Digestive System

Microbiome: Reinstate Homeostasis (Internal Balance)

Microbiome: Reinstate Homeostasis (Internal Balance) Digestive Health  Written by Dr Arien van der Merwe (MBChB NHA FRSPH MISMA) Definition and introduction The microbiome is the full complement of the genes contained in all the microbes, tiny living single cell organisms, found throughout and inside the human body and the oldest form of life on earth. […]

Microbiome: Reinstate Homeostasis (Internal Balance) Read More »

Irritable Bowel Syndrome: The Stress Connection

Irritable Bowel Syndrome: The Stress Connection Written by Dr Arien van der Merwe MBChB FRSPH MISMA NHA Medical doctor, Author, Medical Specialist: Health & Wellbeing   The connection between stress and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) The exact cause of IBS remains uncertain, but the following trends that might help people make sense in finding possible

Irritable Bowel Syndrome: The Stress Connection Read More »

The Importance of Health Screenings

Health Awareness The Importance of Health Screenings Health screenings can identify and assess the following health risks: diabetes, metabolic syndrome, high cholesterol, overweight and obesity, osteoarthritis, cancer, heart disease, chronic inflammation, depression, etc. Dr Arien herself is an example of why regular health screenings are so important. A very unpleasant surprise awaited her when she did

The Importance of Health Screenings Read More »

Gut Health

Gut Health Written by: Dr Arien van der Merwe MBChB FRSPH MISMA NHA Introduction Billions of microorganisms live on and inside us. Most are beneficial, some are potential pathogens. The beneficial ones are called probiotic microorganisms. Lactobacillus (e.g. L acidophilus and L plantarum) bacteria reside mostly in the small intestine, and Bifidobacterium bifidum are found

Gut Health Read More »

Essential Fatty Acids

Essential Fatty Acids Extract Summary from Dr Arien van der Merwe’s book Health & Happiness Poly- and mono-unsaturated fatty acids form part of the fats (lipids) that serve as a source of energy in the body. Fat is the form in which the body stores its energy. Lipids also form part of the phospholipid structure

Essential Fatty Acids Read More »

Coconut Oil Facts

Coconut Oil Facts Written by Anri van der Merwe. Adapted from an Article by Something Natural What is coconut oil? Coconut oil is preserved form the white meat of the coconut. There are two types of coconut oil, namely: 1. Virgin coconut oil – pressed form the fresh meat of raw coconuts. It is cold-pressed

Coconut Oil Facts Read More »

The Natural Approach to Treat IBS

The Natural Approach to Treat IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) Written by ©: Arien van der Merwe MBChB (Pretoria) FRSPH (London) MISMA (UK) NOTE: The natural treatment options and stress management tools discussed in this article, will of course alleviate symptoms of any disorder or disturbance in digestive tract function. Introduction Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or

The Natural Approach to Treat IBS Read More »

Spice Up Your Life

Spice Up Your Life Spices are not just great in food but the health benefits are unbelievable!   Try this easy recipe for allergies: Mix together a pinch each of ginger, cinnamon, mustard powder and turmeric, with a little raw honey in hot water – it makes for a delightful spicy drink. Add a pinch

Spice Up Your Life Read More »

Health Benefits of Weight/Fat Loss

Health Benefits of Weight/Fat Loss A little goes a long way when it comes to losing some body weight, particularly fat. Research has shown that losing 5-10% of your body weight, can have major benefits for your health. Such a small loss may not seem like much if you\’re trying to fit into your bikini,

Health Benefits of Weight/Fat Loss Read More »

The Nutritional Cost of Prescription Drugs

The Nutritional Cost of Prescription Drugs Written by Dr Arien van der Merwe MBChB FRSPH MISMA Extracted from ‘Herbal Remedies’ by AvdM; Tafelberg Publishers Except for the known side effects, many of the most frequently prescribed drugs can cause nutrient depletion. Many of the side effects of drugs can be prevented by using basic food supplements

The Nutritional Cost of Prescription Drugs Read More »