One of the most feared consequences of advancing age is the gamut of possibilities we may face, from decline of cognitive ability and memory recall to brain fatigue and depleted mood. 

Many factors are involved in the susceptibility for neurological decline as we age.  This includes structural changes, such as shrinking of brain tissue and vulnerability to oxidative stress and inflammation.

In addition to adequate sleep, along with keeping the brain active, our cognitive function and the health of our billions of neurons is dependent upon the right fuel.   This means avoiding toxicity, which includes excess sugar and ensuring sufficient nutrients through a varied and balanced diet.

In addition to this there are specific nutrients which are critical for brain health, particularly as the brain ages.   This includes long chain omega 3 fats, such as DHA (docosahexanoic acid) and EPA (Eicosapentanoic acid) as well as phospholipids.  One such phospholipid, phosphatidylserine (PS) is a component of neuronal cell membranes and comprises up to 15% of the cerebral cortex.  According to an article published in the frontiers in Ageing Neuroscience, DHA is considered the most important omega 3 fatty acid in the brain.

Studies  have shown that PS taken as a supplement is well absorbed and crosses the blood brain barrier and may have the capacity to slow or even reverse deterioration of the brain, both structurally and biochemically, thus improving function.  This means improved memory, concentration and problem solving capacity.  Healthy nerve cell membranes mean healthy neurotransmission and signalling.  This relates not only to cognitive capacity but also to mood.

Another study, published in the Journal of Neuroscience concluded that DHA supplementation may enhance the benefits of exercise with regard to improved cognition and brain plasticity related to increased concentration of brain derived neurotropic factor (BDNF).  This important protein has been the subject of much research over recent years. 

One of my favourite botanical medicines, Gingko biloba, has also been used in traditional medicine disciplines for thousands of years.  More recent scientific research has identified the mechanisms of action for this traditional use, which include significant reduction is protection against oxidation, a major contributor to degenerative processes.   Gingko biloba is one of the most prescribed herbal medicines in Europe, particularly Germany.  

Another botanical which has long been appreciated for its potent antioxidant properties, is Camelia sinensis, better known as green tea.   A review of studies published in the Journal of Phytomedicine concluded that Green tea has a beneficial impact on brain function and memory.

Whilst maintaining optimal brain function is multifactorial, the opportunity to trial a supplement with all of the above mentioned brain elixirs, that is DHA (from algae oil), Phosphatidyl serine,  Gingko biloba and Camelia sinensis in an easy to take gel capsule, was too good to pass up.   The formulation of this product, called Rebrain, is based on years of extensive brain research by an impressive team at Visdon, a premium Australian health brand.  This product is made in Australia and TGA approved.   I take very few supplements, however I can certainly see Rebrain becoming one of my staples going forward.

You can find Visdon ReBrain online or at the following locations:

VICTORIA
Priceline Pharmacy Heathmont. 162 Canterbury Rd,Heathmont VIC 3135
O’Brien Pharmacy. 575 Springvale Rd, Springvale South, VIC 3172
Better Value Pharmacy Sprtngvale. 250 Springvale Road, Springvale, VIC 3171
Lee Pharmacy. Shop G13a/46-58 Buckingham Ave, Springvale, VIC 3171
Better Value Pharmacy Box hill. Shop MM1, Box Hill Central Sh叩ping Centre, 1 Main Street, Box Hill, VIC 3128
Priceline Pharmacy Box Hill. Shop G45 Centro 8ox Hill, 17 Market St, Box Hill, VIC 3128
Priceline Pharmacy QV. Shop 55 QV Retail Centre, Swanston St, Melbourne, VIC 3000
Victoria Market Pharmacy. 523 Elizabeth St, Melbourne, VIC 3000
Clayton Central Pharmasave Pharmacy. 373A Clayton Road, Clayton, VIC 3168
Gardenvale Pharmacy. 4/170 Martin St, Brighton, VIC 3186
St Kilda Priceline. 160 Acland St, St Kilda, VIC 3182
Priceline Studfield Pharmacy. 203 Stud Rd,Wantirna South VIC 3152

SYDNEY
Priceline Pharmacy. 413 George St,Sydney NSW 2000
Priceline Pharmacy. 26-60 Broadway,Chippendale NSW 2000

The post Brain Health: Keeping our brains healthy as we age appeared first on Healthy Luxe.

