Thursday, February 2, 2017

Feed Your Heart: February News

*|MC:SUBJECT|*
Save Big on Buy 2 Deals.  Get in the Mood with Maca.  Love is in the air..but so is the Flu!  Immune boosters and flu-fighters.  Gift Basket Give-Away.  Hemp Seed Oil Demo.  Tanning Coupon below!
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HERB OF THE MONTH - MACA

Maca, Lepidium meyenii, or Peruvian Ginseng, grows in the Andes mountain region, but has become a favorite worldwide for men and women who are looking for improved sexual health, or just a general feel-good herb.  So, with all the love in the air, it's February's Herb of the Month!

Considering maca's nutritional profile, it's no wonder it enjoys "superfood" status. Related to broccoli and kale as part of the Brassica family, it is rich in gluconsinates and polyphenols.  Maca root powder is comprised of approximately 18% protein, 76.5% carbohydrates, 5% fat, and 8.5% fiber. It has more calcium than milk per serving and is high in Vitamin C, copper, and iron.

Libido & Fertility

While maca does not contain hormones, it does contain plant sterols, prostaglandins, and isothiocyanates.  This positively impacts the endocrine system, regulating the pituitary gland which controls the hormone output in the adrenals, thyroid, and respective sex organs.  This study found a "small but significant effect of Maca supplementation on subjective perception of general and sexual well-being in adult patients with mild ED (erectile dysfunction)."  While human studies are fairly limited, existing ones do show clear positive effects of maca on libido for both men and women.  

Menopause Symptoms

Several human studies have pointed to reduced menopausal symptoms while taking maca, particularly hot flashes and night sweats, due to it's hormone-balancing properties.

Improve Mood & Energy

It is known as an adaptogen, which means it acts as a "general tonic" to help the body adapt to stress, and can be taken long term.  This is likely due to it's nutritional content as well as the effects on the thyroid.

Prostate Health

As with other cruciferous vegetables, it is likely to have positive effect on prostate cancer due to glucosinolates.  When it comes to an enlarged prostate, the color of maca matters.  In rat studies Red maca was found to have a prostate-reducing effect (compared to yellow which had a mild effect, and black which had none.) 

Effects on Antioxidant, Blood Sugar and Cholesterol Levels

One study in rats showed significant increase in levels of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase (SOD), improved glucose tolerance, and significant decrease in LDL cholesterol.  That's good news for anyone concerned with heart health.

What to Buy?

We carry Gelatinized Maca powder from Gaia Herbs.  Each capsule contains 500mg of concentrated maca.  It is the yellow maca variety, ecologically harvested from dedicated farmers.  Only $14.99

Also available in bulk is certified organic, Raw Powdered Maca by Mountain Rose Herbs.  This yellow maca in powdered form is not as concentrated as gelatinized, but is dried at ambient temperature to maintain more delicate chemical compounds and enzymes.  Only $4.83 per ounce. 

How to Use?

Maca's flavor is both earthy and nutty, with butterscotch-like smell.  It pairs well with chocolate and is well tolerated by most people. It can be taken as a supplement or added to smoothies, oatmeal, baked goods, energy bars and more!  Here are a few recipe ideas.

Dosage does matter, as detailed here under the dosage heading. An optimal dose for medicinal use has not been established. However, the dosage of maca root powder used in studies generally ranges from 1.5–5 grams per day.

Safety & Side Effects:

While generally considered safe, it is always important to consult your health care practitioner, especially if you are already taking any hormone, blood pressure, or fertility related medications.  Pregnant and nursing women should avoid maca.  Maca may alter the levels of sex hormones and may interfere with the effects of herbs taken for oral contraception. Glucosinolates may cause goiter if taken in excess combined with a low-iodine diet. *

Gift Idea for VALENTINES

BOODY Underwear

Calling all Boodies: How about a Valentine's gift for Him or Her that is actually comfortable for every day?  With Boody, it's so comfy you might feel like you're wearing nothing at all!

Save $3 on any pair of Boody
Coupon Code:  BOOD3    Expires Feb. 13

EcoFriendly: Bamboo is 100% biodegradable, requires no pesticides, and is the fastest growing plant on the planet. It's watering requirements are minimal, so it doesn't use up this precious resource.

Comfortable: Boody fabric is hypoallergenic and superbly soft. Bamboo fibers are not chemically treated, and are naturally smooth with no sharp spurs to irritate the skin. Seamfree and 4-way stretchable to fit your shape.

