Seriously, no animals are harmed in the harvesting of deer velvet, much like dairy farmers, deer farmers have a vested interest in keeping their stock alive and healthy.

The removal of the antlers (velvet) is done by trained specialists who are conscious of the animal’s welfare and are careful to ensure maximum antler re-growth in the following season.

Deer Velvet is unique – it is the only organised mammalian tissue that completely re-grows, every year! Starting in late spring, the antler is fully mature after 120 days but it is usually removed mid-way through, before it has completely calcified and become a weapon used for ‘rutting’. Autumn is the season when the stags become aggressive and compete with each other for hinds. At around 60 days the rate of growth is extraordinarily rapid (up to 2cm per day) and requires specialised and potent biochemicals (which the deer produce naturally) to allow such growth. Deer Velvet is a completely renewable resource.

Free to range in the natural pastures of Southland, New Zealand, Red deer and Wapiti (or elk) thrive on the unpolluted grasses in this pristine environment. New Zealand’s positively regulated deer industry is trusted for its commitment to farming excellence. The emphasis on animal welfare and management, ensures traceability and sustainability. In addition, the deer products are harvested under strict conditions to protect and promote animal well-being. The fresh deer velvet is processed using sophisticated freeze-drying techniques to capture this health-promoting remedy in its premium state. The quality and potency of this high grade deer antler powder is assured because no heat treatment is used at any stage. This is how we can offer the best that Nature can provide; pure, natural ingredients.

Used for over 2000 years by Eastern cultures, deer velvet is an effective treatment for a wide range of conditions, which is why it is most commonly referred to as a general health tonic. Improved sexual function is one of the many purported benefits and only serves to add to the rich history of this remedy. More importantly, perhaps, recent scientific research lends validity to the traditional wisdom. Numerous studies have demonstrated that deer velvet has anti-inflammatory properties and may benefit immune function, joint mobility, wound healing and nerve function. Such properties make it a powerful source of nutrients which are useful in the treatment of osteoporosis and other age-related diseases. Elderly, mature, young and active people will all equally benefit from the increase in energy and athletic performance this natural substance can offer.

Deer Velvet contains proteins, vitamins and minerals, and substances like chondroitin sulphate and anti-inflammatory fatty acids which can improve joint mobility, muscle strength, endurance and recovery.

Remember; no animals were harmed in the making of this product!

Click here to view our Deer Products.

How to prevent having to ask yourself this question this winter!

Whether you have had your flu jab or not, it pays to keep your immune system working and in top shape, for many reasons;

• The flu jab will not cover you for all of the seasonal viruses and diseases you could be exposed to
• There are no vaccinations for upper respiratory infections or complications from colds
• Fungi and parasites are always present in our environment

Signs of a weak Immune System

• Rapid fatigue and lack of zest, headaches
• Susceptibility to infections
• Frequent suffering from cold or flu, a sore throat
• Prolonged duration of illness
• Poor healing of wounds.
• Loss of appetite
• Aching muscles and joints.

Exposure to viruses and infectious bugs is a daily occurrence, but paranoia and excessive use of anti-bacterial products is not the answer and nor is relying on medicines to treat secondary infections from flus and colds. The fact is, these days antibiotics have become less effective because many bugs are now resistant to even the newest antibiotics and modern drugs. This is not likely to change in a hurry!

A better plan is to strengthen your resistance to diseases naturally, through changes to your lifestyle, diet and with premium health supplements. Hygiene, regular exercise and food choices play an important role in fortifying our defences. Chicken soup, hot lemon-and-honey drinks and plenty of rest can help recovery from the average cold. But natural health supplements can strengthen the immune system and help our bodies to deal with flu symptoms, colds and bacterial infections quickly.

Olive Leaf extract has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes in many cultures. You have probably heard about the Mediterranean paradox; these cultures eat a diet seemingly high in fat but have a low incidence of chronic disease.  This “phtyomedicinal” product is emerging as a powerful weapon in the fight against microscopic pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites.

Phenolic compounds have been identified as the active substance in Olive Leaf, the most potent of these is Oleuropein, also called elenolic acid. Interestingly, in spite of the well-known beneficial effects of olive oil, less than one percent of the phenolic compounds in the olive end up in the finished product. Fortunately, studies have shown that Oleuropein is present in high concentrations in the fruit, bark and leaves. Research has shown that Olive Leaf extract is particularly effective against viruses and other infectious bugs when taken as a daily tonic.

Used by the ancient Egyptians as part of the mummification rituals to preserve the bodies of kings and nobility for the afterlife, Olive Leaf has a proven track record.

Whether you see yourself as an Egyptian Pharaoh or a Greek Deity, olive leaf could keep you looking and feeling great this winter. 

Click here to view our immune products.

CoQ10  – sounds more like a Star Wars android than a natural supplement! C3PO and R2D2 are both well-known characters in the Star Wars series, but they have nothing to do with heart function, cholesterol, periodontal disease or health supplements. So…….What is Coenzyme Q10?

