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Author: Megan Kendall

  • 3 Simple Ways to Boost Your Metabolism

    3 Simple Ways to Boost Your Metabolism

    Not only does our metabolism determine how many calories we burn daily, but it also relates to the efficient use of nutrients. Metabolism slows as people age for a variety of reasons. Fortunately, one can take several preventative steps to keep their metabolic rate from dropping. 

    Muscle Your Metabolism

    One significant contributing factor to slowing our metabolism with age is the loss of muscle mass. Muscles are involved with metabolic functions, like regulating blood sugar, cholesterol levels, and amino acid reserves needed for repair and recovery. The consensus is that muscle tissue burns more calories, at a rate of six calories per day per pound of muscle versus two to three calories burned a day per pound of fat. The more muscle mass one has, the more calories their body will burn.

    It isn’t necessary to lift heavy weights or do complicated exercises to maintain or build muscle mass. Using light weights is also effective. Regular strength training is linked to better balance and mobility. Strength training also builds bone density. It is a protective measure against injuries like fractures and conditions such as osteoporosis. 

    Green Tea for Metabolism

    Caffeine is the main component of green tea that provides an energetic boost to the metabolism. However, a substance known as ECGC, short for epigallocatechin gallate, is the real star. It is an antioxidant form that contributes to an increased metabolic rate. 

    ECGC helps cells release energy stored in the form of fat. As this energy becomes available in the bloodstream, it can be used by other cells. For example, muscle cells may utilize this energy by lifting weights. Exercise and other physical activity enhance the metabolic effects of ECGC. Taking green tea extract can increase your body’s daily calorie usage over time. Stage 1 Neuro Complex in the Stay Sharp System from Bu Renewed includes green tea extract. 

    Green tea has the added benefit of preventing cognitive decline as we age. 

    Breakfast Metabolism Boost

    While many fad diets include delaying “the most important meal of the day,’ skipping breakfast affects our metabolic rate. The first meal we eat wakes up the metabolic function. 

    It is also related to circadian rhythms. Genes known as clock genes are activated when we eat on a time-specific routine. Some of these genes are related to stabilizing blood sugar levels and hormone balance. Eating breakfast every morning ensures that your body’s metabolism is up and running. Breakfast should include lean protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. 

    Positive health outcomes and disease reduction are linked with establishing consistent breakfast routines.

    Metabolism Matters

    Taking simple steps, such as those listed above, can have a compound effect. 

    Strength training just a few days a week can build muscle mass that burns more calories. But, it also protects your body against injuries and makes everyday tasks easier. 

    Incorporating green tea into your diet or supplement regimen will activate fat-burning. It will also protect your brain from some of the effects of aging.

    Taking time to eat breakfast each day helps turn on the metabolism. However, it is also supporting genetic expression related to several body processes.

  • Health Benefits of Gardening

    Health Benefits of Gardening

    There are many health benefits of gardening. Gardening is one of the healthiest hobbies to develop, especially as we age. It benefits both physical and mental well-being. The fruits of your labor can range from beautiful flowers to delicious, nutritious produce. And the best part is that gardening is accessible to just about everyone!

    Whether you choose an indoor plant, community garden, or something in between, you can enjoy the benefits of growing plants.

    Enhanced Physical Activity

    There are so many health benefits of gardening. Gardening isn’t necessarily a fitness category, but it does involve a lot of movements that build strength and flexibility. As you bend, squat, reach, lift, and dig, you will engage muscle groups. While it isn’t excruciating, these movements are beneficial and provide a gentle workout. 

    Make sure to stretch a little before and after getting your hands in the dirt. Don’t lift anything too heavy or stay in a painful position. Simply using your hands at first as you build up to more will help you enjoy the many other benefits of gardening. 

    Vitamin D Boost

    When our bodies absorb sunlight, cholesterol in our skin converts to produce Vitamin D. Usually, gardening is done outdoors and plants require ample sunlight to thrive. Spending just fifteen to thirty minutes in the midday sunlight can be enough to boost Vitamin D production. 

    Vitamin D plays a role in many of our body’s health markers. It is related to bone health and digestion. Low Vitamin D can result in health concerns from depression to cancer. While some food sources contain Vitamin D, it is difficult to get the required amount through diet only.

    Balance and Coordination

    Gardening can help to keep us on our feet longer. Carrying pots, lifting and moving dirt, and navigating a garden all require balance and coordination. Engaging in gardening tasks can help reduce the risk of falls and other accidents. These benefits can translate to other everyday tasks such as carrying bags of groceries or bending down to pick something up.

