At sense* we are often asked about the ingredients we use in our products and the reasons behind their inclusion. To explain how the individual ingredients contribute we have, in no particular order, listed information on our Top 20 ingredients.
Turmeric
With naturally active compound curcumin , a potent polyphenol (containing curcuminoids) known for its antioxidant properties is always combined with black pepper naturally containing piperine. Piperine improves the bioa vailability of curcumin, meaning that it’s more bio- available, better absorbed and used from your body. Traditionally used in Chinese and Indian Ayurvedic medicine to treat arthritis turmeric/curcumin blocks inflammatory cytokines and enzymes Recent research out of Genoa University has shown that taking turmeric improved bone density by up to 7% over a 6 month period. The active compound in turmeric, called curcumin, is understood to balance out cells that remove ageing parts of bone before it is replaced. Several recent studies show that turmeric/curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties and modifies immune system responses. A 2006 study showed turmeric was more effective at preventing joint inflammation than reducing joint inflammation.
Vitamin B12
(methylcobalamin of course, a naturally occurring, vegan form of vitamin B12). This ingredient is excellent for busy people who also follow a vegan diet and rely on supplementation for vitamin B12 which is primarily found in food of animal origin. Vitamin B12 is important for healthy development, sustenance of our circulatory, immune and nervous systems. Fits into the sense* B vitamin complex in sense* for busy lives.
Ginkgo biloba
Used in the formula and traditionally used in Chinese medicine, improves blood flow to the brain and acts as an antioxidant.
Siberian Ginseng
This the world’s best known and highly researched ‘adaptogen’ which is used by millions every day. As an adaptogen it helps us tackle our daily workload. In fact, because it has a caffeine type of action in maintaining that ‘get up and go’ feeling it really is best taken first thing in the morning.In his “Great Catalogue of Medicinal Herbs”, Li Shih Chen called Siberian Ginseng a superior herb, “Its action is to invigorate physical energy, regulate vigour, strengthen the skeleton and tendons, and increase one’s ambition”.
CoQ10
This is a potent adaptogen too and mostly known for its antioxidant effects, is essential for the proper functioning of your cells. One of its main functions is to aid in the production of energy within your cells. CoQ10 also protects cells from damage and plays an important part in the metabolism.
Organic Baobab
This comes from a fruit generally fond in Africa and is a rich source of vitamin C, which contributes to normal: energy release, immune function, healthy, glowing skin , reduction of tiredness and fatigue. This superfruit has a delicious and sweet citrusy , sherbet-like favour which is full of nutrients. Great if you are feeling low or about to get ill.
Organic Maca
This is grown in hardy conditions in Peru and comes from an adaptogenic root that is recognized for its ability to increase energy, reduce stress, and even boost libido. Our high-quality maca powder provides a good source of naturally occurring fibre, calcium, iron, magnesium and amino acids.
Organic Lucuma
Also grown in Peru, it is an excellent and natural way to get a boost of rich antioxidants and B vitamins. This natural organic sweet superfood powder has immune system boosting potential, as well as the ability to fight and prevent certain diseases. It is great in desserts since it has a caramel-like flavour that is one of the nicest of all the superfood powders.
Acai berry
These are superfoods/superfruits with tremendous health benefits. Acai berries have more antioxidants than almost any other fruit and contain high levels of essential fatty acids, amino acids, and dietary fibre. A bit like a blueberry but even better!
Beetroot
Is of exceptional nutritional value and has been ranked among the 10 most potent antioxidant vegetables. Beetroots are an excellent source of folic acid and a very good source of fibre, manganese and potassium. It’s juice is also used by athletes and cyclists to get more oxygen into the bloodstream, not a bad goal!
Boswellia- or Indian frankincense
Reduces inflammation and reduces symptoms of arthritis {rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis (OA)} and bursitis symptoms. Boswellic acids – the active components – may have strong anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. They may also help prevent cartilage loss and inhibit the autoimmune process.
Rosehip
Contains polyphenols and anthocyanins, which are proven to ease joint inflammation and prevent joint damage. It’s also rich in vitamin C, which has antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are substances that can override harmful molecules (free radicals) which are produced within your cells and which may cause tissue damage or disease. Other studies have found that it can reduce the production of specific enzymes that break down cartilage.
Kelp
Has several vitamins and minerals in abundance. It is particularly rich in iodine and B vitamins, which play a crucial role in cellular metabolism. There are also many useful minerals including magnesium and calcium that play a valuable role in maintaining normal muscle function and strong bones.
Cinnamon
Studies have found that cinnamon may reduce inflammation, have antioxidant effects and fight bad gut bacteria. Cinnamon extracts are used to take care of gastrointestinal problems such as flatulent dyspepsia or gastrointestinal spasms and help calm the stomach. Traditionally used to fight diarrhea, as well as morning sickness. Cinnamon is effective in relieving abdominal discomfort brought about by excess gas too. It is advisable to take a warm cup of tea or milk with a teaspoon of cinnamon after a meal. For people with heartburn, it can be used as a post-meal digestive aid and in stimulating weak digestive tract.
Oregano
Contains naturally occurring antimicrobial essential oils : that help cease the activity of harmful bacteria in the gastrointastinal tract and has the ability to repair the gut lining , thus preventing chemicals from leaking out of the gut. One of the killer ingredients used in sense* for gut health.
Peppermint leaf
Supports digestive health. Appreciation for peppermint’s qualities as a digestive aid extends back hundreds of years. Recent studies confirm peppermint is helpful for relieving indigestion. Peppermint may also ease various symptoms of IBS, including abdominal discomfort, gas, and diarrhoea. Peppermint leaf fights harmful organisms thanks to its smaller compounds such as menthol, that can help defend against many types of harmful microorganisms.
Glutamine
Is an amino acid that is fundamental to the well-being of the digestive and immune systems. Glutamine is great for repairing damage to the gut, helping the gut lining to regrow and repair, undoing the damage caused by leaky gut. (but also reducing sugar cravings…)
Coconut
Contains naturally occurring lipid compound called MCT that stands for medium chain triglycerides. These fatty acids have proven antibacterial and antiviral properties to help balance gut flora. MCT Oil and coconut are beneficial for balancing bacteria in the gut microbiota, which in turn has positive effects on digestive symptoms, energy expenditure, and the ability to absorb vitamins and minerals from the foods you eat.
Resistant Starches:
Psyllium husk- is a fibre and resistant starch which feeds the good bacteria in your gut. It also increases the bulk in your stool, an effect that helps to cause movement of the intestines. It also works by increasing the amount of water in the stool, making the stool softer and easier to pass.
Inulin- is not digested or absorbed in the stomach. It goes to the bowels where good bacteria are able to use it to grow. It supports the growth of a special kind of bacteria that are associated with improving bowel function and general health. Inulin decreases the body’s ability to make certain kinds of fats in a good way.
Acacia fibre is a dietary fibre also used to remove toxins from the body and as a prebiotic to promote “good” bacteria in the intestine.
