Many people are turning to plant-based protein powders as an alternative to traditional whey or dairy-based protein powders. Plant proteins offer numerous health benefits and can provide the essential nutrients needed for optimal nutrition. However, some plant-based protein powders contain unhealthy additives like flavours, stabilisers, emulsifiers and other chemicals which can have potential side effects.
When choosing a plant-based protein powder, it is important to look for one without added flavours, stabilisers or emulsifiers. Many of these artificial ingredients can cause digestive issues, and may result in fatigue.
One common additive in many plant protein powder products is maltodextrin. Maltodextrin is a starch derived from corn that is used as an artificial sweetener in protein powder products. Although maltodextrin does not have any known adverse health effects, it does add calories and carbohydrates to your diet that may not be necessary.
Another common additive is carrageenan, derived from red seaweed and used as an emulsifier in many processed foods and drinks including plant based protein powders. Studies have linked carrageenan consumption with inflammation in the body which can lead to long term health problems such as joint pain and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Finally, there are natural flavourings found in some plant based protein powders which may contain chemicals like MSG (monosodium glutamate) and FD&C Yellow Nos 5 & 6 (sodium benzoate). These chemicals can irritate sensitive individuals or those with food allergies so it’s best to avoid them if possible by looking for plain flavoured versions of the product instead.
In conclusion, when selecting a plant based protein powder opt for one without added flavours, stabilisers or emulsifiers to avoid potential side effects associated with these unnatural ingredients. Choose the plain version of the product rather than those containing artificial sweeteners or flavourings for the most natural option available.
]]>This choclate protein vegan muffin recipe is simpler than most, but still packs a delicious and nutritious punch. With just 7 ingredients, it's quick to make and perfect for an after-lunch or mid-afternoon snack.
Ingredients
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup of Blissful Brown Rice and Cacao Protein
2 tablespoons maple syrup
¼ cup chia seeds
1 cup dairy free milk such as almond milk
⅓ cup raisins -
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 12 slot muffin tin with oil or nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a medium size bowl, combine the rolled oats, Blissful Protein, maple syrup, chia seeds, dairy free milk, raisins and ground cinnamon until combined.
3. Spoon the batter evenly between each muffin slot in your greased pan, (optional you can sprinkle some oats on top before baking). Bake for 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean after being inserted into one of the muffins.
]]>When it comes to switching to a plant-based diet, there are many things to consider. To help make the switch easier, here are 10 steps you can take as you transition.
1. Start slowly – As with any big change, it’s best to start slowly and gradually build your way up. Begin by having at least one plant-based meal each day and gradually increase that until you’re eating all or mostly plant-based.
2. Educate yourself – When making the switch to a plant-based diet, it’s important to educate yourself about nutrition and what foods provide certain nutrients that your body needs for optimal health. Try Including plant based Protein powders as they can help add that extra protein boost to your plan with ease.
3. Know your protein sources – protein is an essential nutrient for good health so be sure to incorporate plenty of legumes, nuts, seeds and whole grains into your meals to ensure that you get enough protein on a daily basis.
4. Focus on vegetables – vegetables should be at the forefront of any healthy diet plan, no matter what kind of diet you’re following. Choose dark green leafy vegetables such as kale and spinach as well as colorful bell peppers, eggplants and more when creating your meals.
5. Eat more fruits – fruits are an important part of any diet because they provide vitamins, minerals and fibre that keep us feeling full longer between meals and snacks throughout the day. Aim for two servings per day for maximum benefit.
6. Stock up on pantry staples – make sure that your pantry is stocked with tortillas, beans, quinoa, nuts/seeds/nut butters and other basics so that meals can come together quickly during busy weeks!
7. Experiment with new recipes – don’t be afraid to try out new recipes or flavour combinations in order to keep things interesting! There are plenty of delicious vegan cookbooks available these days—try some out!
8. Meal prep ahead of time – meal prep is key when transitioning to a plant-based diet so make sure to set aside some time each week to prepare food ahead of time so it can easily be reheated later in the week when needed!
9. Find support – making dietary changes can often feel overwhelming or lonely so find people who will provide emotional support during this process (and who won’t judge!) It’s important to surround yourself with positive people who understand why you made this choice and can encourage you along the way!
