8 supplements to purchase for a healthy weekend and beyond
If your body is talking to you, maybe it's time to start listening to it. With Hormone balancing supplements now available at the click of a button, it can seamlessly ease the process of taking care of our body.
From brain fog to extreme fatigue our body gives us subtle hints which we often ignore and overlook due to the stress of our daily schedules.
To address the issue from the core, there a myriad of natural hormone balancing supplements to help infuse your body with specific nutrients for optimal function. Most hormonal imbalances occur due to an imbalanced diet and can be restored with the help of the correct supplements. Why is it important to have supplements?
Balancing hormones is crucial for maintaining overall health, as hormones regulate many essential functions in the body, including metabolism, mood, sleep, reproduction, and immune response. While a well-balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle can help maintain hormonal balance, certain factors like stress, aging, poor diet, or environmental toxins can disrupt this balance. To prevent nutrient deficiencies
Certain vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients are key to the production and regulation of hormones. For example, Magnesium helps in balancing cortisol (the stress hormone) and supports the production of estrogen and testosterone. Zinc is critical for the function of the thyroid gland and the production of testosterone. Vitamin D affects many hormones, including those related to calcium regulation and reproductive health. Stress Management
Chronic stress can lead to elevated cortisol levels, which can affect everything from sleep patterns to weight gain and reproductive health. Adaptogenic supplements like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil are believed to help the body adapt to stress and regulate cortisol levels, helping to bring hormones back into balance. Gut Health and Hormones
The gut plays a role in hormone balance, particularly estrogen detoxification. A healthy gut microbiome can help regulate hormones, while an unhealthy one can contribute to imbalances. Probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes may help maintain gut health, which indirectly supports hormone regulation.
While each body is different and requires a set of varied minerals, these general supplements can work wonders with their natural ingredients such as magnesium, Vitamin D, zinc, Iodine, Ashwagandha, probiotics and more.
As Some vitamin deficiencies are linked to hormone-related health concerns affecting women, and research discussed in this article suggests certain supplements might help alleviate symptoms related to hormone imbalances.
So, if you're on the lookout for your next purchase of hormonal balancing supplements, swipe through our exclusive guide. aime
Balance & Glow Dhs175 available on Niche-Beauty.com alo
Chill Capsules Dhs170. Shop from revolve.com Dr. Barbara Sturm
Skin Tea Molecular Herbal Infusion Dhs220. Shop from eu.drsturm.com JS Health
Hormone + PMS Support Dhs183. Shop from jshealthvitmains.com – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @moonjuice
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Khaleej Times
29-04-2025
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Female students face more sports-related injuries, say doctors
Female students experience more sports-related injuries, say doctors in the UAE, adding that their distinct anatomy and hormonal differences make women more vulnerable to certain injuries. While injuries can occur at any age and to anybody, the highest risk is seen among those aged 12 to 17. This, doctors emphasised, highlights the importance of implementing injury prevention strategies within school sports programmes. Jena Kiwan sustained an ankle injury during a Physical Education (PE) class in school.'I slipped while attempting to catch a pass during a PE class while participating in a basketball activity at school. This fall led to a significant ankle injury. School authorities responded swiftly, informing my parents and ensuring that I receive immediate medical attention,' she said. The Egyptian expat added, 'Following an orthopaedic evaluation, the injury was confirmed to be an ankle fracture. My doctor recommended immobilisation with a cast and a recovery period of six to eight weeks. In addition, a rehabilitation plan involving ten physiotherapy sessions has been prescribed to support post-cast recovery.' Jena's treating doctor emphasised the importance of reviewing safety measures and injury prevention strategies in school sports programmes. 'This is particularly important for female students as they appear to be at a higher risk of such incidents.' What are the most common injuries ? Dr Kiran Sasi, specialist Hand Surgeon with Prime Hospital, said, 'The most common injuries seen associated with basketball in children are ankle strain/sprain, finger strain/sprain, finger fracture, knee strain/sprain and head concussion.' 'Basketball injuries happen more to girls than boys due to difference in muscles. Those with knock-knees tend to be more prone for knee and ankle injuries,' he added. Healthcare professionals pointed out that children between the ages of 5 and 15 are at risk of fractures with direct trauma by the ball or teammate. They are also prone to develop pain and inflammation around the growth centers of bones due to overuse with exercise. This is referred to as osteochondrosis and usually resolves spontaneously after age 15. Dr Sherif Ahmed Ban, Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon, Burjeel Day Surgery Center, Al Reem Island, said, 'Children who display laxity of ligaments, a hereditary trait, are more likely to get an injury than other team players. We always instruct these children to focus on muscle-strengthening activities to avoid injury. Other children who may suffer from Vitamin D deficiency could be more prone to bone fractures. It is essential to check blood levels of vitamin D routinely and use supplements accordingly if necessary.' 