Call  020 7060 3181


Navigation

Posts Tagged ‘gluten free’

Healthy Snack Recipes

Posted on: No Comments

Vitamix Recipes

Healthy snack recipe inspiration needed? Look no further! We’re in season — bikini season, bikini body, healthy body ready all year round. HERE’S THE REAL STORY: consuming nutrient rich snack foods doesn’t always rely on Vitamix recipes.

Nutribullet recipes make things like healthy smoothies and raw food recipes easy. So a vitamix blender and a nutribullet are handy. But here’s the best part!…

They’re not for everyone.
Susannah, nutrition expert, shares some lesser known nutritious and delicious foods to eat. better still, you can eat healthy on the go. Nutrient dense foods fill you and keep blood sugar levels stable in between meals.

Healthy Snacks

Activated nuts – how? Why should we eat activated nuts? If we’ve got unsalted nuts, they can be great to top up on good fats and minerals like zinc. Zinc is an amazing blood sugar stabiliser. It’s really hard to get zinc in our day-to-day modern lifestyle and diets. Selenium, magnesium and calcium, antioxidants and gluten free and wheat free fiber or fibre.
We can activate our own nuts…

Why does this matter — here’s the deal:

Healthy Snack Recipes

Why would we activate nuts if they’re so nutritious?  Nuts are healthy. Healthy snack recipes made with nuts are numerous! So let’s start with this awesome improvement on the nut ingredient itself. Nuts can contain phytic acid, enzyme inhibitors. Enzyme inhibitors act by binding to enzymes and decrease and/or block their actions. The enzyme inhibitors are beneficial to nuts, as they prevent the nuts from prematurely sprouting. However these same enzyme inhibitors also act on our body’s digestive enzymes, preventing proper digestion and absorption of all the nutty goodness of nuts.
Activated Seeds
Seeds also contain small amount of phytic acid, which our digestive system is also unable to break down. Eating large amounts of raw nuts or raw seeds can therefore sometimes lead to feeling ‘heavy’ or with a discomforting fullness, even nausea.
Recipe to Activate Nuts

OK, so it’s not a recipe as such. But here are the steps to follow to activate half a cup of nuts.
Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in enough water to cover the amount of nuts or seeds activating. For seeds add another half teaspoon of salt.
In a large bowl place the nut or seed of choice for activating and cover this with the salt water solution.
Soak for the required 6-7 hours.
Strain and rinse the nuts and seeds
Spread over a dehydrator rack, or baking tray.
Dry the nuts in the dehydrator for around 6-12 hours. 4-8 hours for seeds.
If drying in the oven, set the oven at the lowest temperature possible, preferably no more than 65C. Stir or turn them occasionally, for the required drying time.
The nuts and seeds should be crunchy. they should be tasty and now they’re bio-available nuts and seeds.

activated nuts

activated nuts

Healthy hummus recipe

Blend in Nutribullet or Vitamix blender the following. Serve with crudites of choice.
Chickpeas softened with Pinch Himalayan sea salt
Small section crushed garlic clove (optional)
Two Tablespoon Olive oil or Rapeseed oil
Juice of Half lemon, 2 capfuls apple cider vinegar
Sumac and Cumin to taste – Refrigerate

healthy hummus recipe

healthy hummus recipe

 

Healthy Smoothie recipe

Blend in Nutribullet or Vitamix blender the following.
One small cup coconut yoghurt or regular full fat plan unsweetened yoghurt
Add handful of berries of choice
Add coconut water
Add chopped peeled small cucumber
Add tablepoon maple syrup
Add half small ripe avocado — see * how to ripen avocados

Blend and enjoy.
How to Ripen Avocados
Place in a fruit bowl as fruit ripens efficiently next to other fruit.

Follow

Wheat Intolerance Symptoms

WHEAT INTOLERANCE AND GLUTEN

People with wheat intolerance will still experience adverse symptoms from gluten free products

Wheat belly

Is belly fat a wheat intolerance? Gluten-free foods are BOOMING. William Davis’ book “Wheat Belly” drew attention to many people to wheat and the gluten free diet.

Is a wheat free diet good for a wheat allergy or GLUTEN ALLERGY IE coeliac disease? What’s the difference? What are wheat intolerance or wheat sensitivity symptoms? What foods contain wheat? READ ON TO FIND OUT.

It can be tricky with food labels. Here’s how to deal with it. Let us deal with the rest!

Wheat Intolerance Symptoms

Wheat intolerance symptoms differ from coeliac disease. They are poorly defined. They als vary considerably from one affected person to another. Symptoms tend to include: (i) abdominal discomfort, (ii) nausea, (iii) tiredness, (iv) bloating and (v) altered bowel habit. Wheat intolerance isn’t caused by an immune reaction. Symptoms of wheat intolerance or any food intolerance can be very unpleasant. But they can’t cause life-threatening reactions or consequences unlike true wheat allergy or food allergy.

