Knowledge

It’s no surprise that caffeine is the worlds most consumed psychoactive drug! If you are reading this and are anything like myself it’s not rocket science to know that somehow i become a much better, more productive, and approachable human after a hot cuppa in the morning!

With the COVID19 pandemic still on the rise, health and wellness has become a hot topic as many look to various supplements, tools and lifestyle changes to improve their overall well-being. This is why our biohackers over at OPTMZ have decided to out together a short list of their top immune boosting supplements.

When was the last time you woke up feeling energized and ready to tackle the day? When was the last time you woke up before your alarm and did not feel the need for caffeine? Chances are it has been a while!

The majority of people leave the first 60 minutes of their morning to chance and miss out on starting the day the best way possible, not realizing that these 60 minutes should be considered the most important of the day! This is where you set the tone, pace, and mood for the day ahead!

Simply put, Nootropics are supplements, compounds, foods and nutrients with the main function and aim of improving brain health and cognition. Nootropics aim, in general, is to enhance an individual's attention, mental acuity, short and long term memory and even aspects of right and left brain thinking. 

Nutrigenomics and Nutrigenetics investigate the relationship and effects between our diet, environment and our genetic variability. This can reveal a number of health-related issues that present you with better insight into what fuels your body and what doesn’t.   OVERVIEW: The two terms, nutrigenomics and nutrigenetics are often used interchangeably in this field. However, the core differences are important to understand,  Nutrigenetics investigates the influence of our genetic variability on our ability to interact with bioactive molecules in the molecular environment. Our genetic variability affects the way in which we absorb, metabolize, transport and respond to various nutrients or bioactive molecules. Essentially, nutrigenetics investigates how we respond based on our genetic variability or “gene-environment interactions”  For example, genetic variations in the CYP1A2 gene affect the ability of an individual to metabolize caffeine, which accounts for why some experience “jitters” after a single cup of coffee and others don't.  Nutrigenomics on the other hand investigates the effects of bioactive molecules on our genes, particularly gene expression with the potential to either up-regulate/down-regulate or activate/silence certain genes. Otherwise referred to as “environment-gene interactions”. In a nutshell,  every individual has their own unique genetic code with their own unique genetic variability and by using this information you can identify the optimal diet and lifestyle adjustments for health, performance, weight management, recovery and more.  THE IMPORTANCE OF PERSONALIZED APPROACHES:  We might be aware that we should steer clear from sugar, eat plenty of healthy fats, moderate our carbohydrate intake, and get sufficient exercise. However, even with the abundance of information, diet plans and nutritional advice out there, most people still have questions surrounding which is the best approach for me? Should I cut carbs? Should I be putting butter in my coffee? Should i be doing endurance or strength training? Which supplements do I actually need? The answers are out there but a well-calibrated diet and performance plan stretches far beyond generalised recommendations.  Every individual possesses a unique “blueprint” and what works for person A might not work for person B! HOW CAN NUTRIGENOMICS & NUTRIGENETICS BENEFIT ME?  By understanding the unique needs of an individual, based on the analysis of their genetic variation, personalised approaches through diets, supplement suggestions, training programs and lifestyle adjustments can be developed.  Diet & Nutrition:  Identify your genetic variations which impact metabolism, absorption and storage of fats and carbohydrates, as well as eating behaviour to understand how your genetic profile will impact your response to our most effective healthy eating plans. Health & Vitality:  Identify potential lifestyle diseases and how to optimise your health by personalising your lifestyle and diet choices to manage inflammation, detoxification and cellar functioning.   Sports & Physical Performance:  The effectiveness of training and physical performance is affected by key biological areas, where personalised training strategies can optimise your genetic potential, and identify the right lifestyle, nutrition, training and environmental interactions.  Longevity & Anti-Aging:  Identify genetic variations and practices which affect antioxidant status and inflammation, UV sensitivity and damage, skin elasticity and repair.  Brain Health & Mental Performance:  Identify risks for neurological disorders, compulsive behaviour, neurotransmitter balance, mood regulation and which protocol or practises can assist in prevention or enhancement.  CLOSING THOUGHTS:  Personalised insights via DNA testing and analysis allows for data-driven and personalised nutritional and lifestyle recommendations for each individual.  Armed with information, you can be better-equipped to achieve your goals. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS?  Is It Safe?  Nutrigenomics services are totally safe and completely non-invasive, requiring only a cheek swab for the sample.  Is It Backed By Real Science?  Yes, nutrigenomics is not a new discovery and the results are structured off of thousands of published research papers.   Who Is This Suited For?  Anyone looking to take a personalised, effective and functional approach to their health, wellness and performance, based on YOUR specific DNA composition! Everyone is different, the approach should be too! Is It Worth The Cost?  Well, what price tag do you put on your health?  The saying, “Health is Wealth” says it all. You have one vehicle in this lifetime, surely you would want to make the best of it and get the most out of it?  The cost of a nutrigenomic test is once off, once it's done, it's done and you have the insights you need.  How Can I Get Started?  Simple, you can find more information on what we offer and how to get started, here. 

The COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing protocols set in place during this period has called for some major changes in our daily lives and may even call for some changes in how we think.

The healthiest beverage that a person can consume is, no doubt, ‘WATER’. It’s free of any harmful chemicals and salts. Now, how about altering the way we drink water? Well, welcome to hydrogen water- the latest trend in wellness. 

It is a modern-day epidemic. Whether the stress is a constant, nagging pain in the gut or a barely-there feeling, it wrecks your body. For some, it’s fistfuls of hair falling out; for others, it’s the entire immune system going haywire.

Simply put, Neurogenesis is the term used to refer to the creation of new neurons in the brain. Increased neurogenesis can help support memory, mental clarity, recall, reduce anxiety and even assist with depression. Let’s find out how to increase neurogenesis.

Caffeine and L-Theanine just happen to be one of those ‘perfect’ combinations in the chase of the perfect nootropic stack. Caffeine and L-Theanine is also a great choice for beginner nootropic user as it is very subtle yet a great way to drive focus and cognition during your busy day, either at work or while studying.

Molecular Hydrogen or H2 is the new buzz in the medical science world. It is the smallest and most prevalent molecule in existence and works miraculously as an antioxidant health supplement. This tasteless, odourless gas is in the news for it is able to tackle more than five dozen diseases. It is celebrated for its anti-aging, anti-allergenic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory effects.