'I would like to encourage all children to stay healthy and active and be routinely involved in sports. Bone health is like a bank account; the more you invest in it at a young age, the healthier you will be as an adult,' he added. Notably, some schools in Dubai have appointed a strength and conditioning coach to help students prepare their bodies for active sports training. Mike Lowery, Director of Sport, GEMS Metropole School – Motor City, said, 'We believe that prevention is better than cure. To that end, we employ a full-time strength and conditioning coach and all children in our active school (Years 7-9) receive a physical conditioning that prepares them for the stresses their bodies will face while playing sport. This ensures that age-related and growth-related injuries are prevented via interventions within the school curriculum. 'We also teach recovery as part of our individual athlete programme for our national- and international-level athletes. Bespoke warmup routines, stretching, and liaison with our external partners – for physiotherapy, for example – ensure that we are all working together to offer students everything they need to excel.' Gendered approach To complement this approach, the school has recently installed two professional cold-water recovery units from its sponsors, the 'Kula Recovery Zone' (the brand offers innovative ice baths and cold-water therapy solutions). 'Students have access to this free of charge. We also hold seminars on foam rolling, sleep, and post-exercise nutrition to ensure students' bodies are ready for sport. Additionally, this issue is gendered as boys and girls have differing needs. With girls achieving physical maturity before boys, their bodies need specific requirements.' The school's strength and conditioning plans are therefore both gender- and age-specific, ensuring all children receive what is right for them at the correct developmental age. 'Our nutrition plans are also differentiated by sport and gender, because, again, girls have differing requirements due to physiological changes during adolescence and the required micro-nutrients need to be factored in,' added Lowery. Highlighting their vision. Nav Iqbal, Principal/CEO, GEMS Metropole School – Motor City, said, 'It is not just about training elite student-athletes – it's about sustaining them. With cutting-edge equipment and our groundbreaking Recovery Lab, we support peak performance while actively reducing injury risks.'
Emirates Woman
25-04-2025
- Emirates Woman
8 supplements to purchase for a healthy weekend and beyond
If your body is talking to you, maybe it's time to start listening to it. With Hormone balancing supplements now available at the click of a button, it can seamlessly ease the process of taking care of our body. From brain fog to extreme fatigue our body gives us subtle hints which we often ignore and overlook due to the stress of our daily schedules. To address the issue from the core, there a myriad of natural hormone balancing supplements to help infuse your body with specific nutrients for optimal function. Most hormonal imbalances occur due to an imbalanced diet and can be restored with the help of the correct supplements. Why is it important to have supplements? Balancing hormones is crucial for maintaining overall health, as hormones regulate many essential functions in the body, including metabolism, mood, sleep, reproduction, and immune response. While a well-balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle can help maintain hormonal balance, certain factors like stress, aging, poor diet, or environmental toxins can disrupt this balance. To prevent nutrient deficiencies Certain vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients are key to the production and regulation of hormones. For example, Magnesium helps in balancing cortisol (the stress hormone) and supports the production of estrogen and testosterone. Zinc is critical for the function of the thyroid gland and the production of testosterone. Vitamin D affects many hormones, including those related to calcium regulation and reproductive health. Stress Management Chronic stress can lead to elevated cortisol levels, which can affect everything from sleep patterns to weight gain and reproductive health. Adaptogenic supplements like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil are believed to help the body adapt to stress and regulate cortisol levels, helping to bring hormones back into balance. Gut Health and Hormones The gut plays a role in hormone balance, particularly estrogen detoxification. A healthy gut microbiome can help regulate hormones, while an unhealthy one can contribute to imbalances. Probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes may help maintain gut health, which indirectly supports hormone regulation. While each body is different and requires a set of varied minerals, these general supplements can work wonders with their natural ingredients such as magnesium, Vitamin D, zinc, Iodine, Ashwagandha, probiotics and more. As Some vitamin deficiencies are linked to hormone-related health concerns affecting women, and research discussed in this article suggests certain supplements might help alleviate symptoms related to hormone imbalances. So, if you're on the lookout for your next purchase of hormonal balancing supplements, swipe through our exclusive guide. aime Balance & Glow Dhs175 available on alo Chill Capsules Dhs170. Shop from Dr. Barbara Sturm Skin Tea Molecular Herbal Infusion Dhs220. Shop from JS Health Hormone + PMS Support Dhs183. Shop from – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @moonjuice
Gulf News
18-03-2025
- Gulf News
Soak up the sun, wisely! How to balance Vitamin D with skin protection
The benefits of Vitamin D extend far beyond bone health—it plays a crucial role in modulating the immune system, reducing inflammation, and even supporting heart function. Shutterstock Sometimes, you need more than just a pocketful of sunshine. The truth is, sunshine isn't just for brightening your day or inspiring cheery songs, it's a fundamental pillar of both physical and mental well-being. Fueling your body's production of Vitamin D? Check. Boosting your mood? Double check. Supporting vital biological functions? Absolutely. Yet, in an era of indoor lifestyles and SPF-heavy routines, where confusion lingers over exactly how much sunlight is enough—it's time to shed some light on why sunshine remains essential. So, what makes it so vital? The Vitamin D connection: Why sunlight is irreplaceable Dubai-based physician Niyati Ahuja breaks it down: Vitamin D, often dubbed the sunshine vitamin, is synthesized in the skin when exposed to ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. 'You need it for calcium absorption, bone health, immune function, and cardiovascular health,' she explains. Without adequate Vitamin D, the body struggles to absorb calcium efficiently, leading to weakened bones and a higher risk of osteoporosis. This is particularly concerning for those at risk of fractures, such as older adults and postmenopausal women, Ahuja notes. But the benefits of Vitamin D extend far beyond bone health—it plays a crucial role in modulating the immune system, reducing inflammation, and even supporting heart function. Research confirms this: Studies have linked sufficient Vitamin D levels to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, with research published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism suggesting that deficiencies may contribute to hypertension and other heart-related issues. Even bone health relies heavily on sunlight exposure. Research in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition highlights that individuals with adequate sun exposure tend to have stronger bones and lower incidences of fractures compared to those with Vitamin D deficiencies. In short, the consequences of Vitamin D deficiency are far-reaching—it's not just about osteoporosis. Low levels have been linked to weakened immune function, increased risk of chronic diseases, and even mood disorders like depression. Sunlight, quite literally, fuels well-being. Mental health benefits: The sunlight-serotonin connection There's something undeniably calming about basking in the sunlight, even for just a few seconds. The shift in mood is almost immediate—perhaps that's why language so often ties sunshine to joy, warmth, and cheer. As Ahuja and Elisabeth Harlow, a holistic physician based in Abu Dhabi explain, beyond its physiological advantages, sunlight has a profound impact on our mood. 'When you're exposed to natural light, serotonin, a neurotransmitter that promotes feelings of well-being and happiness is triggered,' says Harlow. A 2020 study in The Lancet Psychiatry found that individuals who spent more time in natural sunlight reported lower rates of anxiety and depression. This explains why Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression that occurs during the darker months, is often treated with light therapy to mimic sunlight exposure. Moreover, spending time in sunlight helps regulate melatonin production, the hormone responsible for sleep cycles, adds Harlow. A 2014 study published in Sleep Health that office workers with more access to natural light had better sleep quality and reduced daytime fatigue compared to those in artificially lit environments. Sunlight and immune system support Sun exposure doesn't just boost mood, it also strengthens the immune system. Ahuja adds, 'It helps in modulating immune responses, helping the body fend off infections and reduce inflammation. It's particularly relevant given the increasing prevalence of autoimmune diseases and frequent viral infections. How much sunlight is enough? As both Harlow and Ahuja explain, the amount of sun exposure needed varies based on factors like skin type, location, and time of year. Generally, it is recommended to have 10–30 minutes of midday sun exposure on bare skin, such as arms, legs, or face, several times a week to maintain healthy Vitamin D levels. However, darker skin tones require slightly longer exposure due to higher melanin levels, which reduce UVB absorption. For those living in regions with limited sunlight, dietary sources like fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and supplements can help maintain adequate Vitamin D levels, but they may not fully replicate the benefits of direct sun exposure. Balancing sun exposure and sun protection This is where it gets tricky. While sunlight is essential, overexposure to UV rays increases the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. The key is moderation—brief sun exposure without sunscreen is beneficial, but prolonged exposure should be managed with SPF protection and shade. Ahuja adds, 'Studies suggest that wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher still allows for some Vitamin D synthesis while reducing harmful UV damage.' · Brief exposure without sunscreen is beneficial, but prolonged time outdoors should be managed with SPF 15+ to prevent skin damage. · Morning or late afternoon sun exposure can be a safer alternative if UV rays are too harsh at midday. · Wear sunglasses with UV protection to shield Wear lightweight, UV-protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat if staying outside for an extended eyes from excessive sun. The final word: Embrace the sun, wisely Soak up the sun—yes, just as Sheryl Crow sang—but do it wisely. Indeed, sunlight is a natural and powerful ally in maintaining overall health as it helps our body produce Vitamin D, boost our mood, regulate sleep and supports the immune system. In a world where screen time and indoor living are more common than ever, making a conscious effort to soak up natural sunlight, even in small doses—can have lasting benefits for both the body and mind. So, step outside, take a deep breath, and let the sun work its magic, just don't forget your balance between exposure and protection. Sign up for the Daily Briefing Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox
