Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a health concern best described as a form of severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS). PMDD affects 3-8% of women worldwide but is not well understood or researched. What are the symptoms? PMDD symptoms include anger, irritability, depressed mood, anxiety, lack of pleasure, a sense of overwhelm, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, changes in […]
Most athletes consider the balance of electrolytes when thinking about hydration and recovery, especially over endurance events. But are salt tablets and electrolytes really necessary? Before we answer this question, let's recap on electrolytes and the role they perform in the body. Sodium is the key electrolyte responsible for controlling extracellular fluid balance while potassium […]
Zinc deficiency is more common in plant-based athletes. Fact is, zinc is the powerhouse that supports performance. And knowing how being deficient in zinc can affect your progress, is essential. Most athletes understand zinc’s role in supporting the immune system and wound healing, and its requirement for a proper sense of taste and smell but […]
The high demands of sports make athletes more vulnerable to illness, with 65% of athletes experiencing regular colds and infections. Zinc is a key nutrient required for immunity and keeping an eye out for low zinc symptoms, may just make the difference between being sick or great performances. It can be so frustrating to put […]
Iron deficiency is one of the most common issues athletes face. Iron and thyroid health go hand in hand and the effects of exercise on the thyroid gland and hormones are not well understood. Iron and thyroid function Undiagnosed iron deficiency presents an increased risk of impaired thyroid function. Active women have high-energy lives, managing […]
Mineral and heavy metal testing can help to gain a better understanding of what metals may be impacting on health and what minerals are required to increase to enhance performance and overall health. Optimal nutritional balance is essential for the function of every cell and system in your body. Obtaining feedback on mineral absorption is […]
Vegetarian and vegan athletes are at greater risk of anaemia due to reduced intake of animal products containing iron and B12. It is important to remember there are two different forms of dietary iron. Heme iron is found in animal meats such as liver, lamb, beef and kangaroo. Non-heme iron is derived from plant sources […]
Iron plays a key role of forming haemoglobin in red blood cells necessary in the transportation of oxygen around the body which is essential for everyone and critical for athletic performance. Iron is needed for protein metabolism; collagen and antioxidant synthesis, key enzymes in energy production, muscles, metabolism, DNA and hormone synthesis; and immunity.