Humans have eaten grains for 10,000 years. So why are so many us going gluten free for health reasons?  In evolutionary terms this amount of time isn’t very long at all. Before it time we hunted and ate animals. We foraged to eat fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds. HERE ARE 5 GLUTEN FREE WHOLEGRAINS.

wheat intolerance symptoms

wheat intolerance symptoms

Is there a difference between wheat free and gluten free?

Stress can affect the immune system. So, if you reduce your stress levels, you may find new results. You can feel your food intolerances – including wheat intolerance symptoms – improve.
Can we go back to eating the foods we love after food intolerance testing? When this food is deemed as reactive in our body’s systems? LET’S FIND OUT. 

People with wheat intolerance will still experience adverse symptoms from gluten free products

Wheat Allergy

Wheat allergy is caused by an IgE reaction to one or more of the proteins found in the wheat grain. See the differences between food intolerance and food allergy here. Wheat contains four types of protein: 1) Globulin 2) Albumin 3) Glutenins 4) Gliadins


[tweetthis]People with #wheat #intolerance will still experience adverse #symptoms from #glutenfree products[/tweetthis]


Foods containing Wheat

FOODS CONTAINING WHEAT include breads; cereals; vegetable products (e.g. vegetable pate, tinned beans, vegetable tempura, breaded vegetables, flour; pasta; sauces and condiments; desserts; beverages; medication; confectionary;  Glue on labels and postage stamps. Sometimes, a food label may not specify wheat but another form of wheat product.

Wheat Products

Durum wheat, spelt (triticum spelta), kamut (triticum poloncium). Couscous; Bran, wheat bran, wheat germ, wheat gluten; Farina; Rusk; Semolina, durum wheat semolina; Cereal filler, cereal binder, cereal protein. Flour, wholewheat flour, wheat flour, wheat starch; Starch, modified starch, hydrolysed starch, food starch, edible starch; Vegetable starch, vegetable gum, vegetable protein

Healthy Recipes

Posted on: No Comments

Healthy Sauerkraut Recipe

My Name is Susannah Makram. I typically work with families and CEOs. I work with West End production managers, directors, actors, producers. WE need safe and immediate treatment for back pain and health concerns zapping their energy. We need help to feel energised within our modern lifestyle and I empower them to take ownership of their health journey.

Safe. Clinical. Practical. Effective

That is our Naturopathic Portfolio ethos. How can we make it yours? How can we make it work for you In The Four Phases?


Healthy Recipes

Sometimes our clients want snacking inspiration. Their lifestyle encourages taking time to organise meals and more importantly, they enjoy it!

Healthy recipes

Healthy recipes

Vegan recipe

Fermented Foods Are More Digestible & Safer To Eat Than Many Raw Foods

eg. sauerkraut and cabbage – sources of probiotic and prebiotic – dairy free, raw, vegan food, respectively,

Recipe Sauerkraut

SINGLE JAR SAUERKRAUT RECIPE

Cabbage – 1 small to medium – approx 2 ounces
1 Tablespoon medium grain sea salt or non-iodised salt
1 Teaspoon caraway seeds, juniper berries (optional)

  1. Cut the cabbage in half. Cut out the thick core and stem end and compost or discard them.Thinly slice the cabbage into shreds or small pieces (think coleslaw)
  2. Loosely pack the sliced cabbage into a clean, wide mouth glass jars, sprinkling in the salt as well as the caraway seeds and juniper berries (if using) as you fill the jars. It is not necessary to sterilise the jars for lacto-fermented foods. the jars do have to be pristine clean, however. Pack the cabbage, salt and spices down firmly as you add them to the jar. Once the jar is almost full, loosely cover it and let it sit for 2 to 4 hours. During this time the salt should draw enough juice out of the cabbage to completely cover the solid food. If it doesn’t, top the kraut off with a brine made of 1 teaspoon non-iodised salt dissolved in 1 pint filtered or non-chlorinated water.
  3. Pour the salt brine, if necessary, over the cabbage and spices. Gently press down on the cabbage and spices to release any air bubbles and to submerge them in the brine. Cover the jar loosely with a lid. Place the jar on a plate to catch any overflow that may happen once active fermentation gets going. Leave the jars at room temperature for 3 days. During this time, remove the covers at least once a day and check to see that the vegetables are still submerged in the brine (add additional salt brine if necessary). You should start to see some bubbles on top – a sign that fermentation is underway.
  4. By the end of the 3 days, the sauerkraut should have a clean, lightly sour smell and taste. Put the jars in the refrigerator (no need to put plates under them at this stage). Wait at least 5 more days for the flavor of your sauerkraut to develop. This recipe also works well with red cabbage.

Fermented Vegetables – Why? Tangy tasting, mineral rich, nutritionally dense, gut healing to name a few… WORRIED YOU’RE NOT EATING ENOUGH FRUIT AND VEG? It’s too bloating? You’re missing out on this bloat-free gem.

Lacto-fermentation is the process that produces traditional dill pickles, kimchi and sauerkraut.

Lactic acid is a natural preservative that inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria.

The “lacto” portion of the term refers to a specific species of bacteria, namely Lactobacillus. Various strains of these bacteria are present on the surface of all plants, especially those growing close to the ground, and are also common to the gastrointestinal tracts, mouths, and vaginas of humans and other animal species.

Lactobacillus bacteria have the ability to convert sugars into lactic acid. The Lactobacillus strain is so named because it was first studied in milk ferments. These bacteria readily use lactose or other sugars and convert them quickly and easily to lactic acid. However, lacto-fermentation does not necessarily need to involve dairy products.

Do you want more simple dairy free recipes? Gluten free recipes? Throughout the next few weeks we’ll be showing you how to make the most out of seasonal food when you subscribe to Susannah Makram TV. Perhaps you don’t have time to make these so what you need to know is what and HOW? 

Sugar free recipes

Naturopathy at the Bulgari Hotel Spa is fad free. Sugar free diet? Who is paleo any way? We’re personalised: that’s the VIP everyone @ Susannah Makram clinics is. What’s the number one healthy recipe for weight loss? It’s yours. Follow

WE:

1. Value our body and its powerful capacity to self repair
2. Value our time and WE know what WE want
3. Value what’s most important – Health is Wealth
4. Value our contribution to the world

When we know what we want, there is only ONE question. HOW?

Sugar Free Diet Skin Benefits

Posted on: No Comments

Sugar in The Skin

Luxury skincare anti wrinkle cream for ageing skin requires routine. Accelerated ageing, without proper care and nourishment of skin is instantly visible. Degenerative effects of ageing are similarly seen in other organs. Because of its visibility, our skin outwardly discloses to the world many aspects of our inner health.
If we want to heal our skin we have to heal our gut. How do we do this?

dairy

dairy

ANSWER: Glycation

Glycation is an abnormal process involving sugar binding to a protein, for example fructose to collagen. When the bound sugar and protein are exposed to free radicals they form multiple protein combinations called Advanced Glycation End Products or AGEs. Advanced Glycation End Products hang around in the dermis (the thick layer of living tissue below the epidermis which forms the true skin) and manifest as sallowness in the skin.

You can see this reaction taking place in food; for example baked goods. Or in the delicious sugar shell on the top of a crème brûlée. This making of soft food to hard is glycation. When we eat it, the AGEs from these devilishly delicious nibbles are deposited in the skin.

dairy and acne

dairy and acne

Yes, eventually all carbohydrates are converted to sugar. Even things like brown rice. Less than in the eyeing you up in the fridge! Worst total body offender of the sugar world? That award goes to high fructose corn syrup – corn syrup that has undergone enzymatic processing to convert some of its glucose into fructose. This increases the rate of glycation by 10 TIMES when compared with regular glucose. People with diabetes should be particularly careful, as they will have twice as many AGE deposits in the skin as people without diabetes. And no surprises here but that lifestyle habit, smoking, increases the rate of AGE deposition too!

So what does it do to the skin, exactly?

  •   It makes collagen and elastin stiff and decreases skin elasticity (hello wrinkles)
  •   Inactivates antioxidant enzymes
  •   Increased death of fibroblasts and keratinocytes (not cool)
  •   Makes skin cells more sensitive to UV

Now that you’ve put down that New York Cheesecake slice… Here’s something you can DO.

First, find out if this something that could change your life. Why? It has been suggested that restricting your calorie intake is a way of reducing AGE formation and could increase your lifespan; but who wants to live on 1600 calories a day? Or if you do, don’t you need to know the exact effect this will have? What if its not what you want? Contact us. Find out what we do. Will it help you?

[1] Zouboulis CC. Acne and sebaceous gland function. Clin Dermatol. 2004;22:360–366.
[2] “Diet and Acne,” published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. Lead author  Whitney P. Bowe MD, FAAD

Story of health

Tired all the time? Is it chronic fatigue syndrome? Insomnia, stress, susceptibility to back pain, stubborn fat, recurring infections like thrushskin conditions – these are all commonly seen by Susannah here. It’s not coincidence. We’re getting sicker and fatter – as a nation but also, our health concerns keep coming back. Why?
Currently, we go to the GP. Everything’s “within normal range” we’re told. But they’ll keep an eye on it. Then it’s already happening. We’re on metformin. Statins. We’re on drugs for life.

Modern medicine

Modern medicine

A transformation in healthcare is underway. We’re transitioning from the science and art of treating disease to the science of health and lifestyle healthcare. Standard GP tests don’t offer any insight into our health. They only test for markers that indicate a specific disease or absence thereof.

Story of health

Reference ranges are based on a severely unhealthy population. These ranges only indicate the levels at which we HAVE the disease or the illness. Rather, at Susannah Makram Clinics we’re looking at what’s OUR basic requirement for optimum health.