Coenzyme Q10 is a substance that is normally made by your body. It’s used in every cell of your body to produce energy and to help keep you in good health. The problem is that as we age, we produce less of it and there are many conditions and activities that deplete Coenzyme Q10 in the cells and muscle tissue. Given that the heart is one big muscle, it is no wonder that this supplement can have a significant impact on cardiovascular health.

It is true that in a perfect world you can get all the nutrients you need to stay healthy, from food. But, unless you are an android or an incredibly healthy twenty-year-old who only ever eats fresh, raw food and is never exposed to environmental toxins or even stress, you might benefit from dietary supplements. In fact if you are: over the age of 40; have experienced a high degree of stress over a long period of time; or suffer from any form of post-traumatic stress its likely your nutrient reserves have been seriously depleted, including CoQ10.

In addition, there are many conditions that most people just shrug off as a normal part of aging; these include physical exhaustion, mental fatigue, poor concentration, memory lapses, mood changes, migraines and chronic pain. Chronic gum infections, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and heart disease could also indicate a need for supplementation with CoQ10. If you regularly suffer from any of these you should probably get some good medical advice.

CoQ10, also known as ubiquinone and ubidecarenone, is an energy coenzyme that is fat soluble.  That just means that it is more easily absorbed in a mixture of oils such as Omega oils or vitamin E (which is a fat soluble vitamin). That is why you should take it with a main meal that contains good fats.

The main food sources of CoQ10, in descending order of concentration, are: fresh oily cold water fish such as sardines, tuna, salmon and mackerel; animal organ meats such as heart, liver and muscle; eggs; spinach, broccoli, parsley, peanuts, wheat-germ, rice-bran, and wholegrains; unrefined vegetable oils such as soybean, olive and grapeseed oils.

Most importantly, any food source of CoQ10 must be eaten raw, fresh and unprocessed. Processing methods such as milling, canning, preserving or freezing, especially heating, change the structure and function of CoQ10 and minimise its viability. Cooking methods may also reduce the amount of CoQ10 in foods.  For example, as much as one third of the CoQ10 may be lost when frying eggs and vegetables, while boiling does not appear to alter CoQ10 levels.

Again it is produced naturally in the body, but may also be consumed through diet or taken as a supplement.  CoQ10 has two main roles; it is necessary for the production of energy, and also acts as an antioxidant. Taking an oral CoQ10 supplement has been shown to increase CoQ10 levels in blood and blood vessels, and support antioxidant function, energy production and a healthy cardiovascular system. In combination Coenzyme Q10 and Omega oils can improve heart muscle function and have an anti-inflammatory effect, lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol (trglycerides) in the blood.

And let’s face it, even androids need a good oil occasionally!

To view our CoQ10 products

To many of us in the west, Traditional Chinese Medicine is an unknown and mysterious practice. Despite this people who benefit from it are heard to say ‘I don’t understand how it works but it does!’

From 2,000 year old silk scrolls recovered from a tomb in the Hunan Province in China, to the well-respected Grand Materia Medica written in 1596 by Li Shi-Zhen, and the modern Chinese Pharmacopeia, deer velvet is credited with considerable health-giving properties.

Essentially, the goal of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is to promote balance and ‘wellness’. Yinyang is all about balance, in Chinese culture Yin and yang are opposite in nature, but they co-exist in everything, they rely on each other. By definition, a tonic is a medicinal substance taken to give a feeling of vigour and well-being. These are concepts that are relatively new to many western cultures. Deer velvet is considered a potent tonic and its traditional uses are many and varied.

Deer velvet is one of the most potent medicinals in the Chinese pharmacopeia to strengthen yang and tonify the kidneys. Yang energy is very important in health, as it warms and protects the body and provides the basis for metabolic functions. Yang energy also carries our essential energy whose source is the kidneys (a concept different from the western anatomical kidney which includes adrenals and reproductive organs) If yang energy is weak, there is a tendency to feel cold and lethargic, the pores of the skin remain open, the tendons are stiff and the back becomes hunched. Often fertility is reduced. The properties of deer velvet are sweet, salty and warm which means it 'enters' the kidneys and this makes it ideal to use for strengthening yang and kidneys.

Deer Antler Velvet has been consumed for at least 2,000 years. The first documented use of Deer Velvet has been traced back to the Han tomb in the Hunan Province in China where a silk scroll was discovered listing over 50 conditions for which Deer Velvet is given. Consistent with the holistic approach of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Deer Velvet is taken as a general tonic to restore balance, strengthen the body and promote overall wellness. One of the few "pure" tonics among the thousands of natural remedies in the Chinese pharmacopoeia, Deer Velvet is in the same highly regarded category as ginseng.

Generally, conventional western medicine does not recognise herbal remedies or health tonics and is not concerned with the promotion of wellness, mainly because the biological mechanisms of these substances are poorly understood. However, research into these and other alternative therapies tends to support at least some of the claims that have been made for centuries.

