Welcome to our International Women’s Newsletter, dedicated to empowering women worldwide to prioritise women’s health and well-being. In today’s fast-paced world, it is crucial to ensure that women have access to reliable information and resources to support their individual health needs. With that in mind, included in this newsletter is a range of supplements specifically formulated to address the diverse health concerns of women. From reproductive and fertility support to supporting energy levels and promoting overall well-being, the supplements included are designed to complement a balanced lifestyle and help women thrive in every aspect of life. Join us on this journey of self-care and empowerment as we explore the importance of health practices for women everywhere.

Reproductive Health and Fertility Support

Preconception formula

Metabolics Preconception Formula consists of a balance of nutrients that support normal reproductive health. It includes some of the following:

Folate

Folate, also known as B9 can play a role on supporting reproductive health in women in several ways:

  • Supporting healthy pregnancy- Adequate folate levels are important for overall foetal development and growth
  • Supporting fertility- folate plays a role in fertility by supporting ovulation and promoting a healthy reproductive system.

Choline

Choline is also an essential nutrient that plays a role in various aspects of reproductive health in women:

  • Foetal brain development- Choline is crucial for brain development in the foetus, particularly in the early stages of pregnancy.
  • Supporting placental function- choline is involved in the formation and function of the placenta, the organ that nourishes and protects the foetus during pregnancy.

Antenatal Formula- Metabolics Antenatal Formula is a specially formulated nutritional supplement designed to support women who are pregnant and breastfeeding. Antenatal Formula is the follow-on supplement from Metabolics Preconception Formula, designed for men and women trying to conceive. Metabolics Antenatal Formula is designed for pregnant and breastfeeding women to support both themselves and their offspring nutritionally. The formula includes nutrients that could otherwise be depleted at such a time and lead to increased feelings of tiredness or a weakened immune system such as Vitamin C, vitamin D, iron, and folate contributing to the normal function of the immune system and Vitamin B12, vitamin C, biotin, iodine, calcium, and magnesium providing energy support, as they all contribute to your normal energy-yielding metabolism.

All ingredients have been included at a level that is optimum and safe for both pregnancy and postpartum.

B12 & Folate

Vitamin B12 in the form of methylcobalamin and folate is included in preconception formula but it can also be consumed separately as Metabolics B12 & Folate capsules. This product provides a measured amount of vitamin B12, an essential vitamin, and folate. As mentioned above, folate can help support foetal development and general fertility. In regards to B12, it can help with the following:

  • Fertility- Adequate levels of B12 are crucial for maintaining fertility in women. B12 is involved in the synthesis of DNA, RNA and red blood cells which are essential for normal cell growth and division.
  • Regulating hormones- B12 plays a role in regulating hormone levels in the body, including oestrogen and progesterone, which are essential for ovulation, menstrual cycle regulation and maintaining a healthy pregnancy.

Iron

Iron is also included in the Preconception Formula. Iron plays a role in reproductive health for women in several ways:

  • Menstrual Health- Iron is essential for the production of haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. During menstruation, women lose blood and iron. Inadequate iron levels can lead to deficiency and anaemia.
  • Pregnancy- Iron requirements increase significantly during pregnancy to support the growing foetus and placenta as well as the expansion of maternal blood volume. Iron is necessary for the production of haemoglobin in both the mother and the foetus ensuring an adequate oxygen supply to support fetal growth and development.

Hormone Balance

Evening Primrose Oil

Evening Primrose Oil Is often praised for its potential benefits in promoting hormonal balance in women, particularly due to its high content of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), and omega 6 fatty acid. Here is how it may help with hormonal balance:

  • Menstrual health - GLA is a precursor of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that play a role in regulating the menstrual cycle. Evening primrose oil may help alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle such as breast tenderness, bloating and mood swings.
  • PMS - Evening primrose oil may be beneficial in reducing the severity of PMS symptoms including irritability, depression, breast pain and abdominal discomfort.
  • Menopause support - Evening primrose oil may be used to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause such as hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings and vaginal dryness. GLA may help support hormonal balance during the transitional phase by modulating prostaglandin synthesis and reduce inflammation.