    Mental Health

    Research shows that time in nature significantly reduces stress. Seeing plants grow and bloom fosters a sense of accomplishment and joy. Researching and planning a garden helps cognitive function and memory. The simple act of learning a new skill can boost neuroplasticity.

    Community gardens provide social connection. Many community centers and municipalities have established these green areas to promote population health. However, if this isn’t available in your location, gardening can still be a social activity. Consult with a friend with a green thumb, or share images of your sprouts on social media. Many older adults have reported that gardening has enhanced their quality of life. 

    Builds Microbiome and Immune Function

    Some of the bacteria in the soil can benefit the immune system. Reduction of allergies, inflammation, and better immune function are benefits of spending time cultivating plants. Researchers have identified specific soil bacteria that have positive effects on the immune system.

    Go Green For Health

    Many difficulties that come with aging can be mitigated or prevented by engaging in gardening. You can enjoy these benefits no matter what size your garden. Whether you grow a single potted bloom or a bountiful vegetable garden, the key is to start.

  • Magnesium Forms Simplified

    Magnesium Forms Simplified

    Magnesium is known for being an essential element for health and well-being. It comes in many forms, and the magnesium benefits range from digestion support to neurological enhancements. Many people are deficient in magnesium, however, it is available in many common foods as well as in supplemental forms. 

    What is Magnesium?

    We need magnesium for about 300 body processes and reactions.  Around two-thirds of adults in the Western world are estimated to be deficient in this macromineral. Low magnesium levels can lead to a variety of health concerns. Often, magnesium supplementation is used to treat a wide range of conditions, from sleeplessness to sore muscles, to more intensive or acute cardiovascular emergencies. 

    Magnesium is a generally safe supplement with very few side effects or risks. There are many magnesium benefits, and its many forms offer more specific applications and uses. Most adults need 320-420 milligrams of magnesium per day from food. If this is challenging, finding the right Magnesium supplement might help. Many forms of Magnesium are available to be purchased. It is available in powders, capsules, bath soaks, lotions, sprays, and more. 

    Do I Need More Magnesium? 

    Doctors can test your Magnesium levels to determine if you have adequate levels or a deficiency. They can use various tests, such as blood plasma or urine, to establish magnesium levels. Based on test results, medical professionals can recommend magnesium forms that are best suited to address the symptoms. 

    If you have low magnesium levels, you might experience muscle cramping or involuntary twitching. Someone with a magnesium deficiency might also experience anxiety or other mental health challenges. High blood pressure isanother symptom of insufficient magnesium. Low magnesium is also associated with osteoporosis general fatigue and muscle weakness. 

    What are Some Common Magnesium Forms?

    Magnesium comes in many forms, usually bonding with one or more other molecules or particles. However, some of these forms contain a higher concentration of magnesium than others. Absorption rates are different based on the composition and concentration of magnesium in each form. 

    Magnesium Citrate

    Magnesium bonds to citric acid molecules to make Magnesium Citrate. It is considered one of the most bioavailable forms of magnesium, meaning it is very easy for the body to absorb, and found in many health and wellness supplements. The Stage 1 Stress Support System in the Well Being Product Line contains Magnesium Citrate.

    Magnesium Chloride

    Magnesium combines with chlorine molecules to form Magnesium Chloride. This is the form of magnesium found in salt water in oceans and lakes. It can usually be purchased as flakes for bath soaks or in capsule form. Magnesium Chloride will absorb into the body through the skin while bathing and can help increase magnesium levels. It is also available in capsule form. 

    Magnesium Glycinate

    The amino acid glycine and magnesium combine to create Magnesium Glycinate. Glycine acts as a sleep aid and neurological booster. Research shows Magnesium Glycinate positively affects mood and sleep. Although more research is needed, some evidence also suggests it can help with headaches. 

    Magnesium Hydroxide

    Milk of Magnesia is a common name for this form of Magnesium. Magnesium, hydrogen, and oxygen combine in this form. Constipation or other digestive upsets such as heartburn can be relieved by taking this magnesium form. Magnesium Hydroxide contains 61% elemental magnesium, which is the highest concentration of any of the magnesium forms.

    Magnesium Lactate

    Lactic acid combines with Magnesium to form Magnesium Lactate. Our muscles naturally produce lactic acid. The body can easily absorb this magnesium form. Magnesium Lactate helps to relieve pregnancy leg cramps and relief during menstrual cycle.

    Magnesium L-threonate

    Threonic Acid bonds with magnesium to form Magnesium L-threonate. This magnesium form is easily absorbed into the brain and may have other neurological benefits, though more research is needed.

    Magnesium Malate

    Malic Acid and Magnesium come together to make Magnesium Malate. Studies have shown this magnesium form to be highly bioavailable, or better absorption than others. 