10. Celebrate your successes - celebrate every small milestone along the way whether it's trying a new vegetable or meal prepping like a pro, these achievements should not go unnoticed!
Congratulate yourself for sticking with it even if just for today; tomorrow brings another opportunity!
]]>Are you a peanut butter protein lover? If so, you'll be happy to know that there are plenty of ways to incorporate our award winning Nutty Nutty Peanut Butter Super Protein into your diet. Here are five ideas to get you started:
1. Add it to oatmeal or smoothies. that proteins Peanut butter protein is a great way to add some extra protein and flavor to oatmeal or smoothies. Simply add 3 table spoons to your favorite recipe and enjoy.
2. Use it in baking. Nutty Nutty Peanut Butter Protein can be used in all sorts of baking recipes, from cookies to cakes. Simply substitute our peanut butter protein powder for some of the flour called for in the recipe.
3. Make Nutty Nutty Peanut Butter Protein Bars. If you're looking for a healthy and delicious snack, look no further than peanut butter protein bars. There are plenty of recipes available online, or you can get creative and make your own.
4. Use it as a dipping sauce. that proteins Peanut Butter Protein makes a great dipping sauce for fruits or pretzels. Simply mix it with some milk or nut oil and you're good to go.
5. Enjoy it straight up. If you're really craving peanut butter, there's nothing wrong with enjoying it straight from the spoon. Nutty Nutty Peanut Butter Protein makes a great snack on its own, or you can add it to milk for a delicious shake.
So there you have it, five ways to enjoy peanut butter protein. Whether you're looking for a healthy snack or a way to add some extra protein to your diet, peanut butter protein is a great option. So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and give it a try!
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Peanut butter is a type of food paste or spread made from peanuts. It often contains additional ingredients that modify the taste or texture, such as salt, sweeteners, or emulsifiers. Peanut butter is popular in many countries, especially in North America where it is a common ingredient in many breakfast and lunch dishes.
Peanuts have been cultivated by humans for an amazing 7600 years! Anthropologists believe the earliest domesticated peanuts were grown on the slopes of the Andes mountains in South America.
The peanut was first brought to the Old World by Portuguese and Spanish explorers in the 16th century. After the colonisation of the New World, sailers (who valued peanuts as they were easy to store on board ships) carried peanuts to Africa where they became common in the western tropical region. They were also introduced into East Asia from where they made their way into China in the 1600s.
The peanut butter we know today was was apparently invented by an American doctor from St Louis in the 1890s. Shortly afterwards Dr John Harvey Kellogg patented a “Process of Preparing Nut Meal” and in 1903 Dr Ambrose Straub patented a peanut butter-making machine.
Peanut butter is a source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamins and minerals. It is also relatively low in sugar and calories. Because of these nutrients, peanut butter can help you lose weight, reduce your risk of heart disease, and improve your overall health.
that protein's Nutty Nutty Peanut Butter Super Protein has been perfectly described as peanut butter in a glass. The biggest difference is that we DON"T add any chemicals or additives to create the award winning great taste.
So, there you have it, we told you about peanut butter and some of its many facts. Spread peanut butter on your morning toast, create a protein packed smoothie or shake, enjoy it in a PB&J sandwich, or use it in recipes for a delicious and nutritious treat.
]]>Let's take a look at the history of protein shakes. What might be called the first Protein shakes were first created in 1911 by a German strongman bodybuilder Eugene Sandow called health and strength chocolate
The first protein shake mix was introduced in the United States in the 1950s by Irvin Johnson who was a bodybuilder and a scientist. It was marketed as a dietary supplement for bodybuilders and weightlifters Called "High Protein Food"
Protein shakes really started to become popular in the 1970s and 1980s, thanks in part to the rise of fitness culture. Celebrities like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jane Fonda helped to make working out and lifting weights more mainstream, and protein shakes became a staple for many people who were looking to get in shape.
Today, protein shakes are consumed by people of all ages and fitness levels. They're often used as a meal replacement or post-workout snack, and there are countless different flavours and formulas to choose from.