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, can play a role in hormonal balance in several ways:

  • Regulating Oestrogen and Progesterone- B6 is involved in the synthesis and metabolism of steroid hormones including oestrogen and progesterone. It helps convert the amino acid tryptophan into serotonin, which helps regulate moods and supports overall well-being.
  • Supporting fertility- Adequate levels of B6 are important for reproductive health and fertility. It is involved in the production of hormones necessary for ovulation and the development of a healthy uterine lining.
  • PMS Symptoms- B6 has been known for the potential to alleviate symptoms associated with PMS such as mood swings, irritability, bloating, breast tenderness and fatigue.

Energy and Vitality

Women often juggle multiple responsibilities including work, family and social commitments which can lead to increased energy demands. Not only this but hormonal fluctuations during menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopause can affect energy levels and mood in women.

B Complex Capsules/Liquid

A B Complex supplement can help support energy production in women through several mechanisms-

  • B Vitamins as Coenzymes- B Complex vitamins including B1 (Thiamine), B2 (Riboflavin), B3 (Niacin), B5 (Pantothenic acid), B6 (Pyridoxine), B7 (Biotin) and B12 (Cobalamin) serve as coenzymes in various metabolic pathways involved in energy production. These vitamins are essential for converting carbohydrates, fats and proteins from food into useable energy molecules such as ATP through processes like the citric acid cycle (energy cycle).
  • Enhancing red blood cells- B12 and B9 (folate) are crucial for the production of red blood cells, which transport oxygen to tissues throughout the body including muscles and organs involved in energy metabolism.
  • Supporting the nervous system- B Vitamins play a vital role in maintaining the health and function of the nervous system, including the brain. They are involved in neurotransmitter synthesis and nerve impulse transmission, which are essential for maintaining alertness, focus and cognitive function all of which contribute to energy levels and mental clarity.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is used as a general tonic to help maintain optimal stamina, feelings of energy and vitality, an adaptogen and as an antioxidant. Here is how it can help with energy support:

  • Stress management - Ashwagandha is well known for its adaptogenic properties, which help the body adapt to stress and maintain balance in times of physical and mental strain. By reducing the body’s stress response, ashwagandha, may help prevent the depletion of energy reverses caused by chronic stress, thereby supporting sustained energy levels throughout the day.
  • Sleep support - Adequate sleep is essential for restoring energy levels and promoting overall well-being. Ashwagandha can help support sleep quality in some people by reducing stress and anxiety levels, promoting relaxation and supporting the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Better sleep quality can lead to increased daytime energy and vitality.

Skin and Hair Health

Some women may have specific concerns related to their hair, skin and nails such as premature ageing, acne or brittle nails. Not only this but having healthy hair, skin and nails helps reflect overall health and well-being so supporting the health of these external features, women may also experience improvements in their self-confidence.

Hair, Skin and Nails

Our hair, skin and nails supplements contain a range of nutrients designed to support hair growth, brittle nails and skin deficiencies.  Here is how:

Biotin

Biotion, also known as B7, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in supporting health of hair, skin and nails.

  • Hair- Biotin is involved in production of keratin, a protein that forms the structure of hair strands. Adequate biotin levels help support the growth and strength of hair as well as helping to prevent breakage and brittleness.
  • Skin- Biotin is essential for maintaining healthy skin as it plays a role in synthesising fatty acids necessary for skin repair and maintenance. If you are deficient in biotin this can lead to dry, itchy skin.
  • Nails- Biotin can help increase nail thickness, reduce brittleness and decrease splitting or cracking. Again, biotin supports the production of keratin in the nails, promoting stronger and more resilient nails.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that plays a role in supporting hair, skin and nails. Here is how:

  • Skin- Vitamin E is known for its moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for maintaining healthy skin. It helps protect the skin from damage caused by environmental factors such as UV Radiation, pollution and oxidative stress. Vitamin E can also promote skin repair and regeneration.
  • Hair- Vitamin E supports hair health by improving blood circulation to the scalp, which can promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. Again, this also helps protect hair follicles from oxidative damage.
  • Nails- Vitamin E contributes to strong, healthy nails by promoting nail bed health and preventing dryness and brittleness. It helps moisturise and nourish the nails, keeping them hydrated and less prone to splitting and breaking.

Collagen Formula

Collagen is the most important structural protein in the body. It strengthens tendons, bones and teeth and reinforces connective tissue. Our Collagen Formula contain the essential amino acids and nutrients that help promote collagen synthesis in the body. These include:

Vitamin C

Vitamin C plays a role in collagen production in several ways:

  • Hydroxylation of Proline and Lysine- Collagen synthesis requires the hydroxylation of specific amino acids, proline and lysine, which are essential for the stability and structure of collagen molecules.
  • Antioxidant properties- Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps protect collagen and other structural proteins from damage caused by oxidative stress and free radicals. Oxidative damage can disrupt collagen synthesis and lead to the degradation of existing collagen fibres. By scavenging free radicals and preventing oxidative damage, vitamin C helps maintain the function of collagen in skins, bones, cartilage and other tissues.
Glycine, Lysine and Proline

Gylcine, lysine, and proline are amino acids that play essential roles in collagen production and synthesis:

  • Glycine- Glycine is the smallest amino acid found in collagen. It serves as a building block for collagen molecules, contributing to the structure and stability of collagen fibre. Glycine also plays a role in collagen cross-linking helping to stabilise collagen fibres and maintain the structural integrity of connective tissues.
  • Lysine- This is another important amino acid involved in collagen synthesis. Lysine residues within collagen molecules are essential for the formation of cross-links between collagen chains, known as lysine hydroxylation. These cross-links are critical for stabilising collagen fibres and enhancing the strength and resilience of connective tissues.
  • Proline- This is a unique amino acid that is heavily involved in collagen synthesis. Proline residues play a role in the formation of collagens characteristics triple helix structure. Hydroxylation of proline residues is essential for stabilising the collagen triple helix and promoting proper collagen folding.

Multivitamins

We also offer 2 different Multivitamins for Women.

Multiple for Women and Multiple for Women 40+

These formulations are designed in mind of the nutritional needs of women at different stages of their lives and the changes in nutritional requirements that come with increasing age. These multivitamin/mineral supplements have been formulated to achieve a balance of safety and nutritional value for long-term supplementation. As we get older our absorption of micronutrients becomes less, as changes in the gastrointestinal tract occur such as increased gastric emptying time, decreased saliva, decreased gastric acid secretion, decreased intestinal motility and decreased absorptive capacity of intestinal cells.

All the ingredients in Multiple for Women and Multiple for Women 40+ are in highly bioavailable forms. The more bioavailable, the more is used in the body.

Womens health

As we try to empower women worldwide to prioritise their health and well-being, it is essential to recognise the significance of supplementation in contemplating a balanced lifestyle. From supporting reproductive health to energy levels and promoting vibrant skin, hair and nails, supplements tailored to women’s unique needs can be invaluable supporters on the journey to wellness. Together let’s appreciate the power of self-care and nourishment, empowering women to thrive and flourish in every aspect of their lives.

Here are also a few ways you can enjoy some self-care:

  • Prioritise Sleep- ensure you are getting enough quality sleep each night. Aim for 7=9 hours of uninterrupted sleep to support overall well-being.
  • Nourish your body- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
  • Move your body- Incorporate regular physical exercise into your routine, whether it's through yoga, walking, dancing or any other form of exercise you enjoy. Exercise not only benefits your physical health but also boosts mood and reduces stress.
  • Practise mindfulness- take time for mindfulness practises such as meditation, deep breathing exercises or journalling to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels.
  • Connect with others- Strong relationships with friends and families and supportive communities are really important.
  • Indulge in self-care rituals- Treat yourself to regular self-care rituals whether it's taking a relaxing bath, enjoying a cup of herbal tea or practising skincare routines or including in hobbies you love.
  • Unplug and disconnect- Take breaks from technology and screens to give your mind a rest and engage in activities that promote relaxation and creativity such as reading, crafts etc.
  • Practise gratitude- take time each day to reflect on the things you are grateful for. Practising gratitude can help shift your focus toward the positive aspects of life and improve overall well-being.

stacie henson metabolics nutrition advisorStacie Henson has been working at Metabolics for two years and has immersed herself in learning more about Metabolics products and nutrition generally.

She has completed basic nutrition courses and recently completed a Level 4 Nutrition Diploma. Stacie is currently studying for a Level 4 Transformational Nutrition course to further her experience and knowledge to better support Metabolics customers.