Functional: Boody is naturally antibacterial, antifungal and odor-resistant. It is also moisture-wicking for maximum comfort. Bamboo retains these properties even after multiple washings.

Find undies options for men and women. Gray boxers ($14.99) and black briefs ($13.99) for guys and classic bikini  ($10.49) or full brief ($13.99) shapes in white, black, and nude for ladies.

FEBRUARY Buy 2 Deals

Because 2 is Better Than 1
GET REAL Nutrition - Buy 2 for 30% Off!
use Coupon Code GTRL30     (Reg. $34.99-$46.99 each) 
The best whole food, sprouted and fermented dietary supplements on the market.  Try these at a great price before they are gone. Offer valid while supplies last!  While all of the selections from Get Real Nutrition can support good gut health and immunity, you can find the one that targets your unique health goals. Each of the following categories contains a botanical blend that provides nutritional support for your brain, metabolism & fitness, cleansing and detoxification, and healthy immune function.  Read more specifically about the process and benefits here.
AuraCacia Roll-On Essential Oil Blends
2 for $30  
(Reg. $18.99 each)
Each essential oil blend is formulated to restore balance to each energy center (chakra) from Crown to Root, based on Ayurvedic tradition.  Many of these have more than one purpose.  For example, Opening Heart blend is also an effective mosquito repellent with a citrusy geranium scent.  Enlightening Crown is perfect before bedtime with notes of lavender and vanilla.  
Happy Pho Noodles  2 for $7  (Reg. $4.99 each)
Pho noodles soup (pronounced ‘fuh’), a delicious Vietnamese soup packed with spices, fresh herbs and rice noodles. Sounds simple, yet the taste is anything but. Traditionally, the broth takes 4 to 7 hours to prepare, so it is often said that great Pho noodles are considered ‘soul food’.  Unlike most other Pho noodles products out there, Happy Pho noodles are made from brown rice (wholegrain rice) that is high in fiber and nutrients, contain no MSG and is low in sodium, and includes organic green tea from ancient tea trees in the mountains of North Vietnam.  All Star Anise Foods products are gluten free, Non-GMO, vegan, low in sodium and made with the highest quality wholegrain ingredients sourced personally by founders Karen & Thao.  By Star Anise Foods.  Each box SERVES 2, so that's only $1.75 per serving when you buy 2! 
GO RAW Salad Snax  2 for $10  
(Reg. $5.59 each)
For those who want an organic, nutrient and enzyme-rich treat on the go, try this gently dried treat.  Salad Snax combine kale, red cabbage, carrots, spinach, sprouted sunflower and watermelon seeds with your choice of dressing, dehydrated to crunchy perfection.  It makes a great addition to soup too!
McClary Bros. Drinking Vinegar  2 for 20% off  
use Coupon Code MCB2  (Reg. $15.99-$19.99 each)
February is a fantastic time to enjoy fermented foods and drinks that support our immune system.  Find recipes for drinks, cocktails, and culinary creations courtesy of the Detroit-based company.  For a limited time, we have the Michigan Saskatoon flavor.  A blueberry-like delicacy!
Kalamazoo Granola  2 for $8  
(Reg. $4.89 each)

Kalamazoo Granola is another home-grown business we are happy to have; available in 5oz packages. Delicious Granola clusters are made with:

Organic extra virgin coconut oil, Organic oats, Local maple syrup and local honey from Michigan, Organic ground flaxseed for Omega-3′s, Organic oat bran for fiber.  No preservatives, no trans fats, no sulfites, no artificial ANYTHING.

Hail Merry Miracle Tarts  2 for $7 
(Reg. $4.99 each)
Deliciously decadent, these Miracle Tarts are made with only organic, vegan, gluten free ingredients that are fair trade certified, non-GMO and paleo-friendly.  What a mouthful!  Don't let your eyes fool you, just one half of a tart (or less) may be enough to satiate your craving for something rich and sweet.  The ingredients are ridiculously simple, but expertly combined with no refined sugars - just pure organic maple syrup.  Find them in the freezer section; just thaw and serve.  They would make a great Valentine's Day dessert!  
Madhava Organic Baking Mixes  2 for $8 
(Reg. $5.49 each)
We love Madhava mixes because they are completely organic and Non-GMO, they use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic impact than a conventional baking mix, and add whole, Ancient Grains like Farro, Kamut, and Spelt.  Choose from Chocolate Cake, Chocolate Chip Cookies or Brownies.
Pascha Organic Chocolate Chips  2 for $10 
(Reg. $6.49 each)
Just in time for Valentine's Day Baking needs!  Free from common allergens: peanuts, nuts, dairy, soy, eggs, wheat & gluten, it is a chocolate chip everyone can enjoy.  It is even Paleo Certified!
February is FLU SEASON

