The Benefits of a moderate-protein diet.

Recent research publish in the Journal of Nutrition found that over one year, a moderate-protein diet was better than a standard high-carbohydrate, low-fat diet at helping overweight adults shed body fat.

What's more, it had greater benefits when it came to boosting "good" HDL cholesterol and lowering triglycerides, a type of blood fat that contributes to clogged arteries.

For the study, 130 overweight adults were randomly assigned to one of two calorie-restricted diets: the commonly recommended higher-carbohydrate diet, with about 15 per cent of calories coming from protein, 55 per cent from carbohydrates and 30 per cent from fats; or a moderate-protein diet where 30 per cent of calories came from protein - including lean meat, low-fat dairy and nuts - while 40 per cent came from carbs, and 30 percent from fats.

After one year, the average weight loss was similar in the two groups -10.5 kilograms with the moderate-protein diet, versus roughly 8.5 kilograms with the high-carb diet. However, the moderate-protein former group lost more fat mass, and had greater improvements in both HDL and triglyceride levels.

The extra protein at each meal helps dieters preserve metabolically active lean muscle mass and at the same time lower levels of the blood- sugar-regulating hormone insulin, encouraging the body to shed more stored fat.

After a period of 6 months the protein modified dieters had managed to keep their weight off, probably due to the fact that they maintained their lean muscle mass during the diet.

Sensible Protein Modified-Diets such as the Ketoslim diet used at BWC are now becoming recognized as a better alternative to the standard calorie counting, carbohydrate diets and the good news is; its easy. For further information contact the clinic or check out www.ketoslim.com.au

Acupuncture beneficial during IVF

Source: Fertility and Sterility 2008; Advance online publication

A recent study investigating the effects of acupuncture in IVF patients treated with acupuncture before egg retrieval and pre- and post-embryo transfer found clinical pregnancy and birth per pregnancy rates were increased in the acupuncture group (51% versus 37% and 94% versus 64%).

The researchers concluded that patients receiving acupuncture 4 weeks before the stimulation medications and in the times before egg retrieval and embryo transfer may benefit more than those treated just pre- or post-embryo transfer. For further information talk to Leah Bonsall.

Are essential oils safe in pregnancy?

Aromatherapy may be helpful during pregnancy to relieve anxiety, pain, nausea, and/or vomiting or to strengthen contractions.

It may also reduce pain perceived by first-time mothers. Some essential oils can trigger menstruation and uterine contractions and therefore should not be used by pregnant women. If pregnant, women should always check with a professional Aromatherapist before using any essential oils.

Here are a few essential oils that are safe for use during pregnancy, childbirth and post-natal care.

• Lavender for stress relief, fatigue and insomnia.
• Ginger to relieve morning sickness.
• Sweet Orange and Grapefruit for fluid retention.
• Lemon and Cajeput for muscle aches and pains.

For further information speak to Massage Therapist and Aromatherapy expert: Cathy Morris.

Probiotics and pregnancy

Without normal gastrointestinal function and balanced gut flora, children may develop immune pathologies; either an over active immune system resulting in eczema or asthma or an underactive immune system resulting in recurrent infections, or both.

Immune-boosting probiotics are beneficial for decreasing children's susceptibility to both infections and allergies. Taking probiotics (lactobacillus acidophilus and bifido bacterium) during pregnancy and breastfeeding offers a safe and effective mode of promoting a healthy immune system and provides protection against atopic eczema during the first two years of life.

The mother greatly influences the development and maturation of her infant's gastrointestinal tract. The newborn's gastrointestinal tract is primarily inoculated by organisms originating from the and from the surrounding environment. Stress or infection during the pregnancy can lead to dysbiosis of the newborn, as can poor gut flora status or poor dietary habits of the mother.

Baby’s born by ceasarian-section have less bifido-bacterium than other babies. Breastfeeding sets up the immune defenses of the infant, prevents increased gut permeability, and provides nutrients for their beneficial bacteria to flourish. By ensuring mums probiotic status is optimal supports a healthy immune system for baby.

Coenzyme Q10 and pregnancy

Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant produced naturally by the body that declines with age. Taking Coenzyme Q10 during pregnancy reduces complications such as spontaneous abortion and fetal wasting in the first trimester.

The highest concentration of Coenzyme Q10 in maternal blood are found soon after delivery with a peak in the third trimester of pregnancy which may reflect a progressive increase in the baby’s needs Coenzyme Q10 for development, but also an increasing antioxidant protection mechanism for the mother during pregnancy and delivery.

Pregnant women with pre-eclampsia have been found to have reduced blood levels of CoenzymeQ10. We recommend taking 50 - 100mg of CoQ10 throughout pregnancy, especially if there are other risk factors or a history of pre-eclampsia.