An Tobairín in Bandon, Co Cork
This issue, owner-manager Mary Wedel and staff members Aislí Holland, Danni Dickson, Sadie Pearce, Frances Baker and Yulia Chugai test out their favourite health products.
A seasonal staple
Aislí says: “I’ve been taking NaturesPlus N-acetylcysteine all winter and I love it. I am prone to sinus congestion and catarrh in the damp, cold months of the year. NAC helps to dissolve mucous and keep the airways clear. It increases glutathione levels in the body, acting as a potent antioxidant. This helps protect from viruses and free radical damage.”
Go-to supplement
Sadie says: “My go-to supplement for fatigue, when I’m needing extra support for stress and anxiety, is Terranova’s Rhodiola Extract. It helps me to navigate mom/work life and feel more balanced.”
Golden choice
Danni says: “I had been taking antidepressant medication for years and decided to wean myself off due to excessive side effects. I started taking Viridian’s Saffron Extract instead and I find it amazing. It’s great finding something that actually works without any side effects.”
Green goodness
Frances says: “I’ve been using the NRF2 complex from Natroceutics and I really like that it contains broccoli sprout extract, which is a natural source of sulforaphane. It’s a lovely spring-cleaning support for the body, helping to boost the body’s own detox pathways, which play a key role in hormone balance and oestrogen clearance.”
Mushroom blend
Mary says: “I have been using Fabü Shrooms Post Menopause blend and really like the combination, especially the lion’s mane for focus. I have noticed my concentration has improved, my sleep is better and I feel more energetic. This is a lovely all-round supplement to support this stage of my life.”
Plant protein
Yulia says: “OTOFU from West Cork is one of the best brands of tofu that I have tried since moving to Ireland. It has three different tastes: plain, miso sesame and Korean chilli. All of them are good, but the most versatile plain one is always in my fridge.”
Healing Harvest in Kinvara, Co Galway
Here, owner-manager Siân Eustace and staff members Melanie Bouffard and Sinéad O’Connell review their favourite products.
Collagen choice
Melanie says: “Collagen production significantly diminishes with age, so as I am heading towards the menopause, I thought I would try Nature’s Plus Collagen Peptides. I wasn’t expecting the great results that I have got so far in terms of dental health. Persistent pain to do with a damaged ligament is now pretty much gone, as is much of the sensitivity. Whilst collagen cannot repair the enamel or existing cavities, it can really help with receding gums and inflammation in the gums.”
Daily multi
Melanie says: “Most multivitamin supplements contain very high doses of B5 (such as 50mg), which, for some people like myself, is overstimulating. The Together Health Multivitamin contains a much lower, just right amount, and many other nutrients such as iron, zinc, copper and vitamins K2 and C. I can really feel a positive difference when I take it. I really like the whole Together range. Quality supplements from natural sources at affordable prices.”
Sustainable skincare
Siân says: “Upcircle Peptide Serum is my favourite skincare product. This serum, made with upcycled custard apple and blood orange, is so light and absorbs so quickly that it is almost unnoticeable, simply leaving my skin feeling refreshed. The peptide serum promotes skin elasticity and is ideal for reducing fine lines and dryness. I particularly love that it comes in a glass bottle and, even better, after sterilising the bottle, I can refill it in the shop too, saving both materials and money!”
Tea time
Siân says: “Ministry of Tea Organic Tulsi Wonder is my latest favourite brew. It contains three forms of Tulsi, also known as holy basil, which is used in ayurvedic medicine as an adaptogen, to uplift and maintain calm. It also contains ashwagandha, another ayurvedic adaptogen, and black pepper. I find it gives a great caffeine-free lift in the morning or in an afternoon slump, where I need a little energy pick-up without the caffeine jitters.”
Daily drink
Sinéad says: “I started taking Terranova’s Life Drink about a year ago. I take it a little later in the day because I was a habitual 2pm/3pm second coffee drinker. It provides a sustained release of energy and I’ve really noticed the improvement in my gut health too. Perfect for longer busy summer days!”
Nourishing oil
Sinéad says: “I can’t recommend Kinvara’s Precious Facial Oil enough. I have extremely dry skin and have tried many combinations of oils and serums. Kinvara facial oil is so hydrating and gentle, it’s like a soft protecting layer on my face and still manages to feel light.”
Click here to read other Rude Health Magazine Tried & Tested articles.