Monthly Archives: April 2024

Chocolate Hazelnut Banana Nut Smoothie

Chocolate Banana Nut Smoothie

Let’s delve into why this Chocolate Banana Nut Smoothie stands out in terms of nutrition. It’s meticulously crafted to provide a harmonious blend of essential nutrients, epitomising not just gustatory delight but also a discerning commitment to overall wellbeing.

Nutrient-Rich Ingredients

🍌 Banana: Its natural sweetness not only gratifies the palate but also furnishes a significant dose of potassium for electrolyte balance.

🥜 Nut Butter: Enriches the smoothie with healthy fats while bestowing a sophisticated nutty undertone.

🌾 Rolled Oats & Chia Seed: These fortify the smoothie’s fibre content and augment its protein profile, fostering a sense of satiety and aiding in muscle recuperation.

🥬 Spinach: Elevates its nutritional value by imparting a plethora of vitamins and minerals.

🥜 Fruits & Nuts: Raisins, currants, orange zest, and nuts contribute vitamins, minerals, and fibre, promoting heart health, immune function, and satiety.

🍫 elénzia PROTEIN™: This sachet elevates this smoothie to an ideal choice for post-workout replenishment or a nourishing breakfast option, ensuring sustained vitality and muscle repair.


Full Recipe

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vera doing yoga wellness

In Conversation With Vera Duse

Vera is a dedicated health professional with a multifaceted background. Beginning her career as a nurse, she soon recognised the limitations of traditional Western medicine in preventing diseases and promoting overall wellbeing. Driven by her passion for holistic health, she pursued training as a Nutritional Therapist and Yoga teacher. Vera believes in addressing the root causes of illness through personalised, naturopathic approaches that integrate nutrition, lifestyle, and mindfulness. Drawing from her nursing experience, she emphasises the profound impact of lifestyle choices on health outcomes. Through her practise, Vera aims to empower individuals to take charge of their health, offering tailored guidance and Hatha yoga classes designed to foster self-awareness and vitality. Her ultimate mission is to accompany others on a journey toward enhanced well-being and a fulfilling life.

As someone deeply engaged in holistic health practises, how do you personally define “healthy ageing”, and what role does nutrition play in this journey?

People often tend to blame their age for their poor health or their “aches and pains” but the truth is that healthy ageing is possible, and to me, it means being able to maintain the maximum level of functionality of our body and mind over the years. Health does not only mean the absence of disease but to have abundant vitality and feeling “in love” with life at any age.

This can be achieved, by following a healthy lifestyle that incorporates holistic practices like yoga and meditation, looking after our gut health, avoiding too much stress, exercising in moderation, prioritising sleep and doing more of what we love. Most importantly, nutrition plays a huge role in healthy ageing as by changing what you eat every day we can literally “bio-hack” our metabolism and achieve maximum health, versus driving disease through eating inflammatory foods.

One example of this is the impact that an anti-inflammatory, low-carb diet can have on keeping us free from disease or even reversing typical “age-related” illnesses like diabetes, osteoarthritis, or high blood pressure.

How has your expertise in yoga and nutrition intersected in supporting individuals through the phases of menstruation and menopause, promoting both physical and emotional well-being?

Our menstrual cycle is at the centre of women’s health and often ignore it. Each phase of the menstrual cycle (follicular, ovulation, luteal and menstruation) has a peculiar set of nutritional and movement-related needs that can allow us to navigate the cycle a lot better, avoiding the typical pre-menstrual symptoms and achieving physical and emotional wellbeing. One example of that is – did you know that women need 200 extra calories a day during the two weeks before menstruation? Ensuring to add that extra bit of nutrition every day (1 handful of mixed nuts, one small sweet potato) can really help with managing the sugar cravings that are so characteristic of the luteal phase and avoid unhealthy sugar binges.

Another example is how much more flexible we are in the second phase of the cycle because of the effects of progesterone on the ligaments. Knowing this allows me to advise my yoga students during that phase to not stretch “too deep” and avoid injuries.