You see, we might know when we’ve high cholesterol at the moment we need statins or lipid lowering drugs. But what if there was more to this story? What if we have metabolic syndrome. Does it matter? At Susannah Makram Clinics we believe it does. Why? We’re talking about a whole other treatment in that case.

Lifestyle medicine

Lifestyle medicine

Our modern lifestyle may highlight the very need for this transformation, this change. we’re assessing the state of health of our body to see

i) The interactions between systems of our body
ii) How the patterns of these these interaction influence our health

We analyse our functional test results in this way. So we can give you our special formula:
EAT DRINK TAKE MAKE In The Four Phases.

Functional Blood Chemistry Analysis (FBCA)

Blood Chemistry and CBC Analysis – Clinical Laboratory Testing from a Functional Perspective, is currently used as a teaching tool in medical schools and institutes of higher learning in the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, and is the go-to blood chemistry reference manual on the desks and in the clinics of thousands of physicians and healthcare practitioners worldwide.

Pattern analysis of blood chemistry can effectively identify physiological imbalances and nutritional deficiencies by viewing and understanding the complex relationships that exist among blood chemistry factors.

Why blood and who takes it? Blood testing is a medically accepted, proven and a reliable assessment procedure providing a wealth of information on the health and status of our patients. At Susannah Makram Clinics we arrange it so you can have your blood sample drawn at the location you choose. But there is one requirement. The centre must have a centrifuge. This is a device used to spin the blood sample.

Story to health

Story of health

Blood Reference Guide – Clinical Conditions

Blood Chemistry and CBC Analysis – Clinical Laboratory Testing from a Functional Perspective helps thousands of practitioners worldwide. Clinical knowledge cannot be replaced but use of FBCA can help you in your day-to-day practice. Do you want to know more about Functional Blood Chemistry Analysis? Contact us.

Answers before drugs

Imagine having answers about eczema or psoriasis. Knowing the triggers or why you have it in the first place. Knowing why stubborn belly fat remains – even after slogging it out in the gym. What about finding small changes we can make to boost our performance, nip excess belly fat in the bud – before it severely affects our health. A way to successfully sleep at night, healthy weight loss, fat burning, get your energy back. A way to look younger, have clear skin, perform, live, grow.

Better health with drugs

At Susannah Makram Clinics we work with the medical community. What can we  achieve after we’re on the slippery slope of necessary pharmaceutical intervention? Well, it’s hard to say exactly. But if we can help manage symptoms to improve function, mobility, energy levels, we find how we do this at your consultation. We can make every day count and better still, pains and aches that persist, can be manageable. We’re here to help manage chronic disease, not cure it. We’re here to improve health, quality of life i.e. function. 

Plant based protein

Plant based protein

Athletes turning to a vegan diet need their nutrition to act as NATURAL PERFORMANCE ENHANCERS.  Pea protein, spirulina, gluten free plant protein powder, dairy free, soy free, meat free protein. What’s the fuss about? Is soy really that bad? 
Looking for amazing sources of plant based protein these days? Why are we all opting in for more meat free protein? With or without vegan diet or a vegan friendly lifestyle?

There are of course health risks and health benefits to plant based protein or plant proteins[1]
Protein is found throughout the whole body – in muscle, bone, skin, hair – virtually every other body part or tissue. At least 10,000 different proteins make up the enzymes that power many chemical reactions and the hemoglobin that carries oxygen in your blood.

Plant based protein

Plant based protein

The Institute of Medicine recommends that adults get a minimum of 0.8 g of protein for every 1 Kg of body weight per day

Plant Protein

Plant proteins have a reduced content of essential amino acids in comparison to animal proteins. A significant reduction of limiting amino acids (methionine, lysine, tryptophan) means lower protein synthesis. Protein is built from building blocks called amino acids. Our bodies make amino acids in 2 different ways: from scratch, or by modifying others. A few amino acids (known as the essential amino acids) must come from food. Now Foods Pea Protein 7 lbs
Methionine and lysine intakes are reduced with a predominant or exclusive plant protein diet.
Not sure but think you might be low on amino acids? In today’s industrialised world and fast paced life, our body is exposed more than ever before to pollution through the air we breathe. Preservatives and depleted nutrients in the food we eat. To germs, chemicals and radiation that surround us. All of these make our bodies less tolerant to illnesses and diseases. The VF-360 Defense System – Click Here
Lower intake of these amino acids provides a preventive effect against cardiovascular disease via cholesterol regulation by an inhibited hepatic phospholipid metabolism. Find out more about this from these studies [1] Do plant protein and animal proteins differentially affect cardiovascular disease risk? [2]

5 Sources of plant based protein

Peas – green peas 9g protein per cooked cup green peas
Artichokes – 6g protein per cooked cup

plant protein

plant protein

Lentils 18g protein per cooked cup
Edamame 17g protein per cooked cup

Plant based protein powders that are free from heavy metals  

Spirulina 
Spirulina is high in antioxidants known to promote health and longevity and is an excellent protein and nutrient source for those on a plant based diet. Spirulina is that blue-green algae. Spirulina is a highly bioavailable complete protein containing all essential amino acids. At 60% protein – the highest of any natural food.

