Chia Seeds are recognized as a Superfood because they are rich in Essential Fatty Acids, Antioxidants and Vitamins such as Vitamin B, Calcium, Niacin, and Thiamin.  Chia Seeds form a gel substance when hydrated and can absorb more than 9 times their volume in liquid.  This not only produces a feeling of fullness, but also helps the body stay hydrated.  The Chia Seeds are gluten-free and high in fiber; they are the highest commercially available source of Omega-3 fatty acid, and are a complete source of dietary protein.

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Kids need DHA for optimal learning and brain development. Fish oils are by far the best source.

A frequently-asked question pertaining to omega 3 fatty acids is whether fish oil or flax oil is better, or whether there’s any difference or benefit to taking one or the other.   Vegetarian considerations aside,  we do recommend fish oil (here’s our favorite fish oil)  and there are in fact significant differences that shed light on why we think  so. A new study adds weight to claims that fish oil  is better than flax oil, especially so for nursing Moms and infants. Find out why in today’s AllStarHealth bog. (more…)

You've come a long way, baby.

Among the most common questions from our female (and occasionally male) customers are those that concern PMS, also known as dysmenorrhea;  Are there alternatives to drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen, and which ones do you recommend? Among the most commonly-used supplements to help ease the cramping, bloating and irritability that characterize PMS/dysmenorrhea are herbs like dong quai and vitex, vitamin B-6 and B-12, minerals like magnesium and potassium and the serotonin precursor 5-HTP. You can find women who get great results with one or a combination of these nutrients, but because PMS has a complex and dynamic set of causative factors that vary from woman to woman,  there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and probably never will be. However, research suggests that there are two types of nutrients that - besides being good for you anyway - deserve special consideration in terms of easing PMS symptoms. (more…)

Long before it’s talked about on the evening news, the most promising nutritional research first surfaces in peer-reviewed  scientific journals, the ones nobody but doctors, scientists or grad students read.  So once a month, AllStarHealth summarizes some of the most promising new findings in our Nutrition Research Roundup.

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2009 won't be a walk in the park for many. Rule 1: Protect your health!

A New Year is a always a great occasion to reflect on the year just passed and set goals for the year about to arrive.

It’s always been the perfect time of year to re-commit to losing excess weight, getting into better shape, getting that blood pressure down, stop smoking, clean up your diet or start taking some supplements. These are all worthwhile, achievable goals.  But, suddenly, protecting your health has taken on a new urgency and importance.  Suddenly, even with the best health insurance in the world, taking your health for granted, or taking avoidable risks with your health is a very risky proposition. (more…)

Mailbag: Supplements From Sea

Q: I think we have a few too many ‘nutrition experts’ in the family! Last time we got together we had seafood, and afterward the Big Debate was about which is best; fish oil, salmon oil, krill oil, or cod liver oil. I couldn’t keep up with all the crosstalk about mercury and omegas, and all the technical details. Could you straighten me out on which is best, or at least give me something that will settle this so they can argue about something else next time?

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