Vegan or plant based protein powders have now become as popular as dairy based due to many myths being dispelled about which is better. Whether you're trying to build muscle or just want to boost your protein intake, there's a plant based protein shake out there that's perfect for you. That protein have created the best range of plant based chemical free protein blends for you to use in your daily nutrition plan, come and take a look!
]]>Most people know that protein is important for muscle growth and repair. But what many don't realize is that protein is essential for women as well. In fact, protein has unique benefits for women that make it especially important to include in their diets.
Here's why protein is so important for women:
Protein helps maintain lean muscle mass.
As women age, they tend to lose muscle mass. This process, called sarcopenia, can lead to frailty and a decrease in overall strength. Protein helps to counteract sarcopenia by preserving lean muscle mass. In one study, postmenopausal women who supplemented with protein lost less muscle mass than those who didn't supplement with protein.
Protein helps with weight loss.
If you're trying to lose weight, protein can help. First, protein increases satiety, or feelings of fullness. This means you're less likely to overeat and pack on unwanted pounds. Second, protein helps preserve lean muscle mass during weight loss. When you lose weight, you want to lose fat, not muscle. Third, protein has a high thermic effect, which means your body burns more calories digesting it than other foods.
Protein helps manage blood sugar levels.
Blood sugar fluctuations can be a big problem for women, especially those who have diabetes or are at risk for developing diabetes. Protein helps to stabilize blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. In one study, women who ate a high-protein diet had better blood sugar control than those who ate a lower-protein diet.
Protein improves bone health.
Bone loss is a common problem for women as they age. This can lead to osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones. Protein plays an important role in bone health by helping to build and maintain bone mass. In one study, postmenopausal women who supplemented with protein had greater bone density than those who didn't supplement with protein.
Protein helps reduce the risk of heart disease.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States. Diet plays a role in heart health, and protein is an important part of a healthy diet. Protein helps reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. In one study, women who ate a high-protein diet had a lower risk of developing.
So make sure you get enough high quality protein by using that proteins plant based blends with no hidden ingredients or added chemicals they are a pure source of high quality protein...and they taste great too!
]]>1. Plant protein is an excellent source of nutrients.
If you're plant based or vegan and looking for a high-quality protein source, look no further than plant protein powders. Plant protein is an excellent source of nutrients and has a variety of health benefits.
Plant protein powder is a complete protein, meaning it contains all the essential amino acids your body needs. It's also low in fat and calories, and is an excellent source of fiber. Plant protein powder is also a good source of iron and calcium.
2. It can help you lose weight and keep it off.
Plant protein powder has a number of health benefits. It can help you lose weight, build muscle, and improve your overall health.
If you're looking to lose weight, plant protein powder can help you by keeping you feeling full longer. It can also help you burn more calories, and build muscle.
3. It can help lower your cholesterol levels.
Plant protein powder can also improve your overall health. It's a good source of antioxidants, and can help reduce inflammation.Plant protein powder has also been shown to lower cholesterol and blood pressure
4. It can boost your energy levels and improve your mood.
If you're looking to build muscle, plant protein powder can help you by providing your body with the essential amino acids it needs to build muscle. Plant protein powder is also a good source of iron, which is essential for muscle growth and energy. If you add in or choose a plant protein with high levels of real cacao then you will also get the mood boosting effects from that. In general plant protein can help you live a healthier, longer life.
Lastly and not the least by a long way and very important right now, most plant protein is environmentally friendly and comes from sustainable sources. You can look after your health, be kind to animals and save the planet…just a little bit super hero or what!
]]>Chocolate is one of the world's most popular foods. And for good reason! Not only does it taste amazing, but it also contains a number of nutrients that can boost your mood and make you feel good.
One of the main ingredients in chocolate is cacao. Cacao is rich in a number of compounds that have been shown to have positive effects on mood and cognitive function. For example, cacao contains flavonoids, which are a type of antioxidant. Flavonoids have been shown to improve blood flow to the brain, which can help improve cognitive function.
Flavonoids can help to reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage. They’ve also been linked to better heart health, by helping to lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels. And some studies have even suggested that chocolate may help to improve and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
So, if you’re looking for a delicious way to boost your mood and feel good, chocolate may be the answer! Just be sure to choose cacao and make sure there is enough cacao in the product so you can get the most benefits.
