DarrenMaguire

The Immune System 4 Part Masterclass Series: Join us for an individual masterclass or take all 4 masterclasses on Saturdays from 12 to 6pm. Join us on this plant based journey of looking at the complex immune system through culinary medicine, fermentation, skincare and lifestyle medicine. This is a deep dive into understanding the complex immune system in a comprehensive, informative, practical and empowering way. Book Full Course Now    Day 1: Masterclass 1: The Immune System Via Culinary Medicine. Book Day 1 Day 2: Masterclass 2: The Immune System Via Fermentation. Book Day 2 Day 3: Masterclass 3: The Immune System Via Skincare. Book Day 3 Day 4: Masterclass 4: The Immune System Via Lifestyle Medicine. Book Day 4   The immune system is a complex system of structures and processes that has evolved to protect us from disease. Molecular and cellular components make up the immune system. The function of these components is divided up into nonspecific mechanisms, those which are innate to an organism, and responsive responses, which are adaptive to specific pathogens. Fundamental or classical immunology involves studying the components that make up the innate and adaptive immune system. Innate immunity is the first line of defence and is non-specific. That is, the responses are the same for all potential pathogens, no matter how different they may be. Innate immunity includes physical barriers (e.g. skin, saliva etc) and cells (e.g. macrophages, neutrophils, basophils, mast cells etc). These components ‘are ready to go’ and protect an organism for the first few days of infection. In some cases, this is enough to clear the pathogen, but in other instances the first defence becomes overwhelmed and a second line of defence kicks in. Adaptive immunity is the second line of defence which involves building up memory of encountered infections [...]

Green tea, which contains powerful antioxidants, is one of the most popular beverages consumed around the world. Of all the antioxidant compounds found in green tea, the major constituents are polyphenols, including phenolic acids and catechins. Catechins from green tea belong to the family of flavonoids that are powerful antioxidants and free iron scavengers. Many botanical flavonoids possess strong antioxidant activities in the cardiovascular system. Effects of green tea on cancer chemoprevention have been attributed to its antioxidant activities. The highest amount off these compounds are found in matcha tea. EGCG is the most abundant and powerful antioxidant in green tea for cancer chemoprevention. Researchers also found that the green tea polyphenol epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) stops the formation of beta-amyloid plaques — a hallmark of Alzheimer'sdisease — by interfering with the function of beta-amyloid oligomers. Green tea contains a bioactive called EGCG that makes a natural antioxidant enzyme called GSTP1 that protects your DNA from oxidative stress. By the way, EGCG can also activate tumor suppressor genes that stop cancer cells from growing. - Dr. William li  Organic Highest Grade Pure Japanese Matcha at Plant Based Academy Direct from small family run Organic Farm in Kagoshima JapanPerfect high dose of antioxidant, antiangiogenic, anti cancer flavonoid EGCG. Whisk into 80 degree water or plant based milk for a beautifully stimulating beverage with huge health benefits. Matcha Kotobuki is a blend of first harvest Tencha – Origin Makizono, Kagoshima on the foot of the Kirishima volcanic mountain range. Grown on Volcanic soil called Shirasu. Order Highest Quality Organic Matcha Order Highest Quality Organic Matcha

When we meet our partners, we make an unconscious contract to help each other resolve emotional injuries of the past , we unconsciously pick or hire the perfect person to trigger this stored painful memory of our past , it is for this exact reason we have come together . Relationships are not a problem to be solved but an adventure to be embraced. Conflict is a gift to be unpacked , to embrace, an opportunity to grow , resolve and mature . Conflict can not be resolved at the level with which it was created. We hire the person in our life who is most compatible to help us resolve what is unresolved from our childhood. Our relationship lives in the space between us and it is sacred . This becomes the playground for our children . When there are only two options , take the third option ! Keep the space between you safe and sacred . Honour the space between you , by visiting the other by crossing the bridge . Cross the bridge with an open mind to learn , with curiosity and compassion , leave behind your hurt and trauma. Crossing the bridge is becoming completely present with your partner, listening without interruption, defensiveness or judgement, holding an unconditional space for your partner to share. Beyond right thinking and Beyond wrong thinking there is a field , I will meet you there - This is the third option Seven principles for Co Creating a Conscious Relationship with The Ultimate Relationship Program 1. The relationship lives in the space between us. 2. The emotional charged part of your partner is the child in them trying to tell their story , allow each other to tell that story by crossing the bridge. 3. We are energy that can be positive [...]

Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) influences energy-related metabolism and neurologic functions. PQQ is a catalyst for energy producing reactions in the mitochondria of our cells. The mechanism of action involves interactions with cell signaling pathways and mitochondrial function. PQQ has some evidence to show it improves mitochondrial function and lowers markers of inflammation. However, more study is needed. Mitochondrial function, which is responsible for energy production in our cells, gets worse over time as we age – so that’s why its important to boost it. PQQ is usually used as a dietary supplement because of the way it interacts with your body’s mitochondria. Mitochondria are the most important cellular components in your body. The mitochondria create adenosine triphosphate (ATP) which is the main source of energy for your cells (which is why mitochondria are affectionately known as the powerhouse of the cell.)It’s important to understand how much work your mitochondria do. Since they provide energy at a cellular level, they are responsible for the proper function of your entire body, cell by cell. If you have a problem with your mitochondria, chances are you’ll suffer from extreme, unmanageable fatigue and other symptoms. PQQ encourages the growth of new mitochondria and enhances their performance and energy output. More mitochondria and better function means more energy throughout the body and mind. PQQ is a Vital Nutrient Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) is a compound found in interstellar dust, that also acts to generate the spark of life in every living cell in our body; PQQ has nearly unlimited potential to improve human health. Specifically, PQQ is a novel vitamin-like compound that acts as a necessary active factor in the functioning of mitochondria. PQQ is showing a wide range of clinical benefits for brain and body function, based upon preclinical studies and initial clinical evaluation. PQQ stimulates growth and serves as a cofactor for a [...]

Everyday exposure to environmental chemicals is the #1 overlooked factor overwhelming your client’s health and driving chronic illness. Learn more about the effects of pesticides and environmental toxins for expert Laura Adler  Studies on organic vs. conventional produce and pesticides (referred to in the podcast): Chiu YH et al (2019) Association between intake of fruits and vegetables by pesticide residue status and coronary heart disease risk. Harvard School Of Public Health Panel on Pesticides and Health. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIM43XudPUY Potential toxic effects of glyphosate and its commercial formulations below regulatory limits Glyphosate-based herbicides (GlyBH), including Roundup, are the most widely used pesticides worldwide. Their uses have increased exponentially since their introduction on the market. Residue levels in food or water, as well as human exposures, are escalating. We have reviewed the toxic effects of GlyBH measured below regulatory limits by evaluating the published literature and regulatory reports. We reveal a coherent body of evidence indicating that GlyBH could be toxic below the regulatory lowest observed adverse effect level for chronic toxic effects. It includes teratogenic, tumorigenic and hepatorenal effects. They could be explained by endocrine disruption and oxidative stress, causing metabolic alterations, depending on dose and exposure time. Some effects were detected in the range of the recommended acceptable daily intake. Toxic effects of commercial formulations can also be explained by GlyBH adjuvants, which have their own toxicity, but also enhance glyphosate toxicity. These challenge the assumption of safety of GlyBH at the levels at which they contaminate food and the environment, albeit these levels may fall below regulatory thresholds. Neurodevelopmental, reproductive, and transgenerational effects of GlyBH must be revisited, since a growing body of knowledge suggests the predominance of endocrine disrupting mechanisms caused by environmentally relevant levels of exposure. Further Reading & Research Papers: Duk-Hee L, et al (2011) Low Dose [...]

NAD+ is essential to the creation of energy in the body and the regulation of pivotal cellular processes. Here’s why it’s so important, how it was discovered, and how you can get more of it. NAD+, or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, is a critical coenzyme found in every cell in your body, and it’s involved in hundreds of metabolic processes. But NAD+ levels decline with age. NAD+ has two general sets of reactions in the human body: helping turn nutrients into energy as a key player in metabolism and working as a helper molecule for proteins that regulate other cellular functions. These processes are incredibly important. The NAD+ co-enzymes NAD+, NADH, NADP+ and NADPH are the central regulators of metabolism. They are required for fuel oxidation, ATP generation, gluconeogenesis, ketogenesis, production of pentose phosphates, heme, lipids, steroid hormones and detoxification of free radical species. NAD+ is also a consumed substrate of enzymes that polymerize and/or transfer ADPribose, form cyclic ADPribose (cyclic ADPribose synthetases) and deacylate protein lysine substrates (sirtuins) with production of acyl-ADPribosyl products. Poly(ADPribose) polymerases (PARPs) signal DNA damage in order to assemble repair machinery, while cyclic ADPribose synthetases produce second messengers that mobilize calcium ions from intracellular stores, and sirtuins influence gene expression and protein activities by virtue of reversing protein post-translational modifications. In light of the important roles of NAD+ co-enzymes in metabolism and mediating some of the longevity benefits of calorie restriction via sirtuins, there is a renewed interest in the synthesis and maintenance of the NAD+metabolome. All tissues produce NAD+ from nicotinamide (NAM) or the recently identified NAD+ precursor, nicotinamide riboside (NR) Some tissues can produce NAD+ from tryptophan de novo and nicotinic acid (NA), although the generation of NAD+ from tryptophan is much less efficient than from the vitamin precursors of NA, NAM, or NR, which are collectively termed vitamin B3. NAD+ can also be supported [...]

