Frequently Asked Questions

Coenzyme Q10 is an essential component of living cells which is produced in the body and functions to provide energy production at a cellular level, as well as having antioxidant activity. The heart muscles have the greatest need for CoQ10 followed by the liver and skeletal muscles. Dietary sources of CoQ10 include red meat, fish and vegetable oils such as soybean, sesame and canola. Individuals participating in endurance sports can benefit from CoQ10 as can heart patients where CoQ10 can improve symptoms and exercise tolerance. Deficiencies have also been linked to gum disease and lowered immune function.

Glucosamine is a natural component found in the cartilage matrix and synovial fluid of joints. It is a major building block of the substances that, together with protein, form the structural units in cartilage. Chondroitin, like glucosamine, is a natural component of cartilage. Chondroitin is also involved in the lubrication and nutrition of the joint, and helps the joints to resist compression. They both appear to work together in the synthesis of cartilage, reduce cartilage wear and provide temporary relief of the pain associated with arthritis.

Fish oil is a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to reduce inflammation and joint swelling associated with arthritis. Blackmores Omega Joint contains a concentrated dose of omega-3 fatty acids at three times the strength of standard fish oil. Lyprinol® has a more complex lipid structure compared to other marine oils, such as fish oil. It has been clinically proven to decrease joint pain from both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Many people living with arthritis benefit by starting with a glucosamine product or combined glucosamine and chondroitin product such as Blackmores Joint Formula with Glucosamine & Chondroitin, then adding extra support for inflammation, pain or swelling. Whether you choose standard fish oil, a concentrated fish oil or Lyprinol® depends on your personal needs and degree of discomfort.

There is no evidence to suggest that taking Echinacea long term will have an adverse effect on immune function. Studies have shown that Echinacea improves immunity by enhancing the ability of the immune system to act as a surveillance mechanism against pathogens. A lower dose preparation is suitable for long term preventative use, however, for symptoms of acute infection and shorter treatment duration, Blackmores Liquid Echinacea or Echinacea Forte may provide more immediate relief.

There are many forms of calcium you can obtain from food other than dairy products. A brief list starting from the highest source includes: sesame seeds, tahini, sea vegetables (wakame, kombu, nori, agar agar), sardines with bones, dried green peas, almonds, mackerel, dried bananas, chestnuts, salmon with bones, cooked soybeans, hazelnuts, tofu and dark leafy greens.

A diet rich in fibre and maintaining adequate fluid intake of at least 6-8 glasses filtered water per day plus regular exercise, are important first steps in relieving sluggish bowel activity. Insoluble fibres found in vegetables, most grains including oats and rice bran, add greater faecal bulk and decrease the transit time. Blackmores Digestive Bitters before meals stimulates digestive function. Acidophilus bifidus helps to re-establish the healthy flora that resides in the gut, which will help to eliminate gas (flatulence), bloating and constipation. A cup of fennel tea after meals assists the digestive process and reduces flatulence.

Tiredness and fatigue are amongst the most common complaints experienced by Australians. It is important to establish the cause of your fatigue. Fatigue and tiredness may be a symptom of an underlying condition and this will need to be initially investigated and ruled out. Lifestyle is often a major determinant affecting an individual’s energy levels.

If the fatigue is due to stress and overwork, Blackmores Energy Formula may be beneficial. Blackmores Energy Formula helps maintain the healthy function of the nervous system and adrenal glands and helps to overcome fatigue. Blackmores Executive B Stress Formula, a vitamin and mineral supplement containing herbs, may also be beneficial.

Blackmores Korean Ginseng is a herb that has been traditionally used to support energy levels, reduce fatigue, enhance concentration and work efficiency, improve the ability to adapt to stress and help with convalescence after illness. Blackmores Korean Ginseng assists in enhancing stamina and endurance to maintain peak effort during times of high physical demand.
Fundamentally, a healthy diet, regular exercise plus good sleep patterns are important elements to consider when addressing low energy states.

As we age, poor circulation to the brain can result in symptoms of impaired memory and concentration, forgetfulness, confusion, lack of energy and tiredness. An extract of the herb Gingko biloba, has been used in many trials and shows positive improvements in the areas of cognitive function. Gingko also has benefit in improving circulation to peripheral areas of the body. As it improves circulation and reduces the stickiness of blood platelets, consult your health care professional if taking anticoagulant medication.

Blackmores PhytoLife® is based on extracts of soy standardised to contain isoflavone glycosides which have been found to be of benefit during menopause when oestrogen production by the ovaries decreases.

Blackmores 45 Plus combines dong quai – a traditional tonic for the female reproductive system; black cohosh – traditionally used to relieve the symptoms of menopause and St Johns wort – traditionally used for relief of nervous tension and mild anxiety associated with menopause.
Increase regular exercise and include fresh green leafy vegetables, soy products and fresh ground linseeds in the diet. Decrease caffeine intake and increase water consumption to between 1.5 and 2 litres daily.

During pregnancy the body's requirement for certain nutrients is increased. Combined with a healthy diet, taking a supplement specifically formulated for pregnancy is advisable to support the recommended daily intake of nutrients (RDIs). Blackmores Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding Gold formula provides 17 essential nutrients including 10 vitamins, 6 minerals and omega-3 fatty acids which may be beneficial to a mother and her developing baby. It is recommended during pregnancy as well as when breast-feeding.

Blackmores I-Folic® contains both iodine and folic acid, which are important preconception nutrients. Iodine is essential for normal thyroid function, and is important for a baby’s brain development, visual skills, motor skills and hearing. Folic acid, if taken prior to conception, may reduce the risk of women having children with birth defects of the brain and/or spinal cord, such as spina bifida. Folic acid is also one of the nutrients necessary for the production of normal red blood cells. Not to be taken with Blackmores Pregnancy & Breast-Feeding Gold Formula or other folate supplements.

Proseren is a concentrated extract of the herb Serenoa serrulata. The herb has been shown to relieve symptoms of medically diagnosed benign prostatic hyperplasia; these include frequency of urination, hesistancy, impairment of urinary stream and nocturia. BPH seems to be dependant on the actions of male hormones within the prostate.

Avoid stimulants such as coffee, tea, and cola drinks late in the day and replace with herbal teas such as chamomile. Reduce alcohol and avoid eating a large meal late at night Blackmores Tranquil Night or Valerian Forte are recommended for the temporary relief of insomnia and disturbed sleep. Tranquil Night combines the gentle sedative herbs Valerian, Hops and Passionflower with the synergistic action of vitamins specific for relaxing the nervous system and thereby improving sleep. Valerian Forte is a product, which contains a standardised dosage of Valerian, at a dosage that has been demonstrated to improve sleep quality and to reduce the symptoms of irregular sleep patterns such as the time taken to fall asleep and reducing night wakening. Both these products lack the common side effects of pharmaceutical sedatives and are non-habit forming. As insomnia can be due to a variety of causes, if it persists consult your health professional.