At that protein we use more cacao in our protein blends than anyone else and so we will help you get many of the positive health benefits from adding one of our cacao blends into your daily diet. Blissful Brown Rice and Cacao, Chirpy Chirpy Choca Mocha and our Blissful Double Choc Protein Porridge all contain high percentages of real cacao.
You can enjoy your chocolate and get the positive effects too!
]]>If you’re looking to go vegan, or just add more plant-based foods into your diet, you may be wondering what the best way to do it is. There are so many options out there, and it can be tough to know where to start. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best plant-based foods to eat to make the switch to a plant-based diet easy and enjoyable!
There are many reasons why people choose to eat a plant-based diet. For some, it’s a health decision; for others, it’s an ethical choice. Whatever your reason for wanting to try out this type of eating, know that there are plenty of delicious and nutritious options available. Here are some of the best plant-based foods to eat:
– Beans and legumes: These are a great source of plant protein and fiber. Some of our favorite beans to eat are black beans, lentils, and chickpeas. You can use them in a variety of dishes, such as soups, stews, salads, or even just as a side dish.
– Whole grains: Grains are another great source of plant protein and fiber. Some of our favorites include quinoa, brown rice, and oats. You can use them in a variety of dishes, or even just as a simple side dish.
– Vegetables: vegetables are an important part of any diet, but they are especially important on a plant-based diet. They are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Some of our favorites include broccoli, kale, and carrots.
– Fruits: Fruits are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They can be eaten as a snack or used in a variety of recipes. Some of our favorites include apples, bananas, and berries.
– Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds are a great source of plant protein, healthy fats, and vitamins and minerals. Some of our favorites include almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds. You can use them in a variety of recipes or just eat them as a snack.
Making the switch to a plant-based diet can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Start by slowly adding more plant-based foods into your diet. Experiment with different recipes and find ones that you enjoy. You may be surprised at how easy and delicious plant-based eating can be! If you have any questions or need some recipe ideas, go to www.thatprotein recipe section.
]]>When it comes to plant-based protein powders, not all are created equal. In fact, many popular brands use very little cacao in their products, opting for cheaper fillers instead. But at that protein, we believe that more cacao is better for you. Here's why:
Cacao is a real superfood. It's packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can help support a healthy immune system, improve cognitive function, and even help reduce stress levels. And because our protein powder is made with real cacao, you're getting all of those benefits in every scoop.
Most other chocolate protein powders on the market are made with cocoa powder, which is a processed form of cacao that has been stripped of many of its nutrients. By using real cacao, we're able to preserve all of the health benefits that make this superfood so powerful.
Not only is real cacao better for you, but it also tastes better. If you're used to drinking protein shakes that taste more like chocolate milk than real chocolate, then you're in for a real treat with our powder. The rich, bold flavor of real cacao is truly irresistible.
]]>Why are humans so obsessed with chocolate? We have been cultivating the cacao tree for at least three millennia, and historians believe that ancient Mesoamericans used to drink beverages made from fermented cacao seeds as early as 1900 BC. Cacao is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on Earth. Here are five things we Love about Cacao!
1. Antioxidants
Cacao is one of the highest known plant-based sources of antioxidants, as it contains more than three times as many polyphenols as red wine and up to four times as many as green tea! Antioxidants are molecules that may protect cells from the effects of free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage DNA and cell membranes.
2. Mood lift
Cacao has been shown to improve mood and brain function by increasing levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter, in the central nervous system. Serotonin is the feel-good chemical in your brain that helps regulate mood, appetite, sleep and memory. When cacao powder is fermented into cocoa, its content of the amino acid tryptophan increases dramatically! Polyphenols in cacao have been found to inhibit the breakdown of serotonin, making you feel happy and relaxed!
3. Lowering blood pressure
The polyphenols in cacao appear to help lower blood pressure as they block enzymes that cause arteries to tighten. Scientists believe cacao may lower blood pressure because dark cacao contains a small amount of caffeine. A recent study found that cacao powder is just as effective as coffee at increasing the body's resting metabolic rate, which is significant for heart health and weight loss.
4. Cardiovascular health,
Cacao's magnesium content can help reduce high blood pressure, as it relaxes blood vessels and reduces the risk of thickening arteries, which increases your chances of heart disease. Cacao has been touted for its health benefits, which include anti-inflammatory properties. New research from the University of Toronto suggests cacao could help blood bolster vascular health and even help prevent heart disease.
5. A Source of Magnesium ,
Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a role in hundreds of enzymatic reactions in the human body, including over 300 enzymes related to metabolism. Magnesium-rich cacao can be an excellent way to obtain this important mineral. Cacao contains more than 10 times the magnesium found in other foods.
So the human obsession with chocolate or cacao specifically is truly justified, not only as a great tasting mood booster but one that has a long history of tradition and proven health benefits.
]]>Coffee. It's something you want to drink first thing in the morning, and it's definitely not something you would normally drink late at night or put into your protein shake… right?
WRONG! Let me explain why coffee can actually be a staple for fitness enthusiasts and anyone else who wishes they had energy first thing in the morning:
The caffeine content in coffee is extremely well known. It can help to increase energy and attention, making it a good option for early morning workouts or to perk you up when you're feeling lethargic in the afternoon or early evening.
L-theanine, an amino acid found in coffee beans, has been linked with improving energy levels and concentration.
That protein's Mocha Protein is a complex chemical mixture of carbohydrates, fat, protein and caffeine. It has been hypothesised that the energy-boosting effects of coffee are mainly due to its caffeine content .
Since many people drink coffee first thing in the morning or middle of the day, it's not recommended to mix your protein with coffee at this time, as you don't want to end up with jitters from too much caffeine.
However, coffee can actually be beneficial to your workout! Caffeine is used as a supplement in many pre-workout products because it has been scientifically proven to increase energy and alertness . They are good reasons why adding coffee to your post-workout protein shake might be the answer you need for energy immediately after exercise… just be careful not to double up on your energy drinks!
So next time you're craving energy, skip that energy drink Instead, mix some that protein Chirpy Chirpy Choca Mocha into protein shake for a quick energy boost as that protein only use REAL organic coffee in their plant based protein blend.
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The word chocolate comes from the Aztec word xocolatl, which means "bitter water". The Aztecs first discovered chocolate when they found cacao beans in the rainforest.
They believed that chocolate was a gift from the gods, and they used it to make a drink called chocolatete.
European explorers first discovered chocolate in the 1500s, and they quickly began to import it back to Europe. At first, chocolate was only enjoyed by the wealthy elite, but its popularity soon spread to the general population.
Chocolate is made from cocoa beans, which are the seeds of a chocolate plant. The beans are roasted and ground into a powder, and then mixed with sugar and other ingredients to make chocolate bars, chocolate chips, and other chocolate products.
Chocolate has many health benefits. It is high in antioxidants, which can help protect against disease. It also contains minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and zinc, which are essential for good health.
Chocolate has been used to celebrate special occasions, to show love and friendship, and to reward people for their achievements. Chocolate is now enjoyed by billions of people around the world, and it is one of the most popular foods in the world.
Thanks to chocolate, the world is a sweeter place!
Try that protein high cacao content plant based protein now!
That Proteins I Heart Pumpkin and Chia Super protein makes a delicious heart ❤️ healthy breakfast. Try these recipes and show your heart some love !
High Protein Smoothie made with 250ml B12 fortified nut mylk 25g That Protein I Heart Pumpkin and Chia Super Protein, Handful berries blend well and drink immediately . Cup of green tea
Banana and peanut Butter on Toast. High protein mini smoothie made with 150ml B 12 fortified nut mylk, 15g That Protein I Heart Pumpkin and Chia Super Protein and berries of choice.
Pumpkin and Chia Protein Oats made with 30g porridge, B 12 fortified nut Mylk. 15g That Protein I Heart Pumpkin and Chia Super Protein and topped with berries .
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We all know that porridge helps with heart health and is high in fibre but more information about other health benefits has recently come to light.
1. A new study of over 3000 people has shown that eating 3 portions of whole grains a day (and porridge is a whole grain) can reduce your waist size which makes it an ideal food to help with weight loss.
2. The study showed that eating porridge can help maintain healthy blood pressure and blood sugar levels
3. Oats are a prebiotic which means they help good gut bacteria flourish in your gut.
4. Be educated on the kind of oats you choose as eg instant oats are highly processed and can cause spikes in blood sugar but rolled oats won’t cause these swings.
5. And finally for celiacs or people with gluten intolerance or allergy only gluten free oats are suitable as only gluten free oats are tested to ensure they contain 20 parts per million of less of gluten TP allow them to be legally labelled “gluten free”
That Protein’s Protein Porridges are made with British Gluten Free Oats and tested to ensure they are gluten free. A great choice for breakfast with lots of plant protein and other amazing nutrition from the highest quality natural sources in the blends.
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Brown rice is a wonderful wholegrain which is loaded with fibre, that’s essential for optimum gut health as well as helping to stabilise those blood sugar levels.
Unlike white rice, brown rice retains its amazing nutrients that white rice lacks such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Although brown rice is high in nutrients such as magnesium, selenium, some B vitamins, it’s exceptionally high in manganese. Manganese is a mineral which is vital for many important processes in the body, such as bone development, wound healing, muscle contraction metabolism, nerve function and blood sugar regulation.
But Blissful not only has brown rice, it combines it with the antioxidant powerhouse that is cacao.
Cacao is loaded with antioxidants and has 40x the concentration of antioxidants than blueberries.
Cacao has the highest plant based source of magnesium which is needed for over 300 chemical reactions within the body including supporting heart health, energy production, muscle relaxation, helps turn glucose into energy enabling your brain to work with clarity and focus, and support blood sugar balance.
Cacao also contains 4 amazing mood boosting chemicals serotonin, tryptophan, tyrosine and phenylethylamine, which can help with those feelings of happiness and wellbeing as well as alleviating symptoms of depression.
And not forgetting the high concentration of plant based iron with a whopping a whopping 7.3mg per 100g.
Incorporating the amazing health boosting Blissful Brown Rice & Cacao Super Protein Mix will help to kick start your day.
Neleta Winter
BSc (Hons) dipION mBANT CNHC
Nutritional Practitioner
We don’t use any chemical ingredients in our range only pure nutrition to support a healthy gut and to solve the problem of eating with IBS.
The products are free from FODMAPS
Choose from high protein porridge or a delicious protein powder to fortify your diet.
You can find our IBS friendly and Low Fodmap products here and you can read find out more information in the blog below.
By - Niamh Walsh.
Nutrition and Lifestyle Coach In Wellness Coaching
Although stress does not cause IBS, it is now widely accepted as a disorder of the gut-brain axis (GBA). Understanding what the GBA is and how it operates is key to understanding the link between IBS and stress.
Firstly, the gut has its own nervous system called the enteric nervous system (ENS), also known as ‘the second brain’. This is connected to the brain or central nervous system (CNS) via a two-way highway and allows messages to be carried from the brain to the gut and vice versa. The gut and the brain are in constant communication with each other via the GBA.
Secondly, the enteric nervous system together with the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems make up the autonomic nervous system (ANS), and this controls most of the processes that happen unconsciously in the body including digestion and breathing. The ENS also acts on messages it receives from these two branches of the ANS.
This is where the link between stress and IBS comes into the equation.
The sympathetic nervous system controls the body’s stress or ‘fight or flight’ response whilst the parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for the ‘rest and digest’ state. So, what happens in the body when we experience a stressful event or threat, whether real or perceived? The stress response, activated by the sympathetic nervous system, is only concerned with keeping you alive in that moment and prepares the body accordingly. Blood flow and energy is directed away from non-essential processes such as the gut and digestion and is shunted toward the muscles and heart allowing you to ‘fight or flight’.
We know that changes in gut motility resulting in constipation and/or diarrhoea are a feature in IBS, and this is thought to be driven and worsened by stress via the gut-brain axis. In other words, stress experienced in the brain has a direct effect on the functioning of the gut. We also know that the gut is far more reactive in an IBS sufferer than in those who do not have IBS.
But not all stress is bad, and it is an unavoidable part of life. The problem is not stress itself but rather our perception of it. In contrast to our ancestors who had to react to real physical threats like being chased by a lion, most of the stress we experience now in our daily lives is psychological in nature or perceived threats.
Unfortunately, the body’s stress response does not know the difference between real or perceived stress and reacts in the same way regardless. And the body is not designed to stay in the stress response for prolonged periods of time.
The good news is that you can control how you choose to react to different stressors. The clue is in your perception of the stressor. Your brain is constantly taking cues from your external environment through the different senses of sight, smell, touch, hearing, and taste but your thoughts have a big role to play also.
Here are some techniques you can use to help you deal with stress better
2. Deep breathing
3. Journalling
4. Yoga
5. Prioritising sleep
How you react to stress is largely under your control and using the techniques above can help you to form a healthier relationship with stress.
In answer to the question can IBS be caused by stress? No, although IBS is not specifically caused by stress it can trigger a flare up of symptoms for many patients.
IBS is so unique to everyone and what works for someone else will be different to what works for you. There are many factors that contribute to IBS; your nutrition, sleep, movement, stress management and when you work with me, we address all aspects of your diet and lifestyle to find the solution for you.
If you know that stress is a major trigger for your IBS and would like more support, then you might be interested in my ‘Flare Up Rescue Power Hour’ package.
You can find the details here.
If you want to discuss your options further then you can book a free 15 minute clarity call.
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A vegan nutrition company called ‘That Protein‘ has been announced as a double finalist for two prestigious Nourish Awards. The Nourish Awards has been billed as “The Toughest Health Food Awards in the Industry.”
That Protein’s “Blissful Double Choc Protein Porridge” scooped up a double win for both the “Best Breakfast” product, and the “Best Gut Friendly” product.
Their “Blissful Double Choc Protein Porridge” is a plant-based blend of gluten-free oats, protein, organic raw cacao, cacao nibs, and palmyra nectar (making it high in plant protein, fibre, and B Vitamins). The product was developed to be gut-friendly, and it’s been tested by specialist independent labs to ensure that it’s a low FODMAP and gluten-free product (making it a suitable choice for sufferers of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome).
That Protein avoids using chemical ingredients in their products. Instead, they source natural alternatives, including: chia flour instead of “thickeners,” cacao instead of “chocolate flavour,” and palmyra nectar instead of chemical sweeteners.
But their journey with the Nourish Awards didn’t start here. In fact, this year is the fourth consecutive year that That Protein has been honoured.
Previously, the brand won a Gold award for “Best Protein Powder in the UK” (for their “Nutty Nutty Peanut Butter Super Protein”) in 2018, Gold and Silver in 2019 for their “Blissful Raw Cacao Organic Super Protein,” and Silver in 2020 for their “Chirpy Chirpy Choca Mocha Organic Super Protein.”
That Protein’s Founder Darlene McCormick said: “We are delighted to be a finalist for two Nourish Awards, – having made it through out of hundreds of entries. We work very hard to make innovative and delicious plant-based nutrition to support health and wellness for everyone, and free-from/low-fodmap products for those with special dietary needs.”
The business was set up by Darlene McCormick 6 years ago (who as well as being a double Nourish Awards winner, is also a Northern Ireland Businesswoman of the Year). Previously, Darlene worked in Public Relations, but she sold her PR firm, – which was when she decided to reassess her next step.
“As a vegan, at the time (not so much now), I found it difficult to find tasty, healthy, vegan foods to support my own wellness. They weren’t widely available at all. I had an idea to create a vegan nutrition brand, but I decided to study as a nutritionist first, and to undertake a more detailed study in plant-based nutrition at Cornell University,” explained Darlene.
Her time at Cornell University solidified her idea of creating a brand that was based around high-protein vegan nutrition, especially as around that time, – there was a growing demand for health food and vegan products that were suitable for those with specialist dietary needs (poor gut health, dairy-free, and gluten-free, etc).
Her first products were “super proteins:” a powerful blend of vegan protein powders built from interesting sources, including pumpkin seeds, protein powders, and superfoods. And then came her Protein Porridges.
Since launching, the brand has amassed a large social media following. They’ve been featured in various publications, and they’ve built a cult-like customer following.
Find out more here: www.thatprotein.com