Menopause has a totally different set of needs as well and it’s important to know where we are in our reproductive life phase so that we can act accordingly and prevent any health problems arising. Gut issues seem to be increasingly common nowadays.

What are some common signs or symptoms that indicate someone may be experiencing gut imbalances and how do you incorporate mindfulness and relaxation techniques into your practice to help alleviate these?

Any digestive problem is an indication that something might be wrong with your gut. Digestion should be easy and painless, and we should be able to tolerate a vast variety of foods without developing any gastrointestinal issues. When we experience bloating, erratic bowel habits, cramps or stomach burning, it’s a sign that our gut flora might be out of balance, that we might not be absorbing food very well and perhaps we have low stomach acid or inflammation in our gut.

Changing our diet is the first step in the process towards healing but it is not all – our nervous system also plays a huge part in allowing us to digest food properly! I often find that my clients are stuck in the “fight or flight” sympathetic part of the nervous system due to excessive amounts of stress, overworking culture or the presence of past trauma. When we are in fight or flight, the brain sends a message to the gut to “turn off” digestion as we don’t need it to survive. Over time, this leads to several digestive problems and is the reason why I often incorporate exercises to return clients back into the “rest and digest” parasympathetic state – the part of our nervous system where we feel safe enough to perform non-survival functions like secreting stomach acid and beginning digestion.

I often advise people to practice diaphragmatic breathing, yoga, or other relaxation techniques daily so that they can shift their “fight or flight” state to a “rest and digest” state and allow gut healing to take
place. Digestion and our nervous system are so interconnected that without relaxation, any dietary advice alone won’t work.

Could you share some favourite recipes or dietary tips that you recommend to your clients for supporting hormonal balance and their gut?

One of the most important things when it comes to supporting our hormones, is to begin the day with a sugar-balancing breakfast rich in fat, protein and fibre. I have come up with this delicious sugar-balancing smoothie when looking for a recipe that would keep me energised throughout the morning and at the same time feed my gut microbiome and be easy to digest.

The yoghurt in this smoothie acts as a source of fat, slowing down the absorption of sugar and nourishing the hormones as well as replenishing the gut flora with the anti-inflammatory “good” bacteria Lactobacillus. Bananas contain a type of fibre called inulin that feeds those same bacteria, keeping your gut healthy. The berries are rich in antioxidants and the walnuts are a good source of protein. The seeds can be changed following the “seed cycling” method if you are still menstruating: flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds in the follicular phase and sesame and sunflower in the luteal phase. Each set of seeds contains the nutrients we need to nourish that particular phase of our cycle.

For 2 people:
2 bananas
1 big handful of walnuts
1 tbsp of flaxseeds
1 tsp of chia seeds (optional)
3 tbsp of full-fat natural yogurt
½ glass of plant milk of your choice
1 handful of blueberries/raspberries

And, for women who are going through the menopause, the elénzia MENOPAUSE™: AM menopause sachets are an incredibly nutritious addition to give sustenance in a busy morning and reduce some of the difficult symptoms that might appear in that phase, such as hot flushes.

In your experience, what are some common misconceptions or myths about menopause and healthy
ageing that you often encounter, and how do you address them through your work as a nutritional therapist, yoga teacher, and menstruality mentor?

Often people think that going through the menopause is going to be this incredibly unpleasant experience and they feel scared about it. The same misconceptions can be applied to ageing as often people think that illness is going to be unavoidable in our old age. As a holistic health practitioner, I know that this is not true and that when you put yourself at the forefront of your worries and pay attention to your diet, movement, mental wellbeing and your cycle, there is no reason why menopause and ageing should be a difficult experience. Of course, this requires shifting your priorities at the same time.

As women, we are compassion experts, but we are not very good at self-compassion. If we understand the importance of taking care of ourselves to avoid illness, then we can change things around us and make arrangements to make this journey very easy. It all starts with putting ourselves first.

Finally, what advice do you have for individuals looking to improve their gut health and overall well-being through a holistic approach encompassing yoga, nutrition, and menstrual awareness?

To support your gut health and overall well-being, one of the most important things (nutritionally speaking) is to keep processed food and sugar to a minimum. These foods often drive inflammation – which eventually speeds up ageing. Follow a diet that is prevalently plant-based but with plenty of oily fish for its wonderful anti-inflammatory properties, Plenty of leafy greens, and maintain a good variety of vegetables and fruit — eating all the colours of the rainbow.

I would advise everyone to regularly practice a discipline that allows them to rebalance their nervous system and spend more time in that “rest and digest” state as opposed to “fight and flight” such as many different types of yoga, breathing exercises and meditation. We need to bring some form of yoga into our lives to ensure healthy ageing – and not just for the benefit of the mind but also to maintain a well-functioning body.

In terms of being in tune with our menstrual cycle, practising menstrual cycle awareness is the first step: being aware of which phase of the cycle you are in and scheduling your life around it. For example, we might feel more social around ovulation and we may want to retreat during menstruation – remember that, mark your cycle on your diary and know when to say yes to social events and when to decline and opt for a snuggly night in. These simple changes can have a huge impact on our well-being.

When approaching menopause, you almost need a full clear-out of your schedule. In that case, making others around you, especially your family, aware of what is going on for you, would allow you to be fully supported to spend as much time for yourself as you need. I believe that healthy ageing is possible when we put ourselves and our health first!

Where to find Vera:

Official Website | Instagram

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stress and health sickness

How Stress Could Be Making You Sick

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, stress seems to be an unavoidable companion for many of us. From juggling work responsibilities to managing family commitments and everything in between, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But what if I told you that stress might be doing more than just making you feel frazzled? What if it’s actually impacting your health, especially us mature women?

Our bodies undergo various changes as we age, and our ability to cope with stress may diminish. What once seemed like manageable stressors in our younger years can now take a toll on our overall wellbeing. This is because stress doesn’t just affect our mental state; it can also manifest physically, leading to a range of health issues.

Understanding the Stress Response

Before delving into how stress impacts health, let’s take a moment to understand how the body responds to stress. When faced with a stressful situation, the body goes into “fight or flight” mode. This triggers a cascade of physiological responses, including the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.

In the short term, this stress response can be helpful, preparing us to deal with the immediate threat. However, when stress becomes chronic or ongoing, these constant surges of stress hormones can wreak havoc on our health.

The Impact of Chronic Stress on Health

Chronic stress can contribute to a host of health problems, both physical and mental. Here are some ways in which stress may be making you sick and how we can help tackle them:

Weakened Immune System

Chronic stress has been linked to a weakened immune system, making you more susceptible to infections and illnesses. As we age, maintaining a robust immune system becomes increasingly important for warding off diseases.

What to use: elénzia IMMUNITY™ for targeted immune support.

Digestive Problems

Stress can put a strain on your digestive system, leading to issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux, and ulcers. These problems can be particularly troublesome for mature women, as digestive issues tend to become more common with age.

What to use: elénzia PROTEIN™ for a clean, easily digestible source of protein.

Hormonal Imbalance

Stress can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones in the body, exacerbating symptoms of menopause and potentially leading to hormonal imbalances. This can contribute to mood swings, hot flashes, and other unpleasant symptoms.

What to use: elénzia MENOPAUSE™ for support during every stage of menopause.

Mental Health Concerns

Last but not least, chronic stress can take a toll on your mental health, increasing the risk of anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline. For mature women already navigating the complexities of life transitions, such as retirement or empty nesting, managing stress is essential for maintaining overall wellbeing.

What to use: elénzia ENHANCE™ for cognitive function and mental wellbeing.

Managing Stress for Better Health

Given the significant impact that stress can have on health, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to manage stress effectively. While it may not be possible to eliminate stress, there are strategies you can employ to reduce its impact:

Practise Stress-Relief Techniques: Incorporate stress-relief techniques into your daily routine, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, or tai chi. These practices can help calm the mind and relax the body, promoting a sense of inner peace.

Prioritise Self-Care: Make time for self-care activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it’s indulging in a warm bath, taking a nature walk, or curling up with a good book. Remember that self-care is not selfish; it’s essential for maintaining your health and wellbeing.

Stay Active: Regular physical activity is a powerful antidote to stress, releasing feel-good endorphins and promoting overall health. Find activities that you enjoy, whether it’s dancing, swimming, or gardening, and make them a regular part of your routine.

Connect with Others: Social support is crucial for coping with stress, so make an effort to connect with friends, family, and loved ones regularly. Whether it’s sharing a laugh over coffee or confiding in a trusted friend, nurturing your social connections can help buffer the effects of stress.


In conclusion, while stress may be an inevitable part of life, it doesn’t have to rule your health and wellbeing. By understanding the impact of stress on your body and implementing effective stress management strategies, you can empower yourself to lead a happier, healthier life. Remember, your health is your greatest asset, so make stress management a priority. After all, a little self-care goes a long way towards keeping stress at bay and ensuring that you thrive, no matter what life throws your way.

The Proven Powers of Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting emerges as a beacon of scientific validation and transformative potential. It’s not just another fleeting dietary trend; it’s a lifestyle choice that’s stirring up attention for its profound impact on health, longevity, and overall wellbeing. Let’s journey together into the heart of this approach and explore its deeply rooted benefits that transcend the realm of mere fads to become a sustainable path to wellness.

Understanding the Concept

Intermittent fasting isn’t solely about what you eat but rather when you eat. It encompasses various eating patterns that cycle between periods of eating and fasting. Common approaches include the 16/8 method (16 hours fasting, 8 hours eating), alternate-day fasting, or the 5:2 diet (eating normally for five days and restricting calorie intake for two non-consecutive days).

1. Enhanced Weight Management

One of its most prominent benefits is its effectiveness in promoting weight loss and management. By restricting the window of eating, intermittent fasting naturally reduces calorie intake, leading to a calorie deficit. Additionally, fasting initiates metabolic processes that enhance fat-burning and preserve lean muscle mass, facilitating sustainable weight loss.

2. Improved Metabolic Health

Studies have shown improvements in various markers of metabolic health, including insulin sensitivity, blood sugar levels, and cholesterol profiles. Intermittent fasting can reduce insulin resistance, lower fasting insulin levels, and decrease blood pressure, thereby reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

3. Cellular Repair and Longevity

At a cellular level, intermittent fasting triggers autophagy, a natural process that removes damaged cells and cellular components. This cellular “spring cleaning” not only helps repair and rejuvenate cells but also has profound implications for longevity. Research has demonstrated its potential to extend lifespan in various organisms and delay the onset of age-related diseases in humans.

4. Cognitive Enhancement

Fasting stimulates the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that promotes the growth of new neurons and enhances synaptic plasticity. Consequently, intermittent fasting has been linked to improved memory, focus, and overall cognitive performance.

5. Inflammation Reduction

Intermittent fasting exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by reducing the production of inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). By mitigating inflammation, it may help prevent and manage inflammatory conditions, contributing to overall health and wellbeing.

6. Gut Health Enhancement

Intermittent fasting fosters a thriving ecosystem of beneficial bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, which is crucial for optimal digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function. It reduces gut permeability and inflammation, mitigating the risk of gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Ensuring adequate protein intake supports muscle health, metabolic function, and satiety. Taking elénzia PROTEIN™ during eating windows will help preserve lean muscle mass, promote muscle repair and growth, and keep hunger at bay.


Incorporating intermittent fasting into your lifestyle requires a mindful approach tailored to your individual needs. Experiment with different fasting protocols and remember to stay hydrated and nourished with nutrient-dense foods during eating windows. In conclusion, the science-backed benefits of intermittent fasting extend beyond mere weight loss to encompass metabolic health, longevity, cognitive enhancement, and inflammation reduction, offering a holistic approach to wellness aligned with our innate biological rhythm.