Increasingly, people in the west are turning to so-called alternative therapies to avoid long term dependency on prescription drugs. Traditional Chinese Medicine, which encompasses many different practices, is rooted in the ancient philosophy of Taoism and dates back more than 5,000 years. Today, TCM is practiced side by side with Western medicine in many of China’s hospitals and clinics and conversely many of its concepts are being adopted by conventional western medicine.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common forms of arthritis. It is associated with increasing age, diet, trauma or overuse of joints and other inherited factors. The grading system for osteoarthritis starts at zero and goes to grade 4 which is considered severe. So, clearly grade 3 is not comfortable. Osteoarthritis of the knee is a chronic condition that typically develops slowly and gradually worsens over time. In its most extreme form it is debilitating and very painful.

Native to New Zealand, Green Lipped Mussel (GLM) supplements have been marketed for the treatment of arthritic symptoms since the early 1970’s. Praised for its anti-inflammatory effect, studies have shown that GLM extract varies in potency depending on the stability of the preparation. Also known as Perna canaliculus, this shellfish provides an excellent source of protein, vitamins, minerals and extremely valuable Omega-3 fatty acids. Green Lipped Mussels contain high levels of glucosamine sulphate and chondroitin sulphate and a profile of Omega-3 essential fatty acids which are unique to the species. Glucosamine is a glycoprotein that is believed to play a role in cartilage formation and repair. While chondroitin sulphate is part of a large protein molecule (proteoglycan) that gives cartilage its elasticity. Omega-3 fatty acids are well known as anti-inflammatory oils that literally grease joints from the inside.

Deep Blue Health GlycOmega™-Plus is the next generation marine product. It is a high quality supplement formulated using selected cold-opened, fresh Green Lipped Mussels (GLM), combined with Rosemary oil, a botanical antioxidant, which together provide significant levels of anti-inflammatory activity. Finally, converted to a powder using a low temperature freeze-drying process that ensures all the bio-activity of the mussel meat is optimised, giving maximum anti-inflammatory properties.

But the most exciting part is that it works for Osteoarthritis of the knee: A clinical trial undertaken by the Medical School at the University of Queensland to establish the therapeutic benefits of GlycOmega™-Plus, concluded that this product is effective in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee in almost two thirds (59%) of the patients who participated in the trial.

And, in feedback from our customers:

“I have had grade 3 osteoarthritis in my right knee for many years which has led to continuous chronic pain.  I was using glucosamine, fish oil, and krill oil supplements for many years and although it helped it did not reduce the pain beyond detection.  I heard about the University of Queensland study and found out about the GlycOmega trial and decided to try this myself.  I have been using the recommended dose (3 tablets daily) since April 2013 and after about one month of treatment I noticed a substantial reduction in pain to the point where I no longer notice it and I am sleeping much better.  Since taking the GlycOmega supplement I no longer take any of the other joint pain related supplements and I could not recommend GlycOmega more highly – Thank you Deep Blue Health for bringing such an effective product to market”.

Peter J Wilson PhD, MBA

Executive Officer

Queensland Centre for Medical Genomics

Institute for Molecular Bioscience

The University of Queensland

Deep Blue Health GlycOmega™-Plus is the outcome of a new generation extraction process which preserves the rich source of essential fatty acids in GLM’s, providing a potent soothing action making GlycOmega™-Plus, a truly functional anti-arthritic product.

We are often asked if our Sheep Placenta extract has Halal Status, the short answer is yes, it does!

This is a world first! Not only is New Zealand one of the few places in the world that is TSE free; our sheep are pasture raised and extremely healthy, but we can now offer Halal Certified Sheep Placenta products. In fact, both the soft gelatin capsule and the ingredients have Halal status.

We live in a global village. Our products are used throughout the world by a wide variety of people from many races and cultures. As such we are aware of the need to cater to all our customers. Providing Halal Certified products is one way that we can provide peace of mind to our Islamic customers wherever they may be.

Deep Blue Health Natural Sheep Placenta is truly one of Nature’s unique gifts: for centuries Sheep Placenta has been revered as a potent source of beauty and anti-aging nutrients. Used to restore general health and vitality, this rich supplement can nourish cells and reduce the signs of aging.

Strictly speaking our sheep placenta extract does not need Halal certification because it is a product of live births and no animal is slaughtered when the placenta is harvested. In this case it is the processing plant itself and the processes used that have to meet the high standards required by the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ). Halal certification means that every precaution has been taken to prevent contamination with non-halal foods.

New Zealand’s lush, open pastures produce some of the world’s healthiest livestock. The placentas are harvested and immediately processed to preserve the nutritional content. Our processing plant is continually developing the extraction process and refining its methods. Now, the extraction method has now been refined to the point where the process meets the strict criteria required for Halal Accreditation. The tissue is treated in a manner permitted by FIANZ and no contamination is possible because all non-halal products are kept physically apart at all times. Separate processing rooms, equipment and storage areas are used.

At all times during handling, processing and storage the fresh tissue and the extract are treated according to Islamic law and are therefore suitable for consumption by Muslims in any part of the world.