"Oscillo" is available in 6 doses for $15.99 or 30 dose box for $33.99

Because Flu Season is here, it's important to take good hygeine seriously.  Reduce your risk by washing hands regularly, wipe down surfaces in shared spaces, and avoid touching eyes, mouth and nose. But if you feel fluish symptoms like fever, aches, chills or fatigue, why not be proactive?  Boiron's homeopathic Oscillococcinum is for temporary relief of symptoms, and Elderberry may help speed recovery.

Modern science is beginning to confirm about elderberry what folk medicine has known for centuries.  This study noted, "Symptoms were relieved on average 4 days earlier and use of rescue medication was significantly less in those receiving elderberry extract compared with placebo. Elderberry extract seems to offer an efficient, safe and cost-effective treatment for influenza. "

Even if you are not sure whether it is a cold or flu, elderberry is a good choice that may reduce swelling in mucous membranes and relieve nasal congestion.  We have a variety of Elderberry options including Gaia Herbs syrup(14,500mg equivalent) and Sambucus syrup (12,000mg/serving).

Fire Cider GIVEAWAY

Speaking of immune boosters, we offering a Fire Cider gift basket giveaway during the last half of February.  So, every time you come in from Feb. 15-28, you can fill out an entry slip, have a sales clerk initial and date it to validate, and put it in the box!  No purchase necessary!  One entry per customer per day. We'll draw one lucky winner March 1st.  Prize includes an exclusive Fire Cider T-shirt (size Medium), a large 16oz bottle of Fire Cider, and matching shot glass with an estimated retail value of $33!  If you haven't tried it yet, ask us for a sample.  Get ready to feel the heat!
Small House Farm
In-Store Demo

Tuesday, Feb. 14th
 Starting at 10 am.


Try the Award-Winning Taste of their locally produced Hemp Seed Oil!  Ben will be explaining the multiple uses and benefits of his fresh pressed hemp seed oil, and giving some samples.  While he's here, congratulate Ben on bringing home the gold in a national competition!

***  WELLNESS CENTER  ***

No need to print out this coupon, just write down coupon code TAN17 and mention at checkout!
TOP 10 FOODS for Heart Health
Learn what foods are best to take care of your ticker in this FREE class.  Remember when eggs and high fat foods were considered bad for heart health?  Times have changed!  Get an updated look at the best foods for heart health, and taste a few heart-smart preparations, courtesy of Suzan Moody!
FREE EVENT!
Thursday, Feb. 16
6 pm - 7 pm
There will be tasty treats!  Please pre-register for this class by Feb. 14 to be sure Suzan has enough food to go around.
YOUNG LIVING Essential Oils Classes
TUESDAYS
6:00pm -7:00pm


Marie Koch, Presenter
FREE*
Fall in love again with your Young Living.  New topics this month sure to provide interesting discussions! 
Bring A Friend for a free gift!  *First time visitors and YL Distributors under HH4L attend FREE.  $5 for all others.  Make & Takes are $5 or less for each item.
FEBRUARY TOPICS:
7    NingXia Red
14  Reading Food Labels
21  Healthy P**p
28  Cooking with Essential Oils
ADELPHA Thermography
Feb 13  by Appointment
Linda Alchin RN

Infrared Thermography has redefined early detection for Breast Cancer by providing the earliest and most sensitive means of screening.
This simple procedure of taking digital computerized pictures with a specialized Thermography camera is safe, non toxic, highly accurate and an inexpensive form of diagnostic imaging used by progressive physicians in the US and Europe since 1952.
Must have a current medical doctor, MD or DO.  To schedule Call LINDA  at 248-797-1191
 Cost $165  Appointments take about 30 minutes.
Learn More
Email Linda
FOR THE LATEST SCHEDULE OF EVENTS, VIEW OUR CALENDAR
*Disclaimer: Statements made on this newsletter, have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.