Drinking fruit and herbal infusions is a fantastic healthy habit to establish. Not only does it boost hydration but it can also satisfy your sweet tooth without the sugar hit. This also prevents overeating as thirst is often mistaken for hunger.

Like most products these days, there is an overwhelming amount of choice… herbal tea, green, black… the list goes on. Remember that most fruit and herbal ‘teas’ do not actually contain any tea, but rather, herbal or fruit extracts. Each type of tea/infusion has its own unique benefits but if you’re looking to boost hydration, herbal/fruit is the way to go. A specific range of fruit infusions we love is Red Seal. Red Seal have a selection of delicious, naturally sweet fruit brews including Lemon & Lime, Raspberry & Strawberry, Blood Orange & Superfruits and Peach & Pineapple. Amongst these is the classic Lemon & Ginger – our go to before bed cuppa. All Red Seal fruit brews can be enjoyed either as a refreshing iced drink (perfect for Summer) or as a warming and comforting hot brew in the cooler months. Red Seal are actually the only brew available that can be enjoyed hot or cold straight from the pack!

The hydration problem

Adequate hydration is essential to life and one of the most important pillars of optimum health. In parts of the world where we are fortunate enough to have sufficient drinking water, one of the most commonly cited reasons for not drinking enough water is the taste, and the fact that most people would rather satisfy their taste buds by reaching for a sugar laden soft drink or cordial. Many people also don’t realise that black tea and coffee actually contribute to dehydration, increasing our requirement for water.

The solution

A great solution to this deterrent is to make water more interesting, without the added sugar. Enter Red Seal fruit brews! The brews are bursting with flavour whilst being a hydrating, low sugar option. They are the perfect alternative to soft drinks or artificially sweetened fruit juice.

Ethos behind Red Seal Fruit Infusion

The ethos of Red Seal in their quest to create quality, natural products that help to make good health affordable, is very much aligned with our own values.

The fruit and botanical brew range contains no added sugar or artificial sweeteners, yields no calories and has no caffeine or gluten, nor GMO (genetically modified organisms). Each 250ml serving contains only natural ingredients and has less than 0.5g of natural sugar (from the fruit). When the flavour can be enhanced by a little additional sweetness, natural stevia is added.

I’m sure you all know how to make tea herbal infusion, but what is unique about Red Seal fruit brews is that there is no difference between making a hot or a cold brew…

To serve as a hot drink, simply pour boiling water over your tea bag and allow it to steep for 3 – 5 minutes for maximum flavour.

As a cold infusion, allow your Red Seal tea bag to infuse in room temperature water, preferably filtered, for 3 – 5 minutes. Then simply add ice cubes and desired garnish for an exotic flair. You can also infuse your Red Seal brew with sparkling water… tastes even better than sugary fizzy drink!

Red Seal teabags themselves are free of chemicals and bleach (unlike many). This is a key reason why it is important to know about the brand you are choosing before purchasing. There are no glues, staples or other chemicals used in their processing and are compostable, so better for us and better for the planet.

With great products available to us like Red Seal fruit brews we have no excuse not to stay properly hydrated!

There is no recipe required however if you’re feeling like getting creative with an exotic (cheat’s) mocktail, try this flavour packed berry no-jito.

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Ingredients

• 2 bags Red Seal Raspberry & Strawberry Infusion

• 2 cups sparkling water

• 1 handful ice cubes

• 1/2 punnet fresh raspberries

• 1/2 punnet fresh blackberries

• 2 sprigs fresh mint leaves

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Directions

• Place teabags in a medium sized jug and pour over room temperature sparkling water.
• Allow to infuse for 3-5 minutes.
• Add ice cubes, berries and mint leaves. Gently mix.
• Serve, sip and enjoy!

The post Red Seal Naturally Sweet Fruit Brews appeared first on Healthy Luxe.

Why we choose Egmont Waimete Manuka Honey

With increasingly widespread use of pesticides and herbicides, the nectar of the flowers from which bees forage can become contaminated. This is one of the contributing factors to the precipitous decline in the bee population. Apart from making honey, bees have a critical pollinating role, without which our future would be in jeopardy. Egmont Honey bees are never exposed to any pesticides or herbicides and the company contributes 10% of their revenue to hive regeneration projects supporting the increase of the global bee population.

As with all food produce, the quality will vary as a direct result of the environment in which it is produced, as well as the processing methods. It is hard to imagine more idyllic conditions than Manuka forests in New Zealand which are so remote that they are only accessible by helicopter. The bees forage naturally and produce honey of exceptional purity. The delicious raw honey produced remains unpasteurised and is available for sale in different strengths, ranging from MGO 30+ to UMF 10+. More on what this means below.

Another concern is that, since the popularity of Manuka has grown exponentially, particularly in light of the increased incidence of anti-biotic resistant bacterial infections, more of this product has flooded on to the market to meet the demand. This means the quality has become more questionable and it is even more important to know sources. There have even been reports that more Manuka honey is purchased than is actually produced. So, doing the sums, it seems not all Manuka Honey really is what it claims to be.

What does UMF and MGO mean?

UMFTM stands for Unique Manuka Factor and reflects key markers which ascertain the authentici- ty and strength of honey. The rating is assigned by the UMFHA (Unique Manuka Factor Honey Association), a NZ based independent regulatory body.

MGO (Methylglyoxal) reflects quantities of this particular marker only. This is a phytochemical recently identified as having antimicrobial activity.

More information on the criteria and grading system can be found here. are extremely strict and it is essential to check for the logo (below) to ensure you are buying genuine Manuka.

We are big advocates for manuka honey and use it in many ways.

Incorporating it into simple recipes and elixirs is a great (and delicious) way to support our immune systems and keep us healthy! Here are 3 of our favourite ways to incorporate this delicious ingredient.

Lemon & Honey Bliss Balls

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Ingredients (Makes 10)

• 1 1/4 cup almond meal

• 1 cup desiccated coconut (+ extra to roll)

• 1/4 cup Egmont Manuka Honey

• 1/4 cup hulled tahini

• 1/4 cup coconut oil

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1/2 tbsp lemon zest

• 1/4 tsp vanilla bean powder

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Directions

• Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl, mix until well combined.
• Arrange into small balls, rolling in desiccated coconut.
• Cover and store in the fridge. Serve and enjoy.

Turmeric Latte

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Ingredients (serves 1)

• 1 heaped tsp turmeric latté blend

• 1-2 tsp Egmont Manuka Honey

• Dash boiling water

• 250 ml oat milk

• Cinnamon, to dust on top

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Directions

• Combine turmeric latté blend and honey in a glass/mug.
• Add a dash of boiling water and mix until it forms a paste like consistency.
  
• Top up with heated oat milk.
  
• Dust with cinnamon (optional). Serve and enjoy.

Honey Macadamias

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Ingredients (serves 6)

• 1 cup macadamias

• 3 tbsp Egmont Manuka Honey

• Pinch of sea salt

• 1 tsp coconut oil (optional)

Print

Directions

• Preheat oven to 180 degrees C.
• Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl, mix until all macadamias are coated with honey.
• Arrange on a lined baking tray and bake for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.
• Allow to cool, serve and enjoy.
  *Store in an air tight container at room temperature.

Visit Egmont Honey to see the extensive range of honeys made by Egmont.

The post Ways with Manuka Honey appeared first on Healthy Luxe.