AMP-activated protein kinase, or AMPK, is known as a master regulator of metabolism. Cells activate AMPK when they are running low on energy, and AMPK is activated in tissues throughout the body following exercise or during calorie restriction.A growing body of evidence sug­gests that boosting AMPK activity can prevent and even reverse, the life-shortening effects of aging. Insufficient AMPK activity may be related to virtually all pathological aging processes. Research indicates that restoring AMPK not only increases longevity, but works to fight the symptoms of aging in individual body systems. AMPK stands for adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase. It is found in every living cell of every living mammal (and most other animals) on Earth. If you want to avoid the life span-shortening symptoms of aging, you need to maintain optimal AMPK activity. AMPK has been referred to as a “metabolic master switch.” AMPK controls a gamut of metabolic pathways that enable us to extract energy from food, store and distribute that energy safely through the body, and ultimately use that energy for everything from moving and mating to talking and thinking, and even to understanding these very words as you read them. The core role of AMPK is to sense each cell’s energy status at every moment, and to trigger responses that maintain the cell’s energy at precisely the optimum level. Too little available energy starves the cell, while too much energy can exhaust and disrupt cellular components. In either case (too little or too much energy), the cell (and the tissues, organs, and systems in which it is a part) functions inefficiently. That energy inefficiency ultimately leads to the dysfunctions we identify as the diseases (or symptoms) of aging. Here’s how AMPK works: Every cell in your body depends absolutely on a steady supply of energy in the form of chemical [...]

Join The Plant Based Revolution and Earn a Professional Certificate in Plant Based Nutrition, Lifestyle Medicine, Raw Food Mastery & Culinary Medicine. Plant Based Academy is a world renowned international raw vegan organic plant based training institute. Plant Based Academy is a world authority on refined fine dining raw food mastery training, plant based nutritional science training, comprehensive lifestyle medicine training, advanced herbalism training and vegan organic edible skincare training. Plant Based Academy offers a number of advanced and comprehensive professional certificate courses and introduction courses around the world. Plant Based Academy offers one day certificate courses, 7 day intensive professional certificate courses and a 12-week professional certificate course. Plant Based Academy is dedicated and obsessively committed to "sustainable veganism" through plant based nutrition & lifestyle education. We believe strongly that with the proper guidance and knowledge on correct plant based nutritional science that not only is a plant based vegan diet and lifestyle an incredibly ethical decision for animals and our planet but a perfectly adequate and life long sustainable health promoting, disease preventing and reversing approach for all of us. The Professional Certificate Course: Book Your Space Now  Our professional certificate course is not only the most recognised plant based course available but also the most comprehensive and at the best value plant based certificate in the world . This is also the only course which focuses on plant based nutritional science , advanced fermentation & herbalism and we also include modules on advanced cacao making and vegan skincare. All produce is 100% organic. We do not use any processed sugars such as agave, coconut sugar or nectar. This course is a life changing course and an incredible investment for you and the planet. This course offers you a Professional Certification in Plant Based Nutrition , Lifestyle Medicine [...]

Join us in one of the most beautiful places on the planet to master the art and science of raw food and plant based nutrition on our 5 Day Raw Food Mastery & Culinary Medicine course with Plant Based Academy . Book your space now and avail of our Early Booking Price which is 30% discount. Spaces Limited. Plant Based Academy is a world renowned international raw vegan organic plant based training institute. Plant Based Academy is a world authority on refined fine dining raw food mastery training, plant based nutritional science training, comprehensive lifestyle medicine training, advanced herbalism training and vegan organic edible skincare training. Plant Based Academy is dedicated and obsessively committed to "sustainable veganism" through plant based nutrition & lifestyle education. We believe strongly that with the proper guidance and knowledge on correct plant based nutritional science that not only is a plant based vegan diet and lifestyle an incredibly ethical decision for animals and our planet but a perfectly adequate and life long sustainable health promoting, disease preventing and reversing approach for all of us. The Raw Food Mastery & Culinary Medicine Course: This course focuses on plant based nutritional science , advanced fermentation & herbalism and we also include modules on advanced cacao making and molecular gastronomy. All produce is 100% organic. We do not use any processed sugars such as agave, coconut sugar or nectar. This course is a life changing course and an incredible investment for you and the planet. This course offers you the confidence to prepare refined clean health plant based meals with plant based nutrition in mind. You do not need prior experience to take this course and you do not have to be a chef to take this course. This Course is suitable for doctors, nurses, chefs, health enthusiasts, [...]

Join The Plant Based Revolution and Earn a Professional Certificate in Plant Based Nutrition, Lifestyle Medicine, Raw Food Mastery & Culinary Medicine. Plant Based Academy is a world renowned international raw vegan organic plant based training university. We offer the most comprehensive plant based training offered anywhere in the world. Plant Based Academy is dedicated and obsessively committed to "sustainable veganism" through plant based nutrition & lifestyle education. We believe strongly that with the proper guidance and knowledge on correct plant based nutritional science that not only is a plant based vegan diet and lifestyle an incredibly ethical decision for animals and our planet but a perfectly adequate and life long sustainable health promoting, disease preventing and reversing approach for all of us. Professional Certificate at Plant Based Academy in Ubud Bali - Pay Deposit Plant Based Academy Ubud Bali is located last Alchemy Academy Ubud. We offer a large custom built kitchen classroom in a beautiful setting. Our Professional Certificate course here is delivered over 7 days. This is the most comprehensive plant based training in the world. Discover More  Professional Certificate at Plant Based Academy Dublin Ireland - Pay Deposit Plant Based Academy Dublin Ireland is located in a state of the art kitchen classroom at Ireland's best organic market. Our course here is delivered over 12 weeks. Students join class on Saturdays from 12 to 3pm each Saturday for 12 weeks. This is the most comprehensive plant based training in the world. Discover More 5 Day Introduction to Plant Based Nutrition & Lifestyle Medicine in Costa Rica January 2020 Join us in one of the most beautiful places on the planet to master the art and science of raw food and plant based nutrition on our 5 Day Raw Food Mastery & Culinary Medicine course with Plant Based Academy . Book your space now [...]

Join The Plant Based Revolution and Earn a Professional Certificate in Raw Food Mastery & Culinary Medicine. Plant Based Academy is a world renowned international raw vegan organic plant based training institute. Plant Based Academy is a world authority on refined fine dining raw food mastery training, plant based nutritional science training, comprehensive lifestyle medicine training, advanced herbalism training and vegan organic edible skincare training. Plant Based Academy offers a number of advanced and comprehensive professional certificate courses and introduction courses around the world. Plant Based Academy in Ubud Bali offers a 7 Day intensive professional certificate course which is the most comprehensive plant based education available in the world. Plant Based Academy is dedicated and obsessively committed to "sustainable veganism" through plant based nutrition & lifestyle education. We believe strongly that with the proper guidance and knowledge on correct plant based nutritional science that not only is a plant based vegan diet and lifestyle an incredibly ethical decision for animals and our planet but a perfectly adequate and life long sustainable health promoting, disease preventing and reversing approach for all of us. The Professional Certificate Course: Our professional certificate course is not only the most recognised plant based course available but also the most comprehensive and at the best value plant based certificate in the world . We do not use any processed sugars such as agave, coconut sugar or nectar. This course is a life changing course and an incredible investment for you and the planet. This course offers you a Professional Certification in Raw Food Mastery to a Michelin Star level. You do not need prior experience to take this course and you do not have to be a chef to take this course. This Course is suitable for doctors, nurses, chefs, health enthusiasts, experienced vegans and [...]

Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) Functions: converts food to energy, maintains healthy hair, nails, and skin, aids in mental focus and brain function Sources: Coriander, pine nuts, Jerusalem artichokes, hibiscus tea, watermelon, whole grains, acorn squash, soymilk, soybeans, rice bran, wheat germ, sunflower seeds, macadamia nuts (or butter), tahini, sesame seeds, spirulina, green peas, most beans, asparagus Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) Functions: converts food to energy, maintains healthy hair, nails, and skin, aids in mental focus and brain function. Sources: cereal grasses, whole grains, almonds, sesame seeds, spinach, fortified soy milk, spirulina, mushrooms, beet greens, quinoa, buckwheat, prunes. Vitamin B3 (Niacin) Functions: converts food to energy, maintains healthy hair, nails, and skin, aids in mental focus and brain function Sources: Chili powder, spirulina, peanuts, peanut butter, rice bran, mushrooms, barley, durian fruit, potatoes, tomatoes, millet, chia, whole grains, wild rice, buckwheat, green peas, avocados, sunflower seeds, tahini Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) Functions: converts food to energy, maintains healthy hair, nails, and skin, aids in mental focus and brain function. Sources:Paprika, Shiitake mushrooms, sunflower seeds (and sunbutter), whole grains, broccoli, mushrooms, avocados, tomatoes, soy milk, rice bran, sweet potatoes. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) Functions: aids in maintaining homeostasis, prevents anxiety by helping the amino acid tryptophan convert to niacin and serotonin for healthy nerve function and also helps ensure a healthy sleep cycle, appetite, and mood, red blood cell production, immune function. Sources: all soy products (choose non-GMO), bananas, watermelon, peanut butter, almonds, sweet potatoes, green peas, avocados, hemp seeds, spirulina, chia seeds, beans, rice bran, chickpeas, prunes, wheat germ, sunflower seeds, pineapple, plantains, hearts of palm, artichokes, water chesnuts, all squash and pumpkin, Brussels sprouts, green beans, pistachios, figs, nutritional yeast, baker’s yeast (active yeast), garlic, sage, peppers, kale, collards Vitamin B7 (Biotin) Functions: converts food to energy, helps reduce blood sugar by synthesizing [...]

Oxidative stress is a major player in the formation of pathological conditions such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, accelerated aging and neurodegeneration.  Anti-oxidant rich foods, herbs and supplements are used to protect the body from unwanted oxidative stress.  Recent research has found a new signaling pathway that plays an enormous role in amplifying the effects of anti-oxidants on the body.  In this article, you will discover 5 ways to activate the anti-oxidant benefits of the Nrf2 gene pathway. The body adapts to function in a state of homeostasis or balance.  When the body is confronted with major stressors the cells must quickly modulate their antioxidant capacity to counteract the increased oxidative stress.  In order to do this the body is able to activate a massive anti-oxidant effect in a matter of nanoseconds through a specific genetic pathway. The Keap1-Nrf2 Pathway and Your Health: Nrf2 (NF-E2-related factor 2) is a transcription factor in humans encoded by a specific gene that regulates the expression of a set of antioxidant and detoxifying genes.  This pathway is activated under times of oxidative stress to enhance the expression of a multitude of antioxidant and phase II liver detoxification enzymes that restore homeostasis to the ox/redox cycles in the body. An enzyme named (Keap1) which sits on the cytosol of the cell interacts with Nrf2 and activates it.  Keap1 is rich in the amino acid cysteine, and acts as a sensor that is constantly reading the environment for any increase or decrease in oxidative stress.  Under times of increased stress, Keap1 activates Nrf2 which then migrates into the cell nucleus and bonds to the DNA to active the Antioxidant Response Element (ARE).  ARE then upregulates a variety of powerful antioxidant enzymes and detoxifying proteins. This Keap1-Nrf2 pathway regulates over 600 genes involved in cellular protection and anti-oxidant defenses.  These various genes act [...]

Your life can be so much more than it is now. Imagine having increased energy, a better memory, and starting each day feeling positive and rested, ready to tackle whatever challenges may come. Recent advances in medical science have put this goal within reach. You and everyone you know has a vast, untapped potential to live more fully. But to realize your greatest potential your brain must operate at its highest level. The key to tapping this potential is Neurogenesis which is the process by which nervous system cells, known as neurons, are produced by neural stem cells (NSC)s. Neurogenesis is how the brain renews and upgrades itself. Understanding neurogenesis is the most revolutionary discovery of neuroscience in the past century. Although there is still much to be learned, recent studies have revealed that the process can be enhanced and encouraged by individual lifestyle choices. To increase neurogenesis is to improve your entire life— how you think, feel, and act. Research shows that high rates of neurogenesis are associated with: + Higher cognitive function+ Better memory and faster learning+ Emotional vitality and resilience+ Protection from stress, anxiety, and depression+ Elevated immunity+ Enhanced overall brain function Increasing neurogenesis dramatically improves everyday life at all stages and radically transforms what aging looks and feels like. There are vast differences in how quickly people produce new brain cells and your rate of neurogenesis may be the single most important factor for a high quality of life. When neurogenesis is high, you are alive, engaged, expansive, fulfilling your potential. Your mind’s abilities are enhanced and your emotional vitality is strong. You are protected from stress and depression. You feel good and life is fulfilling. Immunity is robust. Your spirits are high and your outlook is positive. With a low rate of neurogenesis, your brain shrinks, your life [...]

Nad+ is Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide which is a co factor found in all living cells. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, or NAD, is a coenzyme (a compound that certain enzymes need to work) in every cell that is crucial to the basic reactions in your cells that keep you alive. It occurs in two forms: NAD+ and NADH. To understand what NAD does in simple terms, think of NAD as a waiter that picks up an electron from one table and drops it off at another. The oxidized form, NAD+, grabs an electron from one molecule. While it has a hold on that electron, it becomes NADH. NADH donates that electron to another molecule, and it becomes NAD+ again. The simple act of shuffling electrons around helps your enzymes work, and those enzymes activate microscopic chemical reactions in your cells that keep them healthy and keep your whole body humming. There are two forms : Oxidized Nad = NAD+Reduced Nad = NADH Nad is more bioavailable when taken with co q10. Nad optimises mitochondria function. Niacin is a precursor of Nad and Tryptophan is a precursor to niacin and serotonin and melatonin. Niacin is B3 and is high in avocados. Another way which has gained huge popularity in the scientific community of directly boosting Nad+ is take a supplement called NR (Nicotinamide Riboside). A healthy thriving person with optimum mitochondria function will have a ratio of 700:1 (NAD:NADH)   What Is NAD+ and why is it Important for Aging and Health You can’t live without the coenzyme NAD+, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide. Here’s why it’s so important, how it was discovered, and how you can get more of it. NAD+, or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, is a coenzyme found in all living cells, and it’s required for the fundamental biological processes that make life [...]

MCT Oils, (from Medium-Chain Triglycerides. Triglycerides are a type of fat that comes from the foods we eat, such as butter, oils, and other fats. They are the most common type of fat found in our bodies, a result of excess caloric intake. They are stored in fat cells and later released when energy is required. Triglycerides are composed primarily of fatty acids and are named after the length of their fatty acid chains. MCTs may also be referred to as MCFA’s (Medium-Chain Fatty Acids). Most fats in our diet are made of long-chain fatty acids, Omega-3’s contain from 13 – 21 carbon atoms. And so, a triglyceride with a fatty acid carbon chain of only 6 to 12 atoms is known as a “medium-chain triglyceride. What makes MCTs unique is that they are metabolized differently than long-chain fatty acids found in most other foods. Typically, fats are absorbed by intestinal cells, placed inside chylomicrons which transport them to the lymphatic system to be circulated to the liver and adipose tissue throughout the body. These lipids with long-chain fatty acids are more easily stored. MCTs however, go straight to the liver meaning they are absorbed much faster. Once in the liver, MCTs can be used for instant energy, or they can be converted to ketones. And, remember, the brain uses ketones as it’s only alternative, and perhaps preferred, source of energy. There are four different MCTs; Caproic Acid – (C6), Caprylic Acid – (C8), Capric Acid – (C10), and Lauric Acid – (12). Each of the first three, the “Capr Acids,” go straight to the liver as mentioned above. In fact, the shorter the chain, the better the absorption and faster availability of energy. Lauric Acid, however, is routed through the stomach and the small intestine, does not go directly [...]

Buteyko Method (Buteyko Breathing Technique): The Buteyko Method first arrived to Australia and the UK from Russia in the early 1990s. Early on the method was popular with adults and children suffering from asthma. Over the past number of years, the Buteyko Method has shown to be efficacious in helping improve a number of breathing related problems including: Respiratory: asthma, rhinitis, hayfever Neurological: Anxiety, stress and panic attacks Childhood development: dental health, craniofacial development and ADHD Sleep disordered breathing: insomnia, snoring, central sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea The Buteyko method is named after its founder Doctor Konstantin Buteyko. It is the most effective drug-free approach for the management of asthma and other breathing related problems. It can be practiced by both adults and children, and gives quick and consistent results. The Buteyko method is neither a medical treatment nor procedure. It does not involve any medication, homeopathy or herbs. It is series of lectures related to breathing which enables people to understand a concept of 'normal breathing' or breathing according to physiological norms. It contains simple breathing techniques and logical instructions to follow. It also gives the means of controlling breathing parameters without any technical appliances. Buteyko method brings the physiological parameters of the body to the norm. It can be easily incorporated into the daily life of any contemporary person. It does not require you to interrupt your everyday activities to perform any sophisticated procedures similar to yogi's 'asana'. You can use the concept of the method at any time in any situation. The success of the Buteyko method in the treatment of asthma is backed by hard scientific data. Clinical trials funded by the Australian Association of Asthma Foundations in 1994 at the Mater Hospital in Brisbane demonstrated that asthmatics were able to reduce their symptomatic medication intake by [...]

Choline is a nutrient commonly grouped with B-vitamins. Choline has a variety of functions: It is part of cell membranes, helps nerves function properly, plays a role in liver function, is linked to our memory and mood, and may work with folic acid during pregnancy for the development of a baby’s brain and nervous system.Choline is an essential nutrient that is naturally present in some foods and available as a dietary supplement. Choline is a source of methyl groups needed for many steps in metabolism. The body needs choline to synthesize phosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin, two major phospholipids vital for cell membranes. Therefore, all plant and animal cells need choline to preserve their structural integrity. In addition, choline is needed to produce acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter for memory, mood, muscle control, and other brain and nervous system functions [1-3]. Choline also plays important roles in modulating gene expression, cell membrane signaling, lipid transport and metabolism, and early brain development. Humans can produce choline endogenously in the liver, mostly as phosphatidylcholine, but the amount that the body naturally synthesizes is not sufficient to meet human needs. As a result, humans must obtain some choline from the diet. Premenopausal women might need less choline from the diet than children or other adults because estrogen induces the gene that catalyzes the biosynthesis of choline [4]. When a diet is deficient in folate, a B-vitamin that is also a methyl donor, the need for dietary choline rises because choline becomes the primary methyl donor. The most common sources of choline in foods are the fat-soluble phospholipids phosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin as well as the water-soluble compounds phosphocholine, glycerolphosphocholine, and free choline. When these choline-containing compounds are ingested, pancreatic and mucosal enzymes liberate free choline from about half of the fat-soluble forms and some water-soluble forms [5]. [...]

Tantra is a spiritual path for integrating body, mind and soul. It differs from other paths in its honoring of the body, using the senses, sexuality, and feelings to help you evolve spiritually. Tantra assists you in realizing your full potential as a human being. If you choose to live from the tantric perspective, you will transform your life. You will discover bliss. You may apply tantric practices and principles to many areas of life - to relationship and sexual loving, spiritual practice and lifestyle, physical and emotional well-being. Red tantra is the aspect of tantra that relates to the mastery of sexual skills. White tantra relates to the yogic or spiritual aspects of tantric practice and consists of exercises or postures (asanas) combined with special breathing (pranayama), hand or finger gestures (mudras), internal muscular exercises (bhandas), chanting (mantra), and meditation. The skills and benefits of White tantra practices increase ones ability to master Red (sexual) tantra. Pink tantra refers to a heart centered path of tantra that blends many of the elements of White Tantra with some aspects of Red Tantra. Within the path of Pink Tantra, all of the chakras are acknowledged. However, there is an emphasis on the importance of the heart; opening the heart chakra and healing the heart. Compassion, acceptance and forgiveness for others and for our self are central themes to this practice. Pink Tantra teaches us to cultivate love without attachment, ownership or expectation. With Pink Tantra love is seen as the impetus for healing and transformation. Embodied Tantra Coaching with The International Embodied Tantra Institute is a unique blend of red, white & pink tantra. At the Heart of Tantra is Love. The practices and rituals of tantra, both spiritual and sexual, work to create the conditions necessary for love to flourish and endure. When we [...]

Trauma can be conceptualized as stemming from a failure of the natural physiological activation and hormonal secretions to organize an effective response to threat. Rather than producing a successful fight or flight response the organism becomes immobilized. Probably the best animal model for this phenomenon is that of ‘inescapable shock,” in which creatures are tortured without being unable to do anything to affect the outcome of events. The resulting failure to fight or flight, that is, the physical immobilization (the freeze response), becomes a conditioned behavioral response. In his book, Affect Regulation and the Origin of the Self, Allen Schore has outlined in exquisite detail the psychobiology of early childhood development involving maturation of orbitofrontal and limbic structures based on reciprocal experiences with the caregiver. Dysfunctional associations in this dyadic relationship result in permanent physicochemical and anatomical changes, which have implications for personality development as well as for a wide variety of clinical manifestations. An intimate relationship may exist, with negative child/care giver interaction leading to a state of persisting hypertonicity of the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems that may profoundly affect the arousal state of the developing child. Sustained hyperarousal in these children may markedly affect behavioral and characterological development. Many traumatized children and adults, confronted with chronically overwhelming emotions, lose their capacity to use emotions as guides for effective action. They often do not recognize what they are feeling and fail to mount an appropriate response. This phenomenon is called alexithymia, an inability to identify the meaning of physical sensations and muscle activation. Failure to recognize what is going on causes them to be out of touch with their needs, and, as a consequence, they are unable to take care of them. This inability to correctly identify sensations, emotions, and physical states often extends itself to having difficulty appreciating [...]

METABOLISM – THE CORNERSTONE OF ENERGETIC LIFE Metabolism is the continuous vital process of breaking down organic matter and forming new substances within the tissues of the body. The word is derived from the Greek word metabolemeaning “change.” Indeed, the body is in a constant state of change. The breakdown process is called catabolism whereas anabolism is the process by which living organisms synthesize new molecules. Metabolic reactions are affected by several reaction-accelerating body enzymes (biocatalysts). In addition, metabolism is regulated by hormones, various growth factors, vitamins, minerals, and the autonomic nervous system. Various chemical reactions form so-called metabolic pathways. Energy metabolism in particular is relevant to exercise. Metabolic pathways are crucial for the maintenance of homeostasis (the equilibrium of the body). The long-term imbalance of metabolic pathways may lead to various metabolic disorders. Genetic hereditary enzyme dysfunctions may also cause innate metabolic disorders (for example, a mutation in the MTHFR gene may cause an increased level of homocysteine and therefore an increased risk of cerebrovascular disorders). Examples of metabolism include the breaking down of carbohydrates, proteins and fats into energy (the citric acid cycle), the removal of superfluous ammonia through urine (the urea cycle) and the breakdown and transfer of various chemicals. The metabolic pathway that was first discovered was glycolysis in which glucose is broken down into pyruvate supplying energy (ATP and NADH) to cells. AEROBIC ENERGY SYSTEM The aerobic (requiring oxygen) metabolic process is also called cellular respiration. The processes involved in the aerobic energy system (cellular respiration) are glycolysis, pyruvate oxidation, the citric acid cycle and the electron transport chain. In practice, various cascades use glucose and oxygen to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate) that acts as an energy source. Byproducts of these processes include carbon dioxide and water. AEROBIC GLYCOLYSIS The first metabolic phase, glycolysis, takes place in the cytoplasm. When [...]

The importance of exercise to health and well-being was already known in Ancient Greece. Hippocrates (460–270 BCE) has been quoted: “Eating alone is not enough for health, there must also be exercise.” During the Renaissance, the significance of the individual's own actions on his or her health became of interest. Health was no longer in the hands of God alone. In his 1553 work, Book of Bodily Exercise Spanish doctor, Christóbal Méndez described exercise as “blessed medicine” for the health of individuals. This medical point of view became more and more prevalent entering the industrial era. In his 1769 book, Domestic Medicine, Scottish doctor, William Buchan indicated that exercise alone could prevent many illnesses that were difficult to treat. French doctor, Clement Tissot, on the other hand, highlighted the importance of incidental exercise. From the late 19th century exercise was introduced into school curricula. The significance of exercise to health and general well- being was understood rather early on. Proper scientific studies on the subject matter did not appear until the turn of the 20th century. The American Journal of Physiology was first published, and in 1920, physiology professor August Krogh won the Nobel Prize in medicine, having discovered the mechanism that regulates blood flow in the muscles. Research on the health benefits of exercise really took off in the 1950s when The Lancet published a groundbreaking study on the positive impact of exercise on the prevention of coronary heart disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) has created global recommendations on physical activity for health which are based on extensive research. For individuals aged between 18 and 64 physical activity includes recreational or leisure-time physical activity, transportation, occupational, household chores, games, sports or planned exercise, in the context of daily, family, and community activities. Improve endurance fitness by exercising several days per week [...]

Although cancer has historically been viewed as a disorder of proliferation, recent evidence has suggested that it should also be considered a metabolic disease. Growing tumors rewire their metabolic programs to meet and even exceed the bioenergetic and biosynthetic demands of continuous cell growth. The metabolic profile observed in cancer cells often includes increased consumption of glucose and glutamine, increased glycolysis, changes in the use of metabolic enzyme isoforms, and increased secretion of lactate. Oncogenes and tumor suppressors have been discovered to have roles in cancer-associated changes in metabolism as well. The metabolic profile of tumor cells has been suggested to reflect the rapid proliferative rate. Cancer-associated metabolic changes may also reveal the importance of protection against reactive oxygen species or a role for secreted lactate in the tumor microenvironment. Discoveries of Otto Warburg Otto Warburg’s pioneering work in the 1920s established that tumor cells exhibit altered metabolism. Warburg discovered an important distinction between the relative use of different modes of energy production in normal cells and tumors. In normal tissues, most of the pyruvate formed from glycolysis enters the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle and is oxidized via oxidative phosphorylation. In tumors, in contrast, the pyruvate is largely converted to lactic acid and energy is produced anaerobically. This finding seemed counterintuitive. Surely, a rapidly proliferating cancer cell would prