Author Archives: elenzia

sourdough easter hot cross buns

Sourdough Hot Cross Buns Recipe

As Easter approaches, the season ushers in a plethora of indulgent treats, but who says you can’t enjoy the festivities while nourishing your body at the same time? At elénzia, we believe in celebrating traditions without compromising on health. This Easter, we’re excited to share a recipe that combines the time-honoured tradition of hot cross buns with the nutritional benefits of sourdough and wholesome ingredients.

Why Sourdough?

Sourdough isn’t just a delicious bread; it’s a nutritional powerhouse backed by science. The fermentation process involved in making sourdough not only enhances its flavour but also brings about numerous health benefits. During fermentation, beneficial bacteria and yeast work their magic, breaking down gluten and phytic acid, making nutrients more bioavailable and easier to digest. This means that even individuals with gluten sensitivities may find sourdough more tolerable than conventional bread.

Nutrient-Rich Ingredients

🌾 Whole Wheat Flour: Rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, whole wheat flour supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and provides sustained energy throughout the day.

🐝 Natural Sweeteners: We’ve opted for honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugars. These natural sweeteners not only add sweetness but also offer antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that refined sugars lack.

🧈 Healthy Fats: Coconut oil or butter provides essential fatty acids necessary for brain function, hormone production, and nutrient absorption.

🧂 Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice not only enhance the flavour profile of the buns but also boast antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting overall health and well-being.

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

🍫 Dark Chocolate (optional): Dark chocolate, if added, brings its own set of benefits, including flavonoids that support heart health, cognitive function, and mood regulation.


Full Recipe

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brain age games two women

Brain Age: How to Turn Back the Cognitive Clock

Have you ever wondered if your brain has its own clock, ticking away the years? It’s not about the wrinkles or the grey hairs; it’s about the concept of brain age. Let’s dive into what it means for us and discover how we can keep our minds vibrant and full of life, regardless of the numbers on our birthdays.

What is Brain Age?

Imagine if your brain had a birth certificate of its own, indicating how well it’s holding up against the passage of time. That’s essentially the idea behind the concept of brain age. It’s a measure of how efficiently your brain is functioning compared to an average brain at a specific age. In other words, it reflects the health and performance of your brain, providing insights into cognitive abilities, memory, and overall mental agility.

How is Brain Age Calculated?

Various factors contribute to determining your brain age, including lifestyle habits, genetics, and overall health. Cognitive assessments, often involving memory tests, problem-solving challenges, and reaction time evaluations, are used to gauge cognitive performance. Advanced imaging techniques, like MRI scans, may also play a role in assessing brain structure and function.

Tips to Improve Your Brain Age:

Now that we understand the concept, let’s explore ways to defy the aging process and optimise our brain age:

Stay Physically Active: Regular exercise isn’t just beneficial for your body; it’s a powerful ally for your brain. Physical activity improves blood flow, encourages the growth of new neurons, and supports overall cognitive function. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week to keep your brain in top shape.

Feed Your Brain Well: Embrace a brain-boosting diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and essential vitamins and minerals. Foods like fatty fish, berries, leafy greens, and nuts have been linked to improved cognitive function. Consider incorporating elénzia ENHANCE™ into your routine, our brain health supplement containing a unique combination of nutrients vital for cognitive function and clinically proven to improve working memory by 60%, increase brain energy by 13.6%, improve concentration in 40 minutes and reduce theoretical brain age by 10 years.

Challenge Your Mind: Engage in activities that stimulate your brain, such as puzzles, games, and learning new skills. These mental challenges help create new neural connections and keep your brain sharp. Whether it’s solving crosswords, playing chess, reading, or picking up a musical instrument, find activities that make your brain work a little harder.

Prioritise Quality Sleep: Adequate and restful sleep is crucial for cognitive function. During sleep, your brain consolidates memories, clears toxins, and rejuvenates itself. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to support optimal brain health.

Manage Stress: Chronic stress can take a toll on your brain. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga. These activities not only promote relaxation but also positively impact cognitive function.

Your brain age is not set in stone; it’s a dynamic aspect of your health that you can influence. By adopting a brain-friendly lifestyle, you have the power to improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and maintain mental agility. Embrace these habits, and watch as your brain age becomes a testament to the vitality and resilience of your most important organ.

Try out the Brain Age Test by The Telegraph to find out how old your brain is.

women's day elizabeth court co-founder of elenzia

In Conversation With Elizabeth, Co-Founder

From building a brand alongside her mother, elénzia’s co-founder Elizabeth found her passion in holistic wellness, specifically looking at health from a 360-degree perspective. In admiration of all powerful women, we catch a glimpse inside her life while balancing business, motherhood and health.

Your journey into skincare and wellness started with the loving care from your mother. Can you share a cherished memory or lesson about self-care that your mom passed down to you?

Growing up, and still to this day, my Mum has looked immaculate every single day. I can’t remember a day when I was younger when she didn’t spend the time to look after herself in the morning, even with 4 children! This has been my key lesson from her, to take the time to take care of yourself and do what makes you feel good. She also has amazing skin and spends a good half an hour each night on her skincare routine.

Reflecting on your journey with a melanoma diagnosis at a young age, what has shaped the approach you take towards healthy living? 

Being a mum and prioritising what matters to me. You never know what is going to happen in life and finding out I had a cancerous mole at the age of 24, despite never having been on a sunbed in my life, proves that. Therefore, you can’t live your life from the point of view of “what could happen to my health in the future, but you must determine what is important in life for you and your family, and understand what health and wellness changes you might need to make. For example, for me at this moment, immunity is a top priority. Not only am I pregnant, but I have a two-year-old son, so this winter I made sure to prioritise all my family’s immune health to protect each other and make sure our daily routines aren’t impacted by illness.

As a woman in your 30s, expecting a new addition to your family, has your perspective on nutrition and skincare evolved, and what practices do you find most essential for your wellbeing during this time? 

I think it’s evolved to finding what fits in with my daily routine, as opposed to having to change my daily routine to fit around a health or wellness goal. Skincare has remained an important element within my day-to-day and something that I value as part of my overall wellness. However, it can easily be one of the first things to fall by the wayside when you just want to take your make-up off and crawl into bed at the end of a long day. So, I try to keep my skincare routine as minimal but impactful as possible, as that’s what works for me. I combine key ingredients that I know work for my skin concerns and will make a difference – I’m currently using Endor Technologies® Pure Cleansing Milk, P-Biotic Toner, Eye Cream and Anti-Aging Cream, combined with The Ordinary’s Niacinamide and Zinc Serum (and of course an SPF for the day!).  

Short and long-term cognitive health is also something that is important. My Granny had Alzheimer’s for quite a while in her later life, therefore I know that it is something that could be genetic, so being aware of my long-term brain health and performance is something I’m conscious of… From a daily perspective, it’s not easy being a working mum – especially when functioning on 3 hours of sleep – that’s why I need to try and be as focused and productive as possible during the working day. The combination of these elements for cognitive health is actually the key reason elénzia ENHANCE™ was born!

How has your experience shaped the values and mission of elénzia, catering to the needs of women with similar challenges?

Being a full-time working mum has definitely shaped the vision of elénzia. Ultimately, it’s about products that work. No one wants to waste their time and money on trying a multitude of different skincare and nutrition products when they have a health need today that needs solving. That’s why we make sure that we spend that time ensuring that clinical trial data for our products and ingredients is truly going to maximise efficacy for our customers.  

We make sure that we put the thought, care and time into creating our products so that they are tailored to our customers’ everyday needs and long-term goals. It’s from both my own and my family’s experiences, that we have focused on the importance of health longevity and vitality with our brand and products. Having the multi-generational element to elénzia allows us to empathise with our customers and provide products that we know will make a real impact on their lives.  

Juggling motherhood and business can often lead to stress. Have you found a way to navigate stress and ensure that it doesn’t cast a shadow over your work and home life? 

It’s probably best to ask my husband this question… unfortunately, there are always going to be ebbs and flows within life that make certain times very difficult and lead to stress. During these periods I try to talk about how I’m feeling with my family and friends so that it doesn’t impact me mentally. In the past, I tended to bottle things up, so taking this approach has helped me during those challenging times.  

To fellow women, juggling various roles, what advice can you offer for integrating a holistic approach to health and wellness into their routines?

Understand your health and wellness priorities. Find solutions that you can work into your existing routines so that you can stay on top of them.

This Mother’s Day, what three affirmations can you leave for women who may be seeking that delicate balance between caring for their families, running a business, and nurturing themselves?

1- Have confidence in yourself.

2- Seek help when you need it.

3- Take time to look after yourself.

Get familiar:

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healthy plate of veg and elenzia protein gut microbiome

Unlocking the Secrets to a Longer Life: The Gut Microbiome Connection

In the quest for longevity, science has been unravelling the mysteries of the human body, and one fascinating revelation points directly to the gut microbiome. Renowned genetic epidemiologist and science writer Tim Spector sheds light on this connection, stating, “A beneficial microbe can have an effect on our guts to, in some way, change our metabolism to stop us putting on weight”. Let’s delve into the profound implications of this statement and explore how cultivating a healthy gut microbiome might just be the key to a longer, healthier life.

The Gut Microbiome and Your Wellbeing

The human gut is home to trillions of microbes, collectively known as the gut microbiome. This complex ecosystem of bacteria, viruses, and fungi plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, from digestion to immune system regulation. Recent research suggests that the composition of our gut microbiome may hold the key to unlocking the secrets of longevity.

Tim Spector’s Insights

Tim Spector’s research emphasises the importance of a diverse gut microbiome for overall health. He notes, “The advantage of having a diversity of the good microbes is linked to more diverse diets as well, in terms of different foods that we should have.” Spector’s study involving 11,000 people revealed that the optimal diversity of the gut microbiome is associated with consuming 30 different plants a week.

Understanding the Notion of 30 Plants a Week

While the idea of consuming 30 plants a week may seem daunting, it’s crucial to recognise the diversity within this recommendation. Spector clarifies, “But it’s 30 different plants. You’ve got to remember, go back to biology, remember what a plant really is… it’s also a peanut, a seed, it’s a bit of turmeric, and each plant will help promote the growth of a different set of bacteria or strains of bacteria.”

The Diversity Connection

The link between a diverse gut microbiome and a longer, healthier life becomes clearer when we consider the diverse range of nutrients provided by different plants. Each plant introduces unique compounds and fibres that serve as fuel for specific strains of beneficial bacteria in the gut. As these bacteria flourish, they contribute to improved metabolism and weight management, as highlighted by Spector’s research.

Practical Steps to Cultivate a Healthy Gut Microbiome

1. Embrace a Rainbow Diet
Incorporate a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables into your meals to maximise nutrient diversity.

2. Include Seeds and Nuts
Snack on a mix of seeds and nuts to introduce different plant compounds to your gut microbiome.

3. Experiment with Herbs and Spices
Enhance the flavour of your dishes with a wide range of herbs and spices, such as turmeric, ginger, and basil.

4. Choose Whole Grains
Opt for diverse whole grains like quinoa, barley, and brown rice to support gut health.

5. Consider Fermented Foods
Incorporate fermented foods like yoghurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut to introduce beneficial probiotics to your gut.

Protein Synthesis

Alongside Tim Spector’s insightful recommendations, incorporating a high-quality protein supplement into your daily routine can be a game-changer for your gut health. Our elénzia PROTEIN™ peptide gel provides a concentrated source of essential amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, which play a crucial role in supporting the growth and maintenance of a healthy gut lining. As we age, our bodies may require extra support in protein synthesis, and supplementing can be a gentle yet effective way to meet those needs.

By embracing a diet rich in various plants, seeds, and nuts, we can positively influence our metabolism and weight management, ultimately contributing to our overall wellbeing. So, let’s embark on a journey of culinary exploration and nourish our bodies with the diverse array of foods that nature has to offer, unlocking the potential for a longer, more vibrant life.

Listen to Tim Spector on The Life Scientific here.

elenzia skin

elénzia SKIN™ – The Data

With a unique combination of natural extracts, elénzia SKIN™ emphasises the interconnectedness of gut and skin, showcasing our commitment to holistic health.

Rosemary and Grapefruit Extract – UV Protection

Skin damage occurs as a consequence of exposure to environmental stressors, such as pollution and UV radiation, leading to adverse effects on skin health and appearance including diminished skin health, poor complexion, and premature aging.

elénzia medical nutritionists have highlighted a clinically proven and unique combination of natural extracts from Mediterranean Rosemary and Grapefruit, aiming to protect the skin from external factors using a holistic approach that extends beyond topical application. 

[Monteloeder 2023, Nobile et al., 2016]

Grape Seed Extract – Skin Radiance

The acceleration of aging and dulling of the skin involves various factors, including both intrinsic elements like natural aging and extrinsic influences such as sun exposure, smoking, and medication usage.

A patent-pending formulation of natural antioxidants, combining French grape seed and melon extracts, bioactive Superoxide Dismutase, vitamin C, and zinc provides optimal antioxidant protection, preventing oxidation, and regulating melanin synthesis, collagen fibres, and microcirculation, unlike most skin anti-aging solutions.

[Dumoulin et al., 2016]

Fibre – Gut-Skin Axis

The Gut-Skin Axis connects gut and skin wellbeing, where imbalances in gut bacteria can lead to pro-inflammatory molecules entering the bloodstream. This process may trigger skin issues like acne, eczema, rosacea, and other skin problems.

Promoting the Gut-Skin axis through prebiotics can play a crucial role in sustaining the health of the outer skin layer, known as the ‘stratum corneum.’ It helps maintain softness, smoothness, hydration, and skin flexibility.

Our formula includes a partially hydrolysed guar fibre, which acts as a prebiotic, positively influencing the gut microbiome and enhancing skin health. These essential metabolites play a key role in maintaining a healthy gut by producing short-chain fatty acids in the gut and elevating acetate, propionate, and butyrate levels in the GI tract. They directly support the cells of the gut lining, promoting cellular integrity, bolstering the protective mucosal layer, and reducing inflammation.

[Kapoor et al., 2023]

In closing, elénzia SKIN™ is the result of rigorous clinical research, offering evidence-backed results for enhanced skin health. From UV protection to skin radiance, our formula addresses various factors contributing to aging. The holistic approach extends to the Gut-Skin Axis, promoting gut health through prebiotics for overall well-being.

valentines day self care guide

A Valentine’s Day Self-Care Guide

As Valentine’s Day approaches, we’re reminded that love should extend beyond the boundaries of relationships. This year, let’s focus on the most important relationship of all – the one with ourselves. Here’s a short guide to help you prioritise your wellbeing and radiate love from within.

1. Start your day with a healthy breakfast

Begin your Valentine’s Day on a nourishing note. Whip up a delicious and nutritious breakfast that fuels your body and sets a positive tone for the day ahead. Consider adding elénzia PROTEIN™ to your morning routine for an extra energy boost and sustain your cravings until lunch. Because who says self-love can’t start on a plate?

2. Pamper your skin with Endor Technologies®

Treat your skin to a luxurious pampering session with our skincare range, created using powerful ingredients that are gentle on the skin. Cleanse, hydrate, and rejuvenate your skin with formulations crafted from decades of expertise in biomedical research. Indulge in the age-rewinding effects and let your skin glow.

3. Take a mindful moment

In the midst of your busy day, carve out a few moments for mindfulness. Whether it’s a short meditation, deep breathing exercise, or simply sipping a cup of herbal tea, taking time for yourself can do wonders for your mental wellbeing. Struggling to concentrate? Try elénzia ENHANCE™, a supplement designed to improve cognitive function and clarity.

4. Treat yourself to a special meal

Cap off your Valentine’s Day with a special, indulgent meal. Whether you’re preparing your favourite dishes or ordering a delightful feast, savour each bite and prioritize your well-being. Elevate the experience by incorporating elénzia IMMUNITY™ into your routine, supporting both immune health and gut well-being as you relish in the joy of nourishing yourself.

5. Experience a restful night’s sleep

As the day comes to a close, embrace tranquillity and a good night’s sleep with our specially crafted elénzia MENOPAUSE™ sachets. Designed to support women navigating this stage of life, our supplement complements your bedtime routine, promoting a serene night’s rest and ensuring you wake up feeling rejuvenated.


This Valentine’s Day, commit to loving and caring for yourself as much as you do for others now that you have the perfect allies to enhance your self-care routine. Embrace the journey to a healthier, happier you, and let the love you show yourself radiate to those around you. Happy Valentine’s Day!

menopausal relationship

How elénzia MENOPAUSE™ Could Improve Your Relationship

As Cupid gears up for his annual arrow-shooting spree, we’re here to remind you that love isn’t just in the air; it’s also in your brain, and more importantly, in the tiny, powerhouse molecules we call hormones.

Love on the Brain

Let’s face it; menopause can be a bit like riding a roller coaster blindfolded. One minute you’re feeling fabulous, and the next, you’re battling stress, anxiety, mood swings, low sex drive, and the less-than-lovely companion, vaginal dryness. It’s like dealing with a mixed bag of emotions, and who needs that when all you want is a peaceful and harmonious relationship?

But fear not, our elénzia MENOPAUSE™ supplements are here to bring balance back to your life and, by extension, your love life.

Day and Night Romance

Meet the dynamic duo – elénzia MENOPAUSE™ AM and PM supplements. These little wonders are designed to cater to the specific challenges menopausal women face, ensuring you’re ready to embrace love with open arms and a radiant glow.

elénzia MENOPAUSE™ AM – The Morning Pick-Me-Up

Our AM supplement is like a superhero for your brain. It targets memory retention, productivity, and hormone regulation, giving you the mental clarity you need to tackle the day. No more forgetting where you put your keys or feeling like your to-do list is a mile long. With elénzia MENOPAUSE™ AM, you’ll be on top of your game, and that’s a plus for any relationship!

elénzia MENOPAUSE™ PM – The Evening Calm

As the sun sets, our PM supplement steps in to rescue you from the clutches of sleepless nights, hot flashes, and anxiety. Picture this: a restful night’s sleep, waking up feeling refreshed, and ready to take on whatever comes your way. With elénzia MENOPAUSE™ PM, you can bid farewell to those midnight rendezvous with insomnia and say hello to the well-deserved beauty sleep you’ve been craving.

Radiant Skin from Within

But wait, there’s more… our elénzia MENOPAUSE™ supplements not only have your brain and emotions covered but also your skin. Both the AM and PM supplements target skin texture, ensuring you look and feel beautiful. It’s like a love potion for your skin, because why should Cupid have all the fun?

This Valentine’s Day, give yourself and your relationship the gift of elénzia MENOPAUSE™. Embrace the love in your brain, the balance in your hormones, and the glow in your skin. After all, a happy you means a happy relationship.

Wishing you all a love-filled Valentine’s Day ♥.

ele protein choc

elénzia PROTEIN™ – The Data

The development of elénzia PROTEIN™, a plant-based protein peptide supplement, is grounded in a thorough examination of clinical research data. Drawing from a wealth of scientific studies, the formulation process integrates cutting-edge research findings to optimise the blend of plant-derived peptides, ensuring efficacy and bioactive properties.

Protein Composition

Proteins are the building blocks of your bodily tissues including muscle, skin and hair. Having an adequate intake for your personal needs is vital to maintain optimum health. Proteins are composed of amino acids and 9 of these cannot be made by our body.

Vegan protein sources tend to be ‘incomplete’ and lack at least 1 of these essential amino acids. So, a beneficial combination of vegan proteins is required to provide a complete source of all essential amino acids.

elénzia PROTEIN™ beneficially combines pea and rice proteins to provide a complimentary amino acid profile covering all the essential amino acids for optimum health and function.

Therefore, this product is a complete vegan protein source (Hertzler et al., 2020).

Pea protein, in particular, is an excellent vegan source of Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAA’s). These three essential amino acids – leucine, isoleucine, and valine – are vital for Muscle Protein Synthesis. An insufficient BCAA intake would impact recovery time and muscle mass maintenance, even leading to muscle wastage. A meta-analysis of 8 studies that considered the effect of BCAA supplementation on post-exercise muscle soreness found a large and significant reduction in soreness compared to a placebo (Fedewa et al., 2019).

Digestibility

Plant-based protein sources are notorious for their lower digestibility. Intact cell walls shield the intracellular proteins from digestive enzymes, preventing efficient digestion, absorption, and total availability to the body. (Roelofs et al., 2024)

However, pea and rice proteins are not simply isolated from the other cellular components, they are pre-digested or hydrolysed. As the initial breakdown of the protein is already complete, its digestion and absorption rate are improved, providing high bioavailability (Koopman et al., 2009).

Weight management

Maintaining a high-protein diet is vital for those seeking sustainable weight loss. Adequate protein intake prevents lean muscle mass loss during periods of restricted calorie intake (Moon & Koh, 2020).

Evans et al. (2012) carried out a randomised clinical trial over 12 months where 130 overweight individuals either consumed a high protein diet or simply a calorie restriction diet. Incredibly, individuals whose diet had a relatively high ratio of protein (the high protein group) lost 53% more weight than those who restricted calorie intake.

Satiety

By increasing levels of GLP-1 and leptin in the body and inhibiting the hunger hormone ‘Ghrelin’, increasing protein intake helps us feel satisfied for longer and reduces the incidence of snacking. (Moon & Koh, 2020).

Weigle et al., (2005) Carried out a weight loss study on overweight women and found that those consuming a diet with protein accounting for 30% of calories instead of only 15% consumed an average of 441 calories less per day. So, consuming more protein as part of our meals is more satiating and can help the natural reduction in calorie intake throughout the day.

Interestingly, a study by Diepvens et al., (2007) found that pea protein hydrolysates were more effective at suppressing hunger than whey protein. Therefore, elénzia PROTEIN™ may have a greater impact on satiety and daily calorie consumption, highlighting its potential as a weight management product.

The convenience and concentrated dose of elénzia PROTEIN™ can help individuals trying to increase their daily protein intake and reap the benefits.

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin D2  – contributes to the maintenance of normal muscle function and the normal function of the immune system.

Vitamin B2 – contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and the normal metabolism of iron.

Vitamin B3 – contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

Vitamin B5 – contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue and the normal synthesis and metabolism of steroid hormones, vitamin D and some neurotransmitters.

Vitamin B6 – contributes to normal protein and glycogen metabolism and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

Vitamin B12  – contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

Vitamin C – contributes to maintaining the normal function of the immune system during and after intense physical exercise and increases iron absorption.

Iron – contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, the reduction of tiredness and fatigue and the normal function of the immune system.

Selenium – contributes to the normal function of the immune system and the normal thyroid function.

Zinc – contributes to normal protein synthesis, the normal function of the immune system and the protection of cells from oxidative stress.

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elenzia protein for women over 40

The Power of Protein for Women Over 40

As we gracefully navigate the journey beyond 40, embracing our wellbeing becomes paramount. Protein, a vital macronutrient alongside carbohydrates and fats, takes centre stage in promoting our optimal functioning as we age.

For women beyond the 40s, our protein needs are unique, and understanding this empowers us to make informed choices for a thriving and fulfilling later life. The recommended protein intake for adults is 0.75 grams per kilogram of body weight. However, recent research suggests that for those of us in the golden age group, 1 to 1.2 grams per kilogram per-day might be more beneficial.

But why is protein so crucial?

When we consume proteins, they transform into amino acids, often referred to as the “building blocks” of our bodies. Interestingly, there are nine essential amino acids that our bodies cannot produce, emphasising the importance of sourcing them from our diet.

Age-related muscle loss often leads to weakness, decreased mobility, and a potential decline in the quality of life. It’s at this juncture that sustaining an adequate protein intake becomes imperative, not just for muscle maintenance but for overall wellbeing.

Resistance training, a powerful ally in aging healthily, works hand in hand with protein. Together, they maintain muscle strength, a cornerstone for independent living. And it’s not just about muscles; protein plays a pivotal role in bone health. Preserving our bone density becomes essential to reduce the risk of fractures and ensure a high quality of life. For women, especially post-menopause, the emphasis on protein is heightened, as it can contribute significantly to improved bone density and mitigate the risk of osteoporosis.

As we navigate the intricate journey of ageing, ensuring good health takes precedence. Protein, with its many benefits, becomes a cornerstone in this pursuit. Whether through maintaining muscle mass, supporting bone health, or promoting overall well-being, protein proves to be indispensable in our goal to age healthily.  

elénzia PROTEIN™ is crafted with rice and pea protein peptides pre-broken-down for easy digestion, ensuring your body absorbs the full protein content. This innovative solution offers a complete amino acid profile without compromising your dietary preferences. Whether you’re on the go or savouring a moment blended into your morning coffee, elénzia PROTEIN™ stands as the perfect choice for optimal protein intake, tailored to the unique needs of women navigating the beautiful journey beyond 40.

alexa mullane nutritional therapist health wellness

In Conversation With Alexa Mullane

Meet Alexa Mullane, a nutritional therapist with a wealth of experience dealing with hormonal health and gut issues. We sat down to discuss the benefits of a healthy diet, wellness and eating with intention.

What role does a well-balanced diet play in promoting overall health and vitality as we age?

A well-balanced diet is one of the most important things (but not the only thing!) you can do for overall health and vitality. Every cell in our body needs nutrients to function, and without essential nutrients in our diet, our health would be affected, and the aging process would be sped up. Nutrition can be used to help heal us and to prevent illnesses. Other things we can do to promote health and vitality are stay active, get out in nature, keep our brains active and maintain healthy personal relationships.

Having said that, are there certain superfoods or nutritional powerhouses you recommend for those of us looking to prioritise our health?

It’s important to get a wide range of nutrients from a variety of sources to ensure we have optimal health – and we shouldn’t focus on one food or nutrient to the detriment of others; if we ate the same foods every day then this would limit our nutrient status. A good way to ensure we get a wide range of nutrients in our diet is to eat a rainbow of fruits and vegetables, ensure we eat a range of pulses, grains, nuts and seeds, and make sure we don’t miss out any food groups – restricting foods can lead to nutrient deficiencies. Having said that, a few foods are cheap to buy and can easily be incorporated into meals – brassicas like broccoli are full of nutrients like vitamin C and help the liver detoxify hormones. Garlic is an incredible food which has antioxidant, antibacterial and antiviral properties. And turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory food, we should be looking to include these foods in our diets most days.  

Can you share insights into the role of protein in maintaining muscle mass and strength throughout the years – and how it contributes to our overall wellbeing?

Protein has many functions in the body. It’s a vital component of muscle and bone which means that as we age we need to ensure we consume good levels of protein to maintain strength and stability. Not only that but protein is also used to make some hormones (like insulin, cortisol, oxytocin and follicle-stimulating hormone), it is the building block of all enzymes in our body (which we couldn’t live without – they enable processes like liver detoxification or converting vitamin D into its useable form). Protein also contributes to immunity and is a source of energy – the list goes on. So you can see why it’s important for us to get enough protein in our diets from a variety of sources (I prefer a mixture of both plant and animal sources). 

What advice do you have for someone looking to balance protein intake with other dietary requirements, especially if they have specific health concerns or conditions?

The rule of thumb I use is to have a portion of protein with every meal which is roughly the size of the palm of your hand, or a quarter of the dinner plate. This ensures you get a steady intake of protein throughout the day. If you have specific health concerns or extra protein requirements, or if you sometimes need a super quick snack or post-workout boost, then a protein supplement like the elénzia PROTEIN™ is a great idea to have in the cupboard to ensure you always hit your protein target. 

How does the concept of mindful eating tie into healthy aging, and what are some practical steps for incorporating mindful eating habits into daily life?

Eating mindfully is great for digestion. If we practice mindful eating we will chew more, we will be relaxed while eating and we are less likely to overeat. All of this means that our food will be better digested and better absorbed (because the digestive juices and peristalsis will be doing an efficient job) – meaning that we will get more nutrients into our system to nourish our cells and support healthy aging. Mindful eating also means that we will be more aware of what we are putting into our bodies and will be more likely to make healthy choices and less likely to grab junk food on the go. My main advice for mindful eating is to sit down while eating (no eating a sandwich while running to your next meeting!) and have no other distractions – no phone and no TV. Eat slowly, chew each mouthful 30 times, and visualise how much your delicious food is nourishing your body. Think about the texture, temperature and flavour and you’ll appreciate food in ways you never have before.  

As we strive for wellness in our later years, what’s the most rewarding nutritional change you’ve witnessed making a difference in individuals’ lives? 

I believe it’s not about making one big sweeping change but instead about understanding the individual and making small, incremental changes which will improve their overall wellbeing. For me and my clients, there is no ‘one size fits all’ change. If someone loves their coffee or glass of red with dinner then I’m not going to take that away from them. I will give them small swaps or help them cut down if necessary so that they feel like good health is achievable. I will work with them over time to slowly introduce new habits and slowly phase out any bad habits. Good health and nutrition is for life and I want people to enjoy their food so that the good habits last a lifetime.

Where to find Alexa:

Official Website | Instagram

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