Respect for our customers is an unwritten rule at Deep Blue Health; we strive to make goods that are free from pollutants and contamination of any type.

Now we have the best of both worlds; New Zealand origin and Halal Certification!

Beautiful skin is the basis of a flawless complexion. Skin must be strong and resilient to withstand the daily wear-and-tear it endures but it is also soft and delicate. It can be both, given the correct nutrition and care. Collagen is an important protein that provides structure for every cell and organ in our body. Cartilage and tendons in the joints depend on collagen to be strong and flexible and even bones contain collagen. Natural collagen supplements are a good source of nutrition for radiant skin, in fact collagen makes-up the basic building blocks of our skin, hair and nails.

Collagen is necessary for the: appearance and integrity of smooth skin, heart health and cardiovascular function, the maintenance of tendons and cartilage in joints, physical performance, vitality and well-being. Essentially, everything you do depends on the connective properties of collagen to literally hold your body together.

Skin of all ages needs to be cleansed and nurtured to look its best, but once we get over the age of 25, our collagen production slows and the regeneration of our skin cells diminishes. From this age the main concerns are the stimulation of new collagen production and inhibition of the breakdown of existing collagen fibres. Research has shown that the presence of extra collagen peptides in the skin can reduce the rate at which the collagen fibres are broken down by the activity of an enzyme called collagenase. This enzyme is a normal component of skin and helps to stop the epidermis (the outer-most layer) from becoming too thick and tough. DBH Marine Collagen can nourish skin and improve its complexion by controlling the rate of skin renewal.

DBH Marine Collagen contains high quality collagen protein with added Vitamin C to assist with the production of collagen within the body. When collagen fibres are laid down in the skin the process requires vitamins and minerals to ensure that it is smooth and consistent. When these nutrients are not present the type of collagen produced is inconsistent and weak, and so more prone to tearing and scarring. In addition to being an antioxidant, Vitamin C is required to produce consistently strong and smooth collagen fibres.

Sourced from the pristine waters off the coast of New Zealand, Deep Blue Health Marine Collagen is an excellent way to get your daily dose. Collagen can come from many sources, but Marine Collagen is a vegetarian option and is free from heavy metal contamination. It is a natural bi-product of the New Zealand fishing industry and is a renewable resource which is sustainably harvested.

Deep Blue Health Marine collagen is more than just a beauty product. When you take marine collagen you are also protecting your heart and cardiovascular function, nourishing your joints and feeding your bones. Health and beauty are intrinsically linked, when you feel healthy your energy levels and vitality increase. This is the basis of beautiful radiant skin.

To view products in our beauty range click here.

WHAT IS A SEA CUCUMBER?

Its name would suggest it is a plant and it certainly is packed with lots of minerals, but like most animals this invertebrate creature has a high protein content making a valuable food source. In addition to this, Sea Cucumbers have a number of unusual characteristics not the least of which is their unique self-defence technique.

Sea Cucumbers are innocuous creatures that inhabit the seas worldwide. They live on the sandy seafloor and around coral reefs. There are more than one thousand species of sea cucumbers, ranging in size from a few centimetres (one inch) to two metres (several feet). As their name would suggest they have a soft body the shape and texture of a cucumber. Sea Cucumbers have no brain, but have developed a surprising defense mechanism called evisceration: they can expel most of their internal organs (which regrow) to ward off and confuse predators!

In Asian cultures Sea Cucumber extract has been used as a traditional health remedy. It contains Chondroitin Sulphate which is an important building block for cartilage and tendons. More recently, studies have found that it has an anti-inflammatory, but the most exciting discovery is that Sea Cucumber is a major and abundant source of Triterpenoids. These naturally occurring organic compounds are most often found in plants such as pine trees, and are known to have anti-tumour properties. In fact, Triterpenoids are the subject of many studies investigating their potential in treatment of chronic diseases including some cancers.

Marine sources of Triterpenoids include marine sponges, marine algae and Sea cucumbers. In a journal article published in Molecules (July 2013), entitled ‘Triterpenoids of Marine Origin as Anti-Cancer Agents’ the authors state that: “…triterpenoids are known to exhibit cytotoxicity against a variety of tumor cells…” Sea Cucumber in particular contains at least four different Triterpenoids which exhibit properties against breast cancer, pancreatic cancer and leukaemia.

Being an invertebrate marine animal it is largely composed of protein, it is low in fat and contains many vitamins and minerals. Clearly, this Asian delicacy has more to offer than just a good meal.

This remarkable marine organism has elements of all three – animal, mineral and vegetable.

If you are interested in purchasing Deep Blue Health Sea Cucumber capsules click here.

Honey has rightly been called nature's sweet nectar. Not only is it one of the most versatile ingredients to cook with, but is also known to be rich in minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium. It works wonders for dull hair and skin.

Here's everything you need to know about honey and why you should include it in your daily beauty regimen.

There's no need to splash out on expensive spa facials when you have some honey lying in your cupboard. Give your skin the benefit of honey's powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and ultra-moisturizing properties and use it as a face mask.

For a naturally exfoliating facial, just add some sugar to create a moisturising scrub. Honey is a fantastic moisturiser and works wonders on patches of dry skin.

Use it to soften up those knees and elbows, and it will even work wonders on chapped lips. Just rub on some honey, leave it to work on your skin for up to 30 minutes, and then wash off.

Honey is also great for relaxing your body. Give your body an added treat by pouring in a few drops of raw honey in your bath water. It helps to soothe tired muscles and moisturise your skin. Try adding other essential oils like lavender oil.

Skin Tip: Mix two tablespoons of honey with two teaspoons of milk, apply on your face and let the skin soak up its natural goodness for about 10 minutes and rinse off.

For Silky Smooth Hair: Honey has properties that act as a natural agent for moisturising hair and cleansing your scalp. It leaves you with silky smooth hair without stripping them of natural oils.

Hair Tip: Add a teaspoonful to your usual shampoo to soften your hair, or combine with olive oil for a deep conditioning treatment - leave to work on damaged locks for 20 minutes before shampooing out.

A Natural Energy Booster: Forget your coffee fix and ditch the energy drinks. It's time to say goodbye to the sugar high that more often than not leads to a rapid energy crash and burn.
Tip: For a natural energy boost, use honey in place of sugars and sweeteners in your tea, baking and cooking. You'll soon notice the difference in your energy levels.

Get Over that Hangover: Had a great party last night that lead to a rather lousy morning? Never mind, honey is at your rescue! A few tablespoons of fructose-packed honey will help speed up your body's metabolism and help you combat the hangover.

CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT OUR HONEY RANGE.

It's that time of the year again — Daylight Savings is arriving, and as we "spring forward," we set our alarm clocks forward one hour.

It can be tough to give up those precious minutes, so we would like to share with you some healthy sleeping tips to help maximise your bedtime and quickly adjust to Daylight Savings.

1. Sleep when you're sleepy.

Even though you're losing an hour in the day, it's best to not try to go to sleep an hour early. Go to bed at the time you normally do, instead of trying to "catch up".

Think of it this way — it’s easier to wait to eat at 8 p.m. than it is to force yourself to eat at 4 p.m. when you’re not hungry. The same goes for sleep. If you wait until you’re actually sleepy, you’ll get a more quality night of sleep — even if it’s only five hours.

2. Don't trick your body during the transition to Daylight Savings

It's important to adjust to the time change right away. If you normally wake up at 7 a.m., keep waking up at that time, even after the clocks have changed.

The biggest mistake you can make is 'sleeping in' the night after the transition. The brain needs 24 hours to reset itself, and if you try to 'make up' sleep, it’s only going to make the transition harder.

3. Soak up some light.

Get acclimated to the beginning of the day as soon as you can, by opening the blinds or curtains and letting that sunlight in.

4. Move around (it doesn't even have to be exercise).

To further spark up your senses, it's best to get moving. If you're not a gym person, just do simple things such as jumping jacks or light housework.

5. Resist the urge to nap.

Even if you come home from work or school feeling exhausted, fight away any nap-time feelings. You shouldn't try to grab the lost hour of sleep, because it'll create a harmful cycle. This can really throw off your routine and perpetuate the rough transition.

6. Get your body ready for sleep.

If you're slowly getting ready to go to bed, "turn off as many lights as possible. It sends a signal to your body to relax, because sleep is on the way. You'll be physically and mentally prepared to have a night full of total slumber.

7. Children

Keeping your children’s bedtimes during daylight savings can be difficult, children can often wake earlier and get to sleep later as their body’s and minds adjust. Here are some tips you might find useful when daylight savings approaches:

• In the week leading up to daylight savings, try getting your child into bed a little earlier each night. For example, adjust their bedtime by 15 minutes earlier each night this will be less noticeable to the body.
• Even if they don’t fall asleep until their regular bedtime they will be adjusting their body and mind into going to bed earlier.
• If your child struggles to sleep while it’s light try making their room darker.
• It can take overly tired children even longer to fall asleep so avoid trying to ‘wear them out’ to get them to sleep.

Remember it might take a few nights for them to get used to the change – generally it takes a week for everyone to adjust.

NZ Study Questions Fish Oil Quality and EPA/DHA Content

January 21: Because of negative media coverage in Australia and New Zealand, GOED  (Global Organization for EPA and DHA) wants to make its members aware of today’s publication of “Fish oil supplements in New Zealand are highly oxidised and do not meet label content of n-3 PUFA” in the journal Scientific Reports. Media reports indicate that the results may trigger an investigation by regulatory authorities in both New Zealand and Australia.
In the study, 32 fish oil supplements were analyzed for EPA+DHA content and levels of oxidation. According to the study authors, “…there was a marked disparity between the label claimed content of EPA+DHA and the actual capsule content of these fatty acids, with supplements containing on average 68% (SD=23%) of the claimed content. Only three of the 32 oils tested contained a quantity of EPA+DHA that was equal to or higher than that claimed by the label, with more than two-thirds of supplements (22; 69%) containing less than 67%. Two supplements contained approximately one third of the label concentrations of EPA+DHA.”
In addition, 36 fish oil supplements were analyzed for oxidation against limits that are in the GOED Voluntary Monograph. According to the authors, “30/36 (83%) products exceeded the recommended Peroxide Value (PV) limit, 9/36 (25%) exceeded the p-Anisidine Value (pAV), and 18/36 (50%) exceeded recommended Totox thresholds. Only 3 of 36 oils tested (8%) met all the international recommendations, not exceeding any of these indices.”
The results are surprising, given that fish oil supplements are tightly regulated in Australia and New Zealand, with quality standards in place to which the industry must adhere. These include meeting label claims about EPA+DHA content and long-term stability testing relative to oxidation. The results seem suspect to GOED and may indicate issues in methods or handling of oils.
GOED consulted with fatty acid experts about this article and some of their concerns follow:  
None of the 30% products tested actually contained 30% EPA+DHA. All but one were in the 17-19% range, which seems strange. Because of the consistency of the results, it seems likely that the authors were using a method that yields incomplete results. The authors did disclose their method and did not follow the accepted AOCS, European Pharmacopeia, or GOED Voluntary Monograph methods, although it is unclear whether the authors’ method was validated.
The authors’ statement that “oxidation may at least in part account for the low n-3 PUFA levels” suggests a lack of general knowledge of lipid analysis. The amount of n-3 PUFA lost to the oxidation implied by high pAV and PV is too low to be picked up by FAME analysis.
If flavored oils were analyzed, this would have been problematic because many flavors contain aldehydes that interfere with pAV testing.
There is no industry standard for reporting EPA+DHA content on labels and it wasn’t clear from the article if the different reporting methods were considered. It is also very important to realize that triglyceride (TAG) oils may be reported as a TAG form or as a free fatty acid (FFA) form, and ethyl ester (EE) oil may be reported as an EE form or a FFA form. The oils reported in the article were not differentiated.  
According to the authors, “A 12 ml sample of oil was produced by combining the contents of 8–24 capsules (depending on capsule size). From this pooled oil sample, PV, AV, Totox, and fatty acid concentration were measured in triplicate.” It’s important to know that the analyses must be done immediately before the oils oxidize. The data reported in Table 1 in the study appears to have been generated by someone with limited experience handling n-3 PUFA oils. Typically, you see much higher AVs than PVs, but in the case of the oils reported in line 15 (Canada), 25 (Australia) and 32 (New Zealand), this is reversed, which suggests poor handling of the oil. Generally, high PVs suggest the oils were oxidized upon opening the capsule.
Due to the suspicious nature of the results, GOED has decided that its next round of randomized testing of currently marketed products will be selected exclusively from the New Zealand market. Once GOED has the results, it intends to share them with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia and Medsafe in New Zealand. In addition, The Omega-3 Centre in Australia has been leading a media outreach effort to ensure that some balance is included in the reporting on the issue.
It should be noted that Australia’s TGA lays out specific methods to be used for measuring compliance with its compositional guidelines. The authors of this paper did not use the TGA-approved European Pharmacopeia methods for measuring EPA and DHA content and appear to have modified the approved methods for measuring oxidation.

The above article is the copy right material of the GOED. Click here to read full article

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Sea Cucumbers, belonging to the class Holothuroide, are innocuous creatures that inhabit the seas worldwide. They live on the sandy seafloor and around coral reefs. There are more than one thousand species of sea cucumbers, ranging in size from a few centimetres (one inch) to two metres (several feet). As their name would suggest they have a soft body the shape and texture of a cucumber. Sea Cucumbers have no brain, but have developed a surprising defense mechanism called evisceration: they can expel most of their internal organs (which regrow) to ward off and confuse predators!

Deep Blue Health Sea Cucumber is sourced from the waters of the mighty Pacific Ocean. Our capsules contain 100% sea cucumber from the Holothuria atra family. Valued as a nutritious food source long before its healing properties were understood sea cucumber have been an integral part of Asian cuisine for centuries. Contrary to what their name suggests these invertebrate animals are sand dwelling creatures with extraordinary healing powers. Modern science now recognises that certain nutrients are essential for health. Glucosamine Sulphate and Chondroitin are naturally occurring compounds which are some of the building blocks of connective tissue, cartilage and synovial fluid in healthy joints. Triterpenoids are gaining much attention for therapeutic properties and being investigated for their potential in treating many chronic diseases.

Marine sources of Triterpenoids include marine sponges, marine algae and sea cucumbers. In a journal article published in Molecules (July 2013), entitled ‘Triterpenoids of Marine Origin as Anti-Cancer Agents’ the authors state that: “…triterpenoids are known to exhibit cytotoxicity against a variety of tumor cells…” Sea Cucumber in particular contains at least four different Triterpenoids which exhibit properties against breast cancer, pancreatic cancer and leukaemia.

From a nutritional view-point, sea cucumbers are an ideal tonic and have an impressive profile of high-value nutrients such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B1 (thiamine), Vitamin B2 (riboflavin), Vitamin B3 (niacin), and minerals, especially calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc.