We are often asked about our experience of developing an app and can honestly say it has been a very steep learning curve. We would like to share some of the insights we have learned along the way and why, despite our challenges, we are very happy to have this technology as part of our Healthy Luxe brand.

Our first recipe app was called Health Synergy. In summary, it worked via a very simple formula, in that there was a one off cost of $5, of which iTunes took a 50% commission for the first year and 30% thereafter. There was a significant ongoing hosting fee, over and above our development costs, which we did not know about. Being very naive at the time, we also hadn’t factored in the need to upgrade the app to remain compatible with newer devices. Let’s just say we learnt a lot…

Upon changing our name to Healthy Luxe and expanding beyond food and recipes to a more encompassing range of health, lifestyle, travel and sustainability topics, we decided to also relaunch our app. We signed up with the ‘leading’ app development company in Australia, once tipped to be the next ‘Apple’. After months of delays and arguments about what features were ‘in scope’ or not, the company was spectacularly plunged into liquidation. We had no notice, other than a short message on our online communication platform. We could no longer contact any staff and the liquidators were very unhelpful. Newspaper articles which ensued revealed that staff, in Australia and overseas (our team was based in India) also had no knowledge of the impending collapse and were owed considerable sums in unpaid wages.

Luckily, one of the developers who had been working on our projected contacted us via LinkedIn to see if she could help us complete and launch our app. She introduced us to the very driven and talented developers, Parag Gupta & Vikash Soni, from DianApps, based in India. Parag helped us rescue our iOS app, fixed the bugs and ultimately helped us to launch Healthy Luxe app in January 2019. The difference in our experience was dramatic. We were so impressed that we engaged DianApps subsequently to build an Android version of our app. In fact we now see our app as a continual work in progress, with ongoing updates and improvements so that the app can increasingly become a destination of health education as well as healthy recipes. We consider Dian Apps to be our technology partners in this endeavour and very much value their input. We work closely with Parag and his colleague, Pancham Loyal. The DianApps team have a genuine interest in our business and have encouraged us to stop wondering whether something is possible but rather to know that everything is possible, it is just a question of how and how much effort/time is required to implement it. We love that they not only listen to our ideas, but also put forward ideas on how we can make our app the best it can be. The versatility and possibilities for apps are endless and are continually evolving, which is critical in this rapidly changing digital age.

According to Flurry Analytics, 86% of people spend time on apps when on their mobile phone, versus 14% on browser.

The most valuable advice we can give to anyone considering developing a mobile app is to find the right developer to discuss your needs with. We cannot recommend Dian Apps highly enough. This innovative and hard working team have also recently been recognised in the Top 50 Tech Companies at the Intercon Conference in Dubai 2019.

DianApps also offer digital marketing services including website development, Search Engine Optimisation and E-commerce solutions. They have helped us to optimise our website and shared our articles with a number of online publications.

For anyone interested in engaging DianApps for app development or digital marketing services, they are Kindly offering the following:

1. Complimentary 4-hour consultation in person / conference call [the team are travelling to Australia between 6th-16th November].
2. After the consultation you will be given your unique project plan and user stories
3. Complimentary 2-Weeks Digital Marketing and SEO services*

*Limited offer.

Find out more at Dian Apps or please contact us if you would like a personal introduction.

The post Why your business needs a mobile App appeared first on Healthy Luxe.

This message was succinctly conveyed in the thought provoking exhibition, ‘Bigger than the Plate’ at the Victoria & Albert museum in London, curated by May Rosenthal Sloan and Catherine Flood and sponsored by Baxter Storey.  This exhibition brought together an eclectic mix of farmers, chefs, scientists and inventors as well as artists and designers to help illustrate these ideas, all with a common goal of finding ways to reconnect with and transform the food cycle. 

The intention of the exhibition is eloquently announced upon entry as follows:

Food connects us – to each other, to our culture, and ultimately to nature, shaping the world we live in.  We depend on food to survive, but much more than that, it gives us pleasure, stirring memories and feeding emotions.  Yet some of the biggest issues we face globally – from climate change to workers’ rights and public health – stem from how and what we eat.  And as the distance between the field and fork widens, many of us feel detached from our food, often not knowing where it came from or how it was produced.

Today, desire is mounting for a food system that is more sustainable, fair and delicious.  As technology is reinvented and societies transform at an unimaginable pace, now is the moment to decide what kind of food future we want.  What could it look like? And taste like?

This philosophy and questioning has never been so urgent.  

Interestingly, at times of food shortages during the Second World War, the British Government led a “dig for victory” campaign using the slogan “Use spades, not ships” along with the image below.  The purpose was to encourage people to grow their own food, to which the population responded, transforming their gardens and parks into vegetable patches.

Unfortunately, after the war, there was a stark shift away from growing our own food, towards industrialising food production.  We have written on this issue previously, particularly with regard to herbicide use. Now, we have ships transporting food around the world, even for processing. Frozen berries are an example, whereby berries can be grown in one country, processed in another and sold in another.    Apart from being extraordinarily wasteful on an environmental level, this practice continues to result in hepatitis outbreaks around the world, most recently just this year (2019).  We even ship waste to other countries, who quite often send it back, therefore causing more waste and unnecessary emissions.   

The consumerism mindset, without regard for waste gradually became entrenched in our culture. The symbolism of this is boldly depicted in a graffiti stencil, known as “shop til you drop” by the world’s best known (yet anonymous) graffiti artist, Banksy (whose works invariably carry a political message) in the heart of London’s exclusive Mayfair district.

The ‘Bigger than a Plate’ exhibition was another way in which art gives expression to a global crisis.   However, whilst it provided education on some of the consequences of industrialised food production, and the ways in which we have exploited animals and humans, there was also a focus on solutions, combining wisdom of past practices and respect for nature, as well as debating innovative ideas on food production of the future.   For example there were novel alternatives to plastic production, such as seaweed derived ‘plastic’ bottles that are actually edible .  Mushrooms could also be seen growing inside the exhibition, using coffee grounds from the V&A café as a medium.  Another fascinating installation, although disappointingly not working the day I was there, explored ways in which technology could help us communicate with plants.  More on this on Project Florence.

There was also a tasting opportunity  (which was a sensory rather than satiating experience) of a canapé designed according to preferences in their interactive ‘LOCI Food Lab’ described as “a travelling food cart for prototyping, serving and debating a range of bioregional food futures at different sites around the world.  A bioregion (aka ecoregion) is an area defined by its environmental features like flora, fauna, watersheds, soil and terrain rather than political boundaries”. We were tasting from the bioregion of “English Lowlands Beech Forests”. My tasty morsel, designed on the chosen criteria of nutritious, delicious and vegan (the latter chosen largely due to not being adventurous enough to find out what a non vegan option may be) consisted of:

Acclimatized Crackers (Essex chia seeds, British yellow pean and quinoa from Home Farm, Nacton)

Wild Spread (foraged English mushrooms and wild herbs)

Revitalised Relish (tomatoes too ugly for local restaurants and supermarkets)

Fried PTA-2684 (Vat-grown mycoprotein derived from a mould discovered in the soil of Marlow

Pop Heritage (crisped Essex barley and Somerset spelt)

No soil, No sun micro greens (Indian Salad Mix, hydroponically grown underground in Clapham, London)

This exhibition made me think of one of our favourite places to visit in London, the vibrant and bustling Borough Markets near London Bridge.   Thought to have been in existence for over 1000 years, these are London’s oldest food markets and have not only tremendous historical significance, but represent a microcosm on how our future could be. 

Borough Markets in London exemplifies reconnection to where our food comes from, a gathering of food growers, artisan producers, reminiscent of times gone by, when a trip to the market was an occasion for social interaction as well as a sensory experience, followed by opportunity for creativity in the kitchen, connecting with others in both the cooking and sharing of food.

