part. Focusing on what we put on our plate, and how herbs and botanicals can further soothe our system, balance our blood sugar, and nourish our gut microbiota is key.
There are a few clever plants that target gut and blood sugar in all our blends. But Peri-Boost is particularly skin-focused, as it’s often in our early 40s that new issues come to light:
Moldavian Dragonhead: this wonderfully named herb is actually a member of the mint family and has been used in traditional medicine for generations to address a whole host of concerns. We work with a patented extract developed to harness the plant’s collagen-stimulating properties. Clinical studies of Dracobelle Nu are really exciting; pointing to a marked increase in skin density and elasticity in peer reviewed studies. You can read more about the research on our science pages HERE and find the ingredient, in therapeutic dosage levels in our multi-award winning Peri-Boost.
Cacao: Clinical studies point to cacao’s potential in boosting cognitive function, improving mood, reducing anxiety and also, critically, supporting our skin’s hydration. Cacao’s prebiotic properties can also improve the diversity of our gut microbiota which can help soothe inflammation and therefore repair our skin too. We blend it into Peri-Boost for its full spectrum impact, only working with cacao that has not been through the Dutch process, ensuring you get the full nutritional benefit of this beautiful fruit.
Moringa: Moringa has a unique biochemical profile that makes it incredibly valuable to us in midlife for many reasons. It is often used by naturopaths to support healthy blood sugar levels and cholesterol. But its nutritional profile also supports skin and hair, with preliminary in vitro data showing that moringa may have anti-collagenase activity which can slow our collagen decline naturally. Find it in its wholefood form in Peri-Boost for maximum bioavailability.
Love the skin you’re in.
So, this weekend, get out and enjoy a shot of good health. Take time to think about what you’re putting on your plate. And finally, take care of what you’re applying topically!
Many of us aren’t aware of the fact that our skin actually produces less melatonin as we age, which means we are more prone to burning and skin damage from sun exposure.
If you’re still wary of a daily SPF, with memories of gloopy, chalky solutions that clock pores and create masks, look to the brands shaking up the category.
Justine Masters, founder of Justine Masters Skincare, and a favourite guest in our Meno-Well Programme, recommends Evy technology, Helio Care, and Super Goop. If you try them, let us know what you think!
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