    Magnesium Orotate

    Orotic acid bonds to Magnesium in this form. Orotic Acid is a type of genetic material that helps with cell delivery. Magnesium Orotate is easily absorbed.  It may also enhance heart health.

    Magnesium Oxide

    Oxygen and magnesium combine to form Magnesium Oxide. It is an effective treatment for constipation, indigestion, and headaches.

    Magnesium Sulfate

    The commonly used name for this form of Magnesium is Epsom Salts. It is a combination of Magnesium, Sulfur, and Oxygen. 

    Magnesium Taurate

    A combination of Taurine and Magnesium makes up this form of Magnesium. Taurine and Magnesium both helpregulate blood sugar in patients with Type 2 Diabetes. Magnesium Taurate also protects against cardiovascular disease and hypertension. 

    Magnesium Food Sources

    Many readily available foods contain magnesium. Legumes, such as black beans and edamame, have high magnesium content. Spinach, kale, and avocado offer the highest levels of magnesium among vegetables. Nuts, such as almonds, peanuts, and cashews contain magnesium as well. Whole wheat products, especially oatmeal, are also excellent sources of magnesium. Dark chocolate also boasts a considerable magnesium content. 

    While some people may be able to reach their target intake through diet, many people use supplementation to maintain adequate magnesium levels. Depending on health and wellness goals, someone might choose singular or multiple forms of magnesium. 

    Magnesium in Bu Renewed 

    Both the Bu Renewed Well Being System and Stay Sharp System contain Magnesium, which makes supplementation convenient. 

    The Well Being System assists with stress management, anxiety reduction, and better sleep. Stage 1 Stress Support Complex contains 25 milligrams of Magnesium Oxide and provides 6% of the recommended daily value. Stage 2 Sleep Support Complex includes 13 mg of Magnesium Citrate, providing an additional 3% daily value. 

    The Stay Sharp System supports memory, cognition, and mood. Stage 1 Neuro Complex has 50 milligrams of Magnesium Oxide, which is 13% of the recommended daily intake. 

    Magnesium is a vital part of the body’s optimal functioning. Finding a magnesium supplement that is right for you can help you age well. 

  • Neuroplasticity As We Age

    Neuroplasticity As We Age

    The old saying goes, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” or is that false? Current research shows that the brain can be rewired, at any age, due to something known as neuroplasticity. In the study of neuroplasticity and aging, scientists are finding that there is still a lot to be discovered. 

    What is Neuroplasticity?

    While some medical professionals define neuroplasticity in different terms, the definitions all describe how our brain essentially can change, grow, heal, and learn. Recently, researchers found that our brain’s neuroplasticity isn’t just something that exists in childhood years, but neurological connections and pathways are changeable and have the capacity to grow even in the older years.

    Neuroplasticity relates to our brain’s functions, including learning, memory, sensory processing, motor processing, and emotional regulation. Neuroplasticity allows us to learn new things and also to adapt to and heal from injury and disease. By cultivating a focus on strategies to increase neuroplasticity and brain health, one can enhance their quality of life while getting older.

    How to Increase Neuroplasticity?

    While we have the capacity for neuroplasticity, we have to put our brains to work to reap the benefits. There are three main factors to consider when thinking about brain health; they are environment, genetics, and hormones. 

    Positive relationships, healthy sleep habits, and activities such as exercise create a positive environment for brain health. 

    We might not have complete control over our genetics. However, through the field of epigenetics, it appears we can influence the way certain genes are expressed as we age. 

    It is also inevitable that our hormones will fluctuate as we get older. There are a variety of steps we can take from supplementation to medication, when necessary, to regulate and balance that as well. 

    Paying special attention to the environment domain, including socialization, sleep, and exercise, will increase neuroplasticity. This helps you and your brain to age in a positive, healthy way.

    Supplemental Support for Increasing Nueroplasticity

    While there are a variety of exercises and activities one can partake in to increase neuroplasticity, the Stay Sharp System offers a wide range of neuroprotective substances, such as herbs, antioxidants, compounds, nootropics, vitamins, and minerals that promote brain health, increase nervous system regulation, and improve memory and learning. A few of these include:

    • GABA has neuroprotective benefits that promote neuroplasticity. Stroke patients recover more quickly with the help of GABA. 
    • L-Glutamine HCL works with GABA to support brain recovery from injury or illness. 
    • Bacopa Monnieri also provides neuroprotective benefits. It been used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease progression. While it is not a cure, it does slow down the manifestation of memory loss symptoms.
    • Bilberry Extract helps to reduce free radicals in the brain, which can lead to premature aging. The aging brain’s memory and learning can benefit from Bilberry Extract.
    • Choline offers neuroprotective benefits and specifically was shown to increase neuroplasticity in stroke survivors. This nutrient is essential to brain health.

