Posted in Stress

Cortisol is a glucocorticoid hormone synthesised from cholesterol in the cortex of the adrenal gland. Cortisol has a variety of functions but is primarily known for its role in the body’s stress response.  Cortisol also participates in the inflammatory response and regulation of metabolism. Glucocorticoids, such as cortisol, bind to both glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) and mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs). GRs exist in almost all tissues in the human body. MRs have a more restrict...

Secretory IgA (sIgA) is a biomarker that may reflect the impact of stress on the immune system as well as the resilience of the immune response. Secretory IgA is synthesized by activated B cells along mucosal membranes in the oral cavity, nasal passages, ocular surfaces, gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, and the genitourinary tract. Since these mucosal surfaces are exposed to the outside world, sIgA is considered to be an important part of the first line of immune defence against th...

Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is a water-soluble molecule that metabolises into cofactors for more than 100 enzymes in the human body. Vitamin B6 transforms in the body into an active coenzyme pyridoxal 5-phosphate, known commonly as either PLP or P5P.            PLP is involved in gluconeogenesis, glycogenolysis, lipid metabolism, and the synthesis of amino acids, carbohydrates, proteins, and neurotransmitters. Deficiencies in vitamin B6 have been shown to present ...

When we think of supplements for strength and muscle building, modern options like creatine monohydrate, whey protein, or BCAAs likely come to mind. But research continuously shows that Ashwagandha also known as Withania or Winter Cherry, a herbal supplement with ancient roots, deserves equal attention from today's performance and strength building communities.  Ashwagandha is a herbal supplement that has been used in Ayurvedic naturopathic medicine for centuries. It's made...

Fatigue is one of the most common side effects of living with cancer, and it can have a big impact, both physically and emotionally. Between 70 to 100 percent of patients suffer cancer-related fatigue, which for many, presents as an unprecedented wave of exhaustion. No matter how much rest you get, you can still be left feeling weak in energy and listless, as well as mentally and emotionally zapped. Even simple things like preparing a meal or using the TV remote can loom as massive feats, ...

Your thoughts and emotions can affect your health. Emotions that are freely experienced and expressed without judgment or attachment tend to flow fluidly without impacting our health. On the other hand, repressed emotions (especially fearful or negative ones) can zap mental energy, negatively affect the body, and lead to health problems.. It's important to recognize our thoughts and emotions and be aware of the effect they have, not only on each other, but also on our bodies, behavi...