Is Soy Bad For You

Given that most soy is GMO and sprayed with Monsanto’s glyphosate weed killer (a known carcinogen) it is usually advisable to avoid soy products. The exception is if you can find minimally processed, cold water washed, non GMO and uncontaminated soy products.

Vegan protein

Plant based protein need not all be green or necessarily classed as a plant. Here’s a wholegrain and two nutritional powerhouses that provide a totally new protein taste experience, amino acids, and essential fatty acids to boot. Some signs our body – on a cellular level – makes when we’re not getting enough good fats are dry skin, itchy, scaling, or flaking skin. Soft, cracked, or brittle nails, hard earwax and those tiny bumps you may notice on the backs of your arms or torso. Achy joints or stiff joints are another warning sign.

Chia seeds can be part of a vegan diet – although not classed a plant protein. Nearly 10% protein chia seeds are also an excellent source of natural omega-3 fatty acids – the good kind of fat.

chia seeds

chia seeds

Hemp seeds – 16g protein per 3Tbs Hemp seeds have that perfect ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 EFA’s making hemp seeds another bioavailable complete protein rivaled only by spirulina
Quiona has 11g protein per cup. Quinoa comes in three kinds – we’ve got black quinoa, white quinoa and red quinoa. Quinoa is high in fibre or fiber, is non-GMO, gluten free and usually grown organically. It’s also a gluten free whole grain food. Here’s a list of high fibre gluten free whole grains. According to the Coeliac UK Most people in the UK do not eat enough fibre.

Raw Peanutspeanuts are 19% protein, the highest of any nut – second only to almonds.
Peanuts are among a small number of foods that contain measurable amounts of oxalates. Peanuts are susceptible to molds and fungal invasions.
Not only do peanuts contain oleic acid, the healthful fat found in olive oil. New research shows these tasty legumes are also as rich in antioxidants as many fruits.

DNA Methylation Epigenetics

Posted on: No Comments

DNA Methylation Epigenetics

Are our genes making us fat? Do we inherit chronic skin conditions & hair loss? DNA Methylation Epigenetics Our DNA contains instructions for building all parts of our body. So, although genetic polymorphisms predispose us to developing a certain health condition, epigenetics or how our environment impacts our genes plays a larger role in the development of a chronic condition such as eczema. 1) 2)

  • The DNA in our bodies is wrapped around proteins called histones.
  • Both the DNA and histones are covered with chemical tags. This second layer or structure is called the Epigenome.
  • The epigenome shapes the physical structure of the genome. It tightly wraps inactive genes making them unreadable. It relaxes active genes making them easily accessible.
  • Different sets of genes are active in differential types.
  • The DNA code remains fixed for life but the epigenome is flexible.
  • Epigenetic tags react to signals from the outside world such as diet and stress. The epigenome dynamically responds to the environment. Stress, diet, behavior, toxins, and other factors regulate gene expression.
  • The epigenome adjusts specific genes in our genomic landscape that responds to our rapidly changing environment.
DNA methylation epigenetics

DNA methylation epigenetics

Our body is a system, an ecosystem where everything is connected. When that system is out of balance, diseases arises.

Nutrigenomics teaches us how to prevent, treat and reverse almost every chronic illness. Chronic disease include diabetes, high blood pressure, depression, allergies, asthma, IBS, reflux, migraines, acne, low sex drive, fatigue and more.

Disease goes away as a side effect of getting healthy. When we treat the cause or causes with proper understanding of these processes that led to the disease, then we’re going to change. We won’t accept that simply living with certain conditions is acceptable.

Immune Modulation and Chronic Inflammation

Chronic inflammatory disorders such as eczema, acne and psoriasis – skin conditions – are characterised by a hyper responsive immune system.  10 key epigenetic factors must be addressed to regulate and better coordinate our immune response.

1.  Blood Sugar instability  Blood sugar imbalances cause immune dysfunction and malcoordination.  Stable blood sugar is critical for a healthy immune response.

2.  Low Vitamin D Levels Individuals with low vitamin D3 levels (below 40 ng/ml) are at significant risk for developing chronic inflammation and allergy-like conditions 3)

3.   Gut Dysbiosis  Unhealthy microbial imbalance in the gut microbiome leads to leaky gut syndrome and chronic inflammation 4) so we’ve got to address gut issues in order to get well.

4.   Mitochondrial Dysfunction  The mitochondria are the energy producing organelles in each cell of the body.  They are extremely key in the bodies ability to handle oxidative stress.  Dysfunction in the mitochondria leads to increased free radical and oxidative stress which creates immune alterations. Low Glutathione Levels. Glutathione is the major antioxidant within every cell of the body.  It’s critical for white blood cell (WBC) function as the WBCs encounter tremendous amounts of free radical and oxidative stress every second of the day. Low glutathione leads to chronic inflammation and often to auto-immunity 5).

6.  Methylation. Methylation is a key process that protects DNA, turns on and off genetic traits and helps to detoxify environmental chemicals.  Many of us individuals have certain genetic polymorphisms that limit their ability to appropriately methylate. Methylation plays a very important role in T cell function and poor methylation status is associated with the development of autoimmunity. Psoriasis is a T cell mediated inflammatory skin disease. 6)  Poor Omega 6:3 ratio  – the average person has significantly more omega 6 fats than omega 3 fats.  The increased omega 6 stimulate the release of pro-inflammatory mediating prostaglandin molecules.  This is a key factor in the development of chronic inflammation and skin related disorders 7).

Epigenetics

Epigenetics

7.  Environmental Toxins:  Exposure to high levels of infectious microbes, environmental chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, beauty, hygiene and other personal care products, heavy metals and biotoxins e.g. mold. These wear down our body’s glutathione levels, alter the gut microflora and increase inflammatory activity in the body (7, 8, 9).

8.  High Stress High mental and emotional stress increases stress hormone production. This changes our posture and the way we breathe, which in turn induces inflammatory activity within the body. Poor posture, breathing and musculoskeletal aches and pain that result can simulate chronic mental and emotional stressors 10)

9.  Lack of Sleep Poor quality sleep promotes immune dysfunction and increased inflammation throughout the body. Good sleeping habits and optimal melatonin secretion reduce inflammation and promote improved tissue healing 11).

10.  EMF Exposure  Electromagnetic frequency exposure has been shown to alter the function of the immune system. Also, its been shown to increase one’s susceptability to developing an auto-immune condition 12)

Health Benefits Cacao

Posted on: No Comments

Antioxidants

Health Benefits Cacao Cacao is the dried partly fermented fatty seed of a South American evergreen tree (Theobroma cacao of the family Sterculiaceae) used in making cocoa, chocolate and cocoa butter—called also cacao bean, cocoa bean.
ORAC 
is a measure of the antioxidant activity of foods.
ORAC – HDL – LDL Cholesterol 
ORAC stands for Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity. The biological relevance of this metric is questionable. Because it’s done in a test tube it may not have the same effect in OUR bodyHDL stands for High Density Lipids. LDL stands for Low Density Lipids
In a study of 470 elderly men, cocoa was found to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death by a whopping 50% over a 15 year period. Another study revealed that eating chocolate 2 or more times per week lowered the risk of having calcified plaque in the arteries by 32%. Eating chocolate less frequently had no effect.
Yet another study showed that chocolate 5+ times per week lowered the risk of cardiovascular disease by 57%

Health Benefits Cacao

These studies are observational studies. Provided is a biological mechanism – lower blood pressure and oxidized LDL. So it is plausible that regular consumption of dark chocolate can in fact reduce the risk of heart disease.
Observational studies show a drastic reduction in heart disease risk for the people who consume the most chocolate
In a controlled trial, cocoa powder was found to significantly decrease oxidized LDL cholesterol in men.
It also increased HDL and lowered total LDL in men with elevated cholesterol
Oxidised LDL means that the LDL (“bad” cholesterol) has reacted with free radicals
It makes perfect sense that cocoa lowers oxidized LDL.
It contains an abundance of powerful antioxidants. These make it into the bloodstream and protect lipoproteins against oxidative damage.


Cacao Health Benefits Cacao and The Body Youth Code

The flavanols in dark chocolate can stimulate the endothelium, the lining of arteries, to produce Nitric Oxide (NO). This gas sends signals to the arteries to relax. This lowers resistance to blood flow and reduces blood pressure.
Many controlled trials showing that cocoa and dark chocolate can improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. The effects are usually mild. However, one study in people with elevated blood pressure hows no effect, so may be not actually medicinal.


Anti-aging

Our skin is an important barrier from external stressors such as environmental toxins and sun-induced DNA damageStudies show that the flavanols from cocoa can improve blood flow to the skin and protect it against sun-induced damage.      [tweetthis]Studies show flavanols from cocoa improve blood flow & prevent sun-induced skin damage[/tweetthis]


Chocolate Benefits

Chocolate Benefits


Chocolate Health Benefits – Nutrition for Healthy Skin

Bioactive compounds in dark chocolate can account for our youthful skin complexion. At Susannah Makram Clinics we’re interested in bringing out the best in our body – and our skin is the largest organ! Flavonols can protect against sun-induced damage. They improve blood flow to skin, increasing skin density and skin hydration. Minimal erythemal dose (MED) – this is the minimum amount of UVB rays required to cause redness in the skin, 24 hours after exposure. In one study of 30 people, the MED more than doubled after consuming dark chocolate high in flavanols for 12 weeks


Chocolate Health Benefits – Consider This COCOA

Cocoa may also significantly improve cognitive function in elderly people with mental impairment. It also improves verbal fluency and several risk factors for disease.

Cocoa also contains stimulant substances like caffeine and theobromine. These might be a key reason cocoa can improve brain function in the short term

Nutrition is a science and your body is as unique as your DNA

10 signs of SIBO

Posted on: No Comments

10 signs SIBO & difference between IBS and SIBO. The FODMAP diet and why it’s not for everybody. Most digestive problems like IBS are formed by lifestyle; our nutrition & our daily stress. Digestive complaints — constipation, diarrhoea, heartburn and bloating are very common.

The IBS diet

Most digestive problems like IBS and SIBO are formed by lifestyle; our nutrition and our daily stress. Digestive complaints — constipation, diarrhoea, heartburn and bloating are very common. SIBO can leave us feeling tired all the time. SIBO or IBS? (read on)…

We shouldn’t have to live with them though.

SIBO or IBS?

SIBO is Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth. It’s often confused with IBS (Irritable Bowl Syndrome).
Dysbiosis is a microbial imbalance on or inside the body. 10 Signs of SIBO — read on…

FODMAP, GAPS paleolithic diet, pegan diet, sirtfoods, sugar free. What’s our take on these?

London Nutrition expert Susannah at The Bulgari Hotel, Knightsbridge and The Chelsea Private Clinic uses a functional approach. This can help identify between SIBO and IBS.

Digestive issues affect gut healthLondon naturopath and osteopath Susannah looks at total body wellness. Her gut health assessment links dysfunction to skin issues, stubborn belly fat, tiredness, low immunity, musculoskeletal pain, etc…
— How can you actually use this? —

SIBO test

SIBO test

10 signs of SIBO

1. Gas 2. Bloating 3. Diarrhoea 4. Abdominal pain or abdominal cramping 5. Constipation (much less common than diarrhoea) 6. Diagnosis of IBS or IBD irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease
7. Food intolerances such as
gluten
casein
lactose
fructose
and more
Can we get rid of food intolerance for good? Drop us a line. How can we help answer your food intolerance questions?
8. Chronic illnesses such as: fibromyalgia : chronic fatigue syndrome : diabetes : neuromuscular disorders
autoimmune disorders
9.  Nutrient deficiencies and their associated symptoms: Vitamin B12, A, D, E, iron, other B vitamins, fat, protein and carbohydrate malabsorption.
Carbohydrate intolerance-symptoms se.g. bloating or pain or gas or fatigue after eating.
Fat malabsorption.
10. Joint pain

SIBO test

SIBO Breath Test This is the gold standard. However, it’s quite cumbersome. Individuals must fast for 12 hours, breathe into a small balloon, ingest a precise amount of sugar and repeat breath samples every 15 minutes for 3 or more hours. Abnormal breath tests also can signify pancreatic insufficiency and celiac disease.

Organix Dysbiosis Test or Urine Organic Acid Test This functional medicine lab test the urine for by-products of yeast or bacteria in the small intestine. If your small intestine is housing a yeast or bacterial overgrowth, byproducts will appear in your urine, indicating their presence. This test is much easier for patients and only requires one single urine specimen. This is the test I use most often in my clinic.

Comprehensive Stool Test This is also a functional medicine lab test looking at the flora of the large intestines.

History By listening to our patient’s history and symptoms oftentimes, this can reveal far more than any test. The question is, can we make a diagnosis of SIBO in order to effectively treat it?


SIBO diet

The goals of treatment for SIBO and IBS are In The Four Phases.

PHASE 1) correct underlying cause PHASE 2) provide the 2 PHASE plan: nutrition support to target the cause 3) Nutritional support to treat side-effects of malabsorption 4) treat bacterial overgrowth


The standard treatment for SIBO is an antibiotic called Xifaxan or Rifaximin. You may be prescribed this by a prescribing physician as part of our clinic team. Because Xifaxan isn’t well absorbed throughout the body, it mostly stays in the gut. So, it’s effective against SIBO. The antibiotic – probiotic combination is carefully considered @ Susannah Makram Clinics. The right amount of probiotic is incorporated into your FOUR PHASE treatment.

Nutrient supplementation is only effective to target your primary health concern when administered in this supervised manner.

SIBO Diet

SIBO Diet

Sibo Treatment

So now you know the 10 signs of SIBO. Generally, it’s advised to adopt a long-term diet low in carbohydrates. Specifically, refined carbohydrates. HOWEVER, Candida overgrowth is more common in those susceptible to SIBO. So we may set ourselves up for more issues with low carbohydrate diets thus.

EAT DRINK TAKE MAKE for SIBO and IBS. What it is. Personalised nutrition in the 4) phases. What it’s not: a generic FODMAP Diet or the GAPS Diet – in fact it’s not a diet at all! Functional Nutrition with Susannah is designed to be effective by its practical nature that fits into your lifestyle as well as the specially designed methodical approach it takes to heal your gut.

what is psoriasis

What is psoriasis

We’re going to answer what is psoriasis exactly here. Making this simple we’ll start by saying psoriasis is a skin condition. Kim Kardashian along with lots of other celebrities have raised awareness of it. So why’s it quite common in celebrities when not so many people seem to get it? If you want to know more about the different types you can keep reading here.

Psoriasis is a T cell mediated inflammatory skin disease. Abnormal cellular activity in the top five layers of the skin leads to psoriasis. These layers are the epidermis. Activity starts in the deepest layer of the epidermis.  In severe cases, psoriasis can result in an insufficient nutritional status which may even be promoted by nutrient-drug interactions. 1 of 4 controlled psoriasis studies showed a benefit of omega-3 fatty acids compared to placebo. Some psoriasis patients are gluten-sensitive and may benefit from a gluten free diet.

what is psoriasis

what is psoriasis

Keratinocytes are made in this deepest level. Keratinocytes are immature skin cells. They produce keratin, a tough protein that helps form hair, nails and skin. In normal cell growth, keratinocytes grow and move from the bottom layer to the skin’s surface and shed unnoticed. This process takes about a month.
In people with psoriasis, the keratinocytes multiply very rapidly. They travel from the basal layer to the surface in about 4 days. As the skin cannot shed these cells quickly enough, they build up. This leads to thick, dry patches or plaques. Silvery, flaky areas of dead skin build up on the surface of plaques. The skin layer underneath (dermis), which contains the nerves, blood and lymphatic vessels, becomes red and swollen.

psoriasis triggers

psoriasis triggers

If you have a food intolerance or allergies that are undiagnosed, an inflammatory response will occur. Every time you ingest this food it is a trigger.

Genes or genetics play a major role in the development of psoriasis. Researchers have discovered a variation in a group of genes. These are known as LCE and can protect against the condition. One of these genes codes for proteins. These proteins help maintain the skin’s barrier.

Psoriasis and Nutrition

The Need For Anti-inflammatory Personalised Nutrition: if you want to heal your skin you’ve got to heal your gut. If you don’t want the same skin issue to recur repeatedly and affect your life when you least expect it to, you’ve got to have a functional treatment plan in place from day ONE.
The chances that this genetic potential will eventually manifest as the disease is what we measure using nutrigenomics. Nutrigenomics may account for one of your FOUR PHASES. Disease or not depends on a complex interplay between the human genome and two key factors. These two are environmental and behavioral factors. If you think it all sounds too hard and complicated while you’re working all hours of the day – consider this. We want results. You want results. So we’ve got to KISS. (Keep It Seriously Simply!)

Personalised nutrition is guided by your medical history. We see skin conditions that haven’t been identified. So it’s important to have a clear knowledge of what is psoriasis. Unknown conditions where the person doesn’t know what is psoriasis are left untreated or unmanaged at We see it at consultations for naturopathy in Knightbridge or at our other consulting rooms. We use the naturopathic functional approach always to find the root cause. In The Four Phases works especially well for recurring skin conditions like psoriasis. We can answer your specific personal enquiries beforehand here.
One consideration is your history of medical drug use. The clinical manifestations of drug-associated or drug provoked psoriasis can range. The spectrum is from plaque-type psoriasis to severe erythroderma. Certain medications, such as lithium, prescribed for bipolar disorder, can trigger psoriasis. Also, high blood pressure medications such as beta blockers, antimalarial drugs and iodides can be triggers.

Psoriasis Triggers

What triggers psoriasis? Psoriasis typically starts or worsens because of a trigger. Other than undiagnosed or misdiagnosed food intolerances or allergies there are other triggers like drugs. Drug associated or drug provoked psoriasis can range from plaque-type psoriasis to severe erythroderma. Certain medications such as lithium, prescribed for bipolar disorder, can trigger psoriasis. Also, high blood pressure medications such as beta blockers, antimalarial drugs and iodides can be triggers. Other triggers of scalp psoriasis include infections, such as strep throat or skin infections. Injury to the skin, such as a cut or scrape, bug bite, or a severe sunburn. Stress, cold weather, smoking, heavy alcohol consumption.

Psoriasis and nutrition

Psoriasis and nutrition

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, scalp psoriasis often results in hair thinning and loss.

Will my child develop psoriasis?

If one parent has psoriasis, a child has about a 10% chance of having psoriasis. If both parents have psoriasis, a child has approximately a 50% chance of developing the disease. Psoriasis of the scalp affects about 50% of patients. In some cases, the psoriasis may cover the scalp with thick plaques. These plaques extend down from the hairline to the forehead. Psoriasis patches rarely affect the face in adulthood. In children, psoriasis is most likely to start in the scalp. It then spreads to other parts of the body.


Safe, clinical, practical and effective.


Call  020 7060 3181