    The Stay Sharp System will contribute to an increase in neuroplasticity, through proven brain-power ingredients. It can also contribute to genetics optimization and hormone balancing. This supplement can support your brain health efforts in a variety of ways.

  • Skincare for Older Adults

    Skincare for Older Adults

    There are several changes in aging skin to be aware of, and here are some steps to mitigate their impact. 

    Skincare and Aging

    As people get older, their skin goes through a lot of changes. It becomes thinner as the layer of fat just below the surface begins to break down. Dry skin may develop, that feels almost paper-like. Cuts and other wounds may take longer to heal. Diagnoses like kidney diseases or Diabetes can affect skin health, as well as certain medications. Older adults may also experience sunspots or skin tags. They must pay close attention to signs of skin conditions such as cancer, eczema, or other complex diagnoses. Luckily, there are many approaches to take when addressing aging skin. 

    What Routines Promote Healthy Skin?

    There are many things older adults can do to protect their skin. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids or eating foods with high water content will help your skin retain moisture. Also, using a humidifier in the home can help reduce skin dryness. 

    It is important to use soaps and lotions that are gentle on the skin and free from fragrances or harsh chemicals. To ensure that no scents are added, buy fragrance-free products. Seniors should take warm, not hot, baths or showers and reduce both the duration and frequency of bathing. Usually, a five to ten-minute warm bath or shower every few days is sufficient. Skincare routines to cleanse the face and neck can help aging skin stay healthy.

    A soft cloth is best for the skin, and older adults should avoid harsh loofahs or poufs when lathering their skin in the bath or shower. Applying lotion right after bathing can help keep the skin from drying out. Aging skin is more sensitive and might require different skincare products.

    Wearing protective gloves while cleaning, gardening or washing dishes will promote healthy skin. Also, protective clothing can shield skin from the sun and wind. Hats, sunglasses, and SPF apparel are all great choices in addition to applying sunscreen to exposed areas. It is important to reapply sunscreen during extended outdoor events and to avoid the sunlight during the strongest emissions of Ultraviolet radiation, between 10 am and 4 pm in most areas. 

    Individuals can also keep fingernails and toenails well-trimmed to prevent causing cuts or scrapes on fragile skin. Also, avoid accessories that may puncture or irritate the skin, such as certain jewelry, fabrics, or fasteners. 

    These are all fairly simple steps to follow for better skin health. Enlist the help of a family member, friend, caregiver, or medical professional to identify more ways to improve your skincare. You may need to swap out products, find alternatives, or stop using certain items to protect aging skin.

    What are the Warning Signs to Seek Medical Care?

    Sometimes, despite taking all the proper precautions, intervention from a medical professional may be necessary. Dermatologists are knowledgeable about certain skin conditions seniors are more likely to experience. Skin cancers, like melanoma and carcinomas, or eczema, including stasis dermatitis, are examples of more serious conditions. These always require a more involved assessment.

    Some warning signs to look for may include: 

    • asymmetrical growths with irregular borders 
    • areas with color changes 
    • a mole or mark with a diameter larger than that of a pencil eraser 
    • a part of the skin that seems to be evolving or changing. 
    • wounds that will not heal
    • pressure wounds, also known as bed sores
    • presence of varicose veins
    • lack of blood flow, redness, or itching 

    Other infections may also need to be looked at by a doctor or specialist. The above are indications that an older patient should seek care from a specially trained medical professional.

    Checking all areas of the skin regularly is the best way to prevent any conditions that might develop into a serious condition. Taking the proper precautions and being proactive about skincare will help increase the quality of living with age. Working together with healthcare providers is essential to maintaining or improving skincare routines.

    Skincare: Prevention is the Best Medicine

    The Age Well System contains a wealth of ingredients to improve your skin health.

    Skincare Simplified

    While some aspects of our health seem out of our control, taking care to focus on what we can control often leads to more favorable outcomes. It is completely unavoidable that our skin will change as we age. Whether wrinkles, sun spots, skin tags, or a papery feeling present themselves. However, we can always educate ourselves on the best practices for caring for our aging skin. Always consult with a medical professional with any concerns. Be proactive by taking supplements such as the ones contained in The Age Well System. 

    It is important to select supplements that are high quality and sourced from reputable vendors. The Bu Renewed Collection is produced using the purest ingredients. The supplements are manufactured in the United States using GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) certified by the Food and Drug Administration. Thousands of research studies back these supplements to help you achieve your desired results.