Sea cucumber protein, is rich in glycine, glutamic acid and arginine. Glycine can stimulate production and release of IL-2 and B cell antibody and thus contributes to enhancing phagocytosis. Glycine and glutamic acid are essential components for cells to synthesize glutathione which can stimulate activation and proliferation of NK cell. Arginine can enhance cell immunity by promoting activation and proliferation of T-cell. Due to these amino acid components, sea cucumbers have remarkable function in immune regulation. A major proportion of the sea cucumber body wall protein is comprised of collagen. Collagen is recognized as a valued component in the connective tissues, due to its usefulness and specific distribution.

Another group of functional substances namely, mucopolysaccharides and chondroitins, have also been identified in sea cucumbers. It has been seen that people suffering from arthritis and connective tissue disorders, are often devoid of these compounds. As such, sea cucumber-derived chondroitin sulphate can be used  to ease joint-pain and arthritis like disorders. It is for this reason that about 3 g/day serving of the dried sea cucumbers is medicinally effective in reducing arthralgia to a significant level¹. The mechanism of action of chondroitin sulphate is considered to be similar to that of glucosamine sulphate; the latter compound is currently in use as therapeutic agent for easing osteoarthritis.

In addition to having a high nutritious value, sea cucumbers have long been recognised in the folk medicine system of Asian countries. An impressive range of medicinal health functions, for example, nourishing the body, tonifying kidney, treatment of stomach ulcers, asthma, hypertension, rheumatism and wound healing have been associated with sea cucumber. Most importantly, the potential medicinal benefits and multiple biological properties of sea cucumbers are now gaining recognition in modern biomedical research. Scientists believe that sea cucumber extracts are beneficial for human health in different ways and can help reduce the growth of cancer cells. Although there are studies underway, nothing has been completed on humans at this stage. For more detailed information see the US Library of National Medicine web page.

In addition to health medicinal uses, interestingly, there is much demand for sea cucumber as aphrodisiac food to improve sexual performance.

Buy Deep Blue Health Sea Cucumber now.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that are vital for human health. While your body can't make Omega-3, you can get them through eating the right foods and taking supplements. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in oily fish such as herring, sardines, salmon, tuna, blue cod, orange roughy and halibut. Other seafoods such as green lipped mussel and krill oil are also good sources of Omega-3. For people who do not eat fish, or take Omega-3 marine-based supplements, flax seed oil is a good herbal alternative.

It's generally recommended that we eat 2-3 servings of fish rich in Omega-3 per week. For many people, especially large families, this is an expensive way to get enough dietary Omega-3. Deep Blue Health Omega-3 soft gel capsules are the ideal way to top up your Omega-3 requirements. For less than the price of a coffee per day it's possible to make sure that your whole family has the Omega-3 that they need for healthy metabolic function.

WHY IS OMEGA-3 FISH OIL GOOD FOR YOU?

The three types of Omega-3 fatty acids that are important for normal metabolic function are: ALA (α-linolenic acid) found in plant oils, EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), both commonly found in marine sources and they're essential for the following areas:

HEALTHY BRAIN AND RETINA FUNCTION FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN

High levels of DLA are required by the brain and retina of the eye for optimal brain function, and to retain healthy vision for adults. DLA is important for the brain and retina development of children, and also their learning ability, and mental development. It is also critical for infant brain growth. With DLA thought to constitute 8% of the weight of an infant brain, pregnant mothers are encouraged to make sure their intake of Omega-3 is sufficient. Leading infant formula manufacturers also add DLA to their formulas. Infants require a lot of DLA in the first two years of life (and longer) to support brain growth.

HEART HEALTH

Omega-3 fatty acids are known to be beneficial for cardiovascular health. Clinical evidence suggests that EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), the two omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil help lower the risk of heart disease by controlling the levels of fats (triglycerides) in the blood, resulting in less plaque buildup and hardening of the arteries.

JOINT PAIN RELIEF

Small doses of Omega-3 can reduce the symptoms of rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Omega-3 can help stiffness of joints in the morning, and decrease joint pain to the extent that doses of in some cases dosages of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be reduced.

MOOD BALANCE FOR CHILDREN

Omega-3 also assists to balance mood in kids. For parents who have children that experience mood swings Omega-3 supplements can be very beneficial for everyone. Deep Blue Health produces a special Omega-3 product specifically for children called Omega-3 Junior.

DEEP BLUE HEALTH OMEGA-3 SUPPLEMENT

You won't get fresher Omega-3 on the market. Deep Blue Health sources Omega-3 from the freshest, sustain-ably harvested sardines and anchovies in South Pacific waters. Our product is free of contaminants, mercury and heavy metals associated with larger fish.

We guarantee ours is the freshest and most potent on the market.

Buy Deep Blue Health Omega-3 supplement here.

Sea cucumber has long been considered a delicacy in Asian cuisine, but it is only in this recent decade that science has verified the therapeutic benefits of sea cucumber. The meat of the sea cucumber is relatively tasteless, but tends to absorb the flavours of aromatics and sauces very well. The texture is quite gelatinous, like okra or eggplant depending on preparation. For a seemingly bland and uninteresting sand dwelling sea creature, the sea cucumber packs a mighty nutritional and therapeutic punch. The list of conditions that sea cucumber is potentially very good for, is very long indeed. In medical terms, the list includes: angiogenesis, cancer, tumours, hypertension, inflammation, and are also considered to contain effective antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, antithrombotic, and wound healing properties.

Over the centuries sea cucumber have been prized for its restorative qualities. It's a good general tonic also with properties thought to enhance male potency and stamina. Sea cucumber is both a functional food, rich in nutrients and trace elements, and a delicacy in its own right. The nutritional analysis of sea cucumber makes for some impressive reading. They are vitamin rich with Vitamin A, Vitamin B1 (thiamine), Vitamin B2 (riboflavin), Vitamin B3 (niacin) and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc.

The therapeutic properties and health benefits of sea cucumbers can be linked to the bioactives such as triterpene glycosides (saponins), chondroitin sulfates, glycosaminoglycan (GAGs), sulfated polysaccharides, sterols (glycosides and sulfates), phenolics, cerberosides, lectins, peptides, glycoprotein, glycosphingolipids and a range of essential fatty acids and amino acids.

While Sea cucumber is used to treat a broad spectrum of conditions, it's thought to provide immune support against many types of cancer, relief from joint pain and inflammation — especially for osteoarthritus suffers, reduces high blood pressure, and is a powerful antioxidant. You won't have to partake of a Chinese banquet to get your RDA of sea cucumber, unless that is also how you like to enjoy your sea cucumber. Instead, you can purchase freeze dried capsules of New Zealand's Deep Blue Health Sea Cucumber. No unusual textures to deal with, just a glass of water and a couple of capsules every day.

EFFECTIVE IMMUNE SUPPORT

Sea cucumber protein is rich in amino acids such as glycine, glutamic acid and arginine. Glycine can stimulate production and release of IL-2 and B cell antibodies. These antibodies perform an important task of engulfing foreign bodies within the human body.

Glycine and glutamic acid are essential elements for cells to synthesize glutathione which can stimulate activation and proliferation of natural killer cells. Natural killer or NK cells are important for the rapid response of the body's immune system, attacking viruses and tumours, and forming an adaptive immune response against infections and secondary infections. The role of NK cells is becoming increasingly important in research for potential cancer therapies.

Research has found that cancer patients have low Argenine levels, which is thought to suppress the development of T-cells: another antibody that are an important front line defense against tumour cells. Taking sea cucumber may supplement the body's Argenine supply to promote the activation and proliferation of T-cells.

Sea cucumber also contains cytotoxic compounds that may be useful to directly combat a variety of tumor cells. In particular sea cucumber are a source of Triterpenoids which “are known to exhibit cytotoxicity against a variety of tumor cells”. Sea cucumber contains at least four Triterpenoids which have shown promising results against breast, pancreatic and bowel cancer, and also leukaemia.

For these properties alone sea cucumber provides an impressive range of actions that may support the immune systems of cancer compromised patients. People who are genetically predisposed to bowel cancer but are otherwise healthy may take sea cucumber to assist the prevention of cancerous cells proliferating in the colon or bowel.

JOINT SUPPORT AND RELIEF

Another group of bioactive substances, mucopolysaccharides and chondroitins have been identified in sea cucumbers. People suffering from arthritis and connective tissue disorders can often be lacking these compounds. Sea cucumber is rich in mucopolysaccharides, chondroitins and also collagen, as the major proportion of the sea cucumber body wall protein is comprised of collagen. Collagen is universally recognized as a necessary component of healthy functioning connective tissue.

Sea cucumber-derived chondroitin sulphate can be used to ease joint-pain and other arthritis-based inflammation. It is recommended that a 3 g/day serving of the dried sea cucumber is medicinally effective in significantly reducing joint pain1. The mechanism of action of chondroitin sulphate is similar to that of glucosamine sulphate; a compound found in many formulations used for easing osteoarthritis pain and inflammation.

OTHER CONDITIONS

Sea Cucumber is also an ACE inhibitor, it reduces blood pressure and thins the blood. Refer to your doctor if you are taking any medication for heart conditions first.

DEEP BLUE HEALTH SEA CUCUMBER

Our sea cucumber is sustainably wild harvested from populations in the Pacific Ocean. You can be assured that our product is from one of the purest oceans in the world.

A superb tonic, it is known to improve stamina (by reducing the buildup of lactic acid in muscles). Other benefits include improving pain of arthritis sufferers, and   assisting with the immune health of oncology patients, particularly breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, bowel cancer and leukaemia sufferers. The list of sea cucumber benefits is immense. Try Deep Blue Health Sea Cucumber for yourself, or give it to someone you care about. We think you'll be pleasantly surprised by the results of taking this very humbly named sand dwelling creature.