NOW Foods is proud to support Stress and IBS Awareness Month this April, focusing on the theme “Healthy Mind, Happy Gut: Navigating Stress and Digestive Health.” This initiative underscores the importance of understanding stress, recognising its impact on digestive health, and providing solutions for managing stress, anxiety, and IBS symptoms.
Stress Awareness Month prompts us to acknowledge the signs of burnout and learn effective stress management techniques. NOW Foods aims to empower individuals by sharing coping strategies for anxiety and stress, emphasising their connection to digestive health. Studies have shown that stress and anxiety can significantly affect digestive disorders like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
Five coping strategies for anxiety and stress:
- Mindfulness and Meditation: Practice mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga. These activities help calm the mind, reduce stress hormones, and promote relaxation.
- Physical Activity: Engage in regular physical activity or exercise, as it releases endorphins that improve mood and reduce stress. Choose activities you enjoy, whether walking, dancing, cycling, or participating in sports.
- Healthy Lifestyle Habits: Maintain a balanced diet, sleep well, and avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption. A healthy lifestyle can improve resilience to stress and anxiety.
- Social Support: Stay connected with friends, family, or support groups. Talking about your feelings and experiences with trusted individuals can provide emotional support and perspective, reducing feelings of isolation and stress.
- Time Management and Prioritisation: Organise your tasks, set realistic goals, and prioritise essential activities. Breaking tasks into manageable steps and focusing on one thing at a time can reduce feelings of overwhelm and anxiety.
IBS is a prevalent condition affecting millions globally, often posing challenges in daily life management. Stress management is pivotal in alleviating IBS symptoms, highlighting the importance of holistic approaches that address mental and digestive wellness.
Here are five common signs of IBS:
- Abdominal Pain and Cramping: One of the hallmark symptoms of IBS is recurrent abdominal pain or discomfort. This pain is often described as cramping and can vary in intensity and location within the abdomen.
- Changes in Bowel Habits: IBS can cause changes in bowel movements, leading to diarrhoea, constipation, or alternating periods of both. Individuals with IBS may experience urgency when needing to use the bathroom or feel like they still need to empty their bowels.
- Bloating and Gas: Many people with IBS experience bloating and increased gas production. This can contribute to discomfort, a feeling of fullness, and visible abdominal distention.
- Bowel Movement Urgency: Individuals with IBS may need a sudden and urgent bowel movement. This urgency can be challenging to control and may lead to anxiety or disruptions in daily activities.
- Mucus in Stool: In some cases, IBS can cause mucus and stool passage. While small amounts of mucus are normal, persistent or excessive mucus production may indicate underlying digestive issues like IBS.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can overlap with other gastrointestinal conditions, so it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management plan if you suspect you have IBS.
As part of its commitment to promoting a Healthy Mind and Happy Gut, NOW Foods is proud to spotlight key products that support stress relief, anxiety management, and digestive health. These products, which include NOW Foods Liquid Chlorophyll, Super Enzymes, Magnesium Malate, Sleep, Optimal Digestive System, and Mood Support, are designed to provide natural solutions for holistic wellness.
NOW Foods Liquid Chlorophyll – RRSP: R599-00
Key Benefits:
- Supports detoxification and cleansing processes in the body.
- Promotes healthy digestion and gut health.
- It helps neutralise body odours and bad breath.
NOW Foods Super Enzymes – RRSP: R649-00
Key Benefits:
- Supports healthy digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Assists in breaking down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.
- Helps alleviate digestive discomfort after meals.
NOW Foods Magnesium Malate – RRSP: R729-00
Key Benefits:
- Supports muscle relaxation and stress relief.
- Promotes healthy energy production and metabolism.
- Helps maintain optimal magnesium levels in the body.
NOW Foods Sleep – RRSP: R649-00
Key Benefits:
- Promotes restful sleep and relaxation.
- Supports healthy sleep patterns and quality.
- Helps reduce stress and anxiety before bedtime.
NOW Foods Optimal Digestive System – RRSP: R579-00
Key Benefits:
- Supports overall digestive health and function.
- Helps maintain a healthy balance of gut flora.
- Assists in nutrient absorption and waste elimination.
NOW Foods Mood Support – RRSP: R549-00
Key Benefits:
- Promotes emotional well-being and stress resilience.
- Supports a positive mood and mental clarity.
- Helps manage occasional feelings of anxiety and tension.
Join NOW Foods this April to celebrate Stress and IBS Awareness Month and discover the benefits of holistic wellness for a balanced and fulfilling life.
NOW Foods are available from selected retailers or Takealot.
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About NOW Foods:
NOW Foods is a reputable supplier of natural products committed to empowering individuals towards healthier lifestyles. Prioritising quality, purity, and effectiveness, NOW Foods presents a wide array of supplements, personal care items, and natural foods, all aimed at promoting overall well-being.
Established on the belief that top-notch natural health goods should be accessible to everyone, NOW Foods operates as a family-owned and operated business, deeply dedicated to fostering good health by providing superior quality natural products at competitive prices.
Environmental Responsibility:
As a manufacturer of over 1,400 products, NOW is acutely aware of its potential environmental impact and actively works to reduce its carbon footprint through various initiatives:
- Annual saving of 1.3 million gallons of water via water conservation efforts
- Annual saving of over 600,000 kWh through energy-efficient lighting
- Annual recycling of over 400 tons of material (including 100% of NOW’s e-waste)