Throughout the extensive Borough Markets there is a focus on ‘slow food’, honouring tradition, low impact farming, sustainability, with a minimising waste philosophy.  Surplus food is never wasted, being either distributed to charities, or, unusable food is sent to a plant whereby microorganisms break down the waste, transforming it into fertiliser, power, even water.  The latter is an example of ways in which Borough Markets not only honours the wisdom of the past, but is also progressive and innovative.   Crowds of people are drawn to these iconic markets every day, particularly full market days from Wednesday to Saturday.

Any plastic used is biodegrade or compostable and all traders must demonstrate their commitment to sustainability.  In addition, Borough Markets also host regular ‘Food Futures Markets’ for innovators to showcase their ideas and gain valuable feedback from other traders and shoppers.

All of this provides hope for the future, as well as ways in which we, as individuals, can make a difference by making more conscious choices with regard to our consumption and disposal of food.  It comes back to the many levels of being more connected.

The post The Food Cycle: Hope for the future appeared first on Healthy Luxe.

Wind exacerbates this even further, and of course sunburn will also damage the delicate lip tissue, amplified if reflected from water or snow.

Lips are particularly vulnerable to dryness as they do not contain oil glands that are present in the skin that help to retain moisture.  Sometimes even chapping of the lips occurs if we do not prepare or attend to the early dryness signs.  In some cases, lips can become cracked, and even bleed.  We also tend to drink less water in the winter which contributes to dryness. Read this article

A particularly cold snap in Sydney created perfect conditions for us to trial the range of Clean & Pure Lip Balm.  This range uses a maximum of 6 naturally derived and locally sourced (within Australia) ingredients. 

Importantly, they do not include chemicals such as petroleum derived products and parabens.  Petroleum jelly based lip balms act as a water repellent, however also prevent absorption of moisture and have been implicated in a number of potential adverse health concerns.   The primary ingredients in Clean & Pure include extra virgin olive oil and ethically sourced Manuka beeswax (we are big fans of Manuka), infused with steam distilled essential oils.  Varieties include Cocoa butter, coconut, vanilla, peppermint, and tinted rose.

A good lip balm not only restores and nourishes, but provides protection against elements such as sun and wind.  We can certainly say that regular application of Clean & Pure lip balm, along with ensuring sufficient hydration has helped us through this cold patch and have totally prevented chapped lips. Win!

The post Clean and Pure Lip Balm appeared first on Healthy Luxe.

Why is petroleum harmful?

Petroleum jelly is a bi-product derived from oil, first commercially patented (as vasoline) in 1872 under the classification of ‘insulating materials’.  These insulating properties inhibit the natural ability of the skin to breathe. 

In recent times, there have been concerns over the dermal absorption of a number of petrochemical substances with one study suggesting that there is strong evidence that mineral oil hydrocarbons are a major source of contamination in the body.  This study also concluded that cosmetic product application is the most likely source of this bio-accumulation.   

Whilst there have been other studies that have suggested refined topical petroleum jelly is not absorbed by the skin and is safe, the hydrocarbons within it may be absorbed and accumulate in fat tissue. When applied to the lips, as lip balm, yet another direct pathway into the body is introduced and we may be surprised to learn how much lip balm / lipstick is actually eaten over time!   This is why lip balm ingredients should only contain substances which are safe to eat. 

It is a very complex topic and, as always, we recommend people do their own research in order to make informed choices, however, we certainly avoid petrochemical products as much as possible and recommend the same to others.   

P’URE Papaya Care

As we have spoken about before, the toxic load our bodies have to contend with in our modern world is ever increasing. A fundamental aspect of naturopathic philosophy is choosing products as close to their natural source as possible, both to consume and to apply topically to our skin. In contrast, the combination and accumulation of chemicals we apply to our skin on a daily basis has been shown to have numerous potential adverse health impacts, including endocrine disruptive factors.

P’ure Papaya Care was developed by naturopaths as an alternative to the petroleum based products. By choosing P’ure Papaya Care, we are not only lessening the toxic load, but also ensuring maximum delivery of active ingredients contained in the organic, fermented papaya fruit (flesh, skin and seeds). The treatment is enhanced by the addition of nourishing shea butter, jojoba and macadamia oils, along with the soothing and anti-inflammatory qualities of calendula flowers.   

More intensive treatment products within the range include ‘Papaya Renew’, also including the herb Gotu kola, which has demonstrated in some studies the ability to improve collagen production and reduce scar tissue formation.

Every product in the Pure Papaya Care range is carefully formulated and we are excited to try the latest addition, being ‘Papaya Glow’ a luxurious overnight skin renewal oil, containing only papaya seed oil, jojoba seed oil and Vitamin E. 

Find out more about their fantastic product range here.

The post Why we love P’URE Papaya Care appeared first on Healthy Luxe.

While there are still so many cafes that I’m yet to visit, I’ve compiled a list of some gems I’ve discovered over the past few months. 

Cafes

Cooh

Cooh is a cafe/restaurant that I visited long before I moved to the area so was excited to discover that it is now only a short stroll away. Cooh has an extensive menu with a focus on wholesome, healthy and locally sourced food. If you’re going for breakfast their signature peanut butter latte is a must-try. The dinner menu has quite a strong Greek influence featuring a few of my all time favourite dishes… saganaki cheese with honey, smokey eggplant, spiced cauliflower and whipped feta dip. 

Mecca Coffee

Mecca coffee has an industrial layout with friendly staff and quality coffee. They roast their own coffee beans (that’s when you know it’s a winner) and even make their almond milk in house. They also have a great selection of breakfast and lunch dishes which are high on my to-try list.

Grumpy Barista 

Grumpy Barista is my go-to for my morning piccolo. Their coffee is consistently good and they have a range of dairy-free milk alternatives including my #1 Milk Lab almond milk and Macamilk macadamia milk. If you’re after a bite to eat they also do a mean smashed avo.

Gypsy Espresso

Gypsy is another cafe that roast their own coffee beans (you may have seen them around as they supply to a number of cafes). Their team are so passionate about what they do – this is evident just from watching them make my morning cup of coffee. They have recently relocated into a bigger space so you can now dine in and enjoy you specialty Gypsy coffee alongside one of their simple yet delicious meals. 

The Copper Mill

The Copper Mill kitchen & coffee house has something for everyone. Finding a cafe that caters to a large group can be a bit of a challenge with so many individual dietary requirements… Here you can find everything from a vegan brekky roll and an exceptionally tasty avo toast to a Peruvian pork belly roll and a good’ old fashion ham & cheese toastie. They also specify in the menu ‘MilkLab’ almond milk…which for my fellow almond milk drinkers you’ll know that’s a clear win. 

Bread and Circus Wholefoods Canteen

Bread & circus is a bustling cafe located in the heart of Alexandria. It has a fun and fresh feel to it with its pink furnishings and abundance of greenery. This is another cafe I visited many years before moving to the area and one I’m thrilled to live close to. Their famous parmesan-not-so-scambled-eggs with truffle oil is next level good, as is their caramelised lemony banana pancakes if you feel like something a little indulgent. 

Restaurants

RaRa Redfern

If you like ramen, then RaRa’s is a non-negotiable. If you’re vegetarian/vegan then there aren’t too many options but if you’re anything like me, you’ll just be grateful that they helped narrow it down. I tried the miso ramen noodles which let’s just say explained why their is always a queue to get in.

Pinos Vino e Cucina 

Looking for a special occasion restaurant? Pinos provides the perfect place with its charming, old world European interiors, friendly and knowledgable staff, traditional Italian cuisine and an extensive selection of premium (and mostly organic) wine. You can sit at the bar, at a table or you can book their private dining area.

Potting Shed

Known as the Grounds of Alexandria by day and the Potting Shed by night, this renowned space in Alexandria is a local gem. The Potting Shed is known for its speciality cocktails, craft beer and delicious share plates which are enjoyed in a green, garden oasis. It is decked out with fairy lights which really adds to the atmosphere.

Kepos St Kitchen

Kepos St Kitchen is a Middle Eastern cafe/restaurant that has made quite an impression on the locals. It is known as one of the best places to eat in the neighbourhood. By day it is a buzzy cafe serving Mediterranean favourites such as pea and halloumi fritters, shakshuka and falafel and by night it is a sophisticated restaurant with a range of delicious share plates. They also have a great selection of cocktails if you’re in the mood to treat yourself. 

Looking for more recommendations?

Check out our favourite restaurants in Sydney blog post!

The post Alexandria and Redfern Area Guide appeared first on Healthy Luxe.

Last week we were fortunate enough to attend the official launch of the 2019 apple season, over a delicious lunch prepared by Peter Gilmore, at the Quay Restaurant. This renowned harbour side restaurant looks out over Sydney’s most iconic landmarks. At this event we had the opportunity to taste a new apple variety, the ‘Envy’, which is only in its second season harvest. This crisp, sweet apple is the latest addition to the Montague range.

Montague is a family owned business spanning three generations, dedicated to providing consistently high quality produce since 1948.   The ‘Envy’ variety is grown primarily in the rich soils of Batlow, NSW, Stanthorpe, Queensland and Tasmania.

We also learned about the artistry involved in cross pollinating apples to create particular qualities and characteristics in new apple varieties.  The envy variety is the result of crossing the Braeburn and Royal Gala apples, the same combination as the well known sister variety, the JAZZ.   The characteristics successfully achieved in the envy are sweetness, density, low acidity and high juice ratio. All this whilst maintaining a white flesh long after being sliced, making it an ideal choice for salads, snacks and cheese platters.

After the first harvest, the envy apple has already gained popularity in Asia and is in high demand globally. Great news for Australian growers and the Montague family.

Envy apples are now available exclusively at Woolworths throughout Australia and we highly recommend you try them!

The post Envy Apple Season appeared first on Healthy Luxe.

However, most commercial anti-perspirants work by blocking sweat glands, using combinations of a number of chemicals, particularly aluminium, as well as parabens, phthalates, triclosan and synthetic fragrances.  Some of these potentially harmful substances have been shown to make their way to the bloodstream. In an age where we are bombarded with synthetic chemicals, adding to our toxic load in order to prevent the removal of toxins does not seem like the best idea. 

Whilst some natural deodorants are available, often people quickly dismiss them as “not working”.  It is important initially to understand that the purpose of deodorants is to kill the bacteria which causes the odour, rather than block the glands and stop perspiration.   A possible cause for this perceived lack of efficacy may be explained by a small study which has demonstrated that the use of anti-perspirants over time can alter the microbiome under the arms and actually contribute to worsening odour.  This altered axillary ecosystem and smelly consequences mean there can be a tendency not to persevere with the natural version of deodorant.  

This is where the ‘Kind-ly‘ innovative “detox mask’ comes in.  Prior to transitioning to a natural deodorant, Kind-ly recommend preparing the axillary region (armpits), by using a mask containing activated charcoal, Australian bentonite clay, colloidal silver and aloe vera, with a gentle fragrance of natural essential oils of lemongrass and ginger.   The mask is easy to apply and requires only 15 minutes prior to showering.  Following this regime for 7 to 14 days will help draw out impurities, balance pH and restore correct bacterial imbalances, with the ultimate affect of reducing the dreaded BO.  Thereafter a maintenance weekly mask is recommended.  Kind-ly also have a range of organic, probiotic and magnesium fortified deodorants.

Other factors which impact underarm perspiration and odour include stress and anxiety, certain medical conditions and medications, and certain foods.

Read more about the arm pit detox and see the complete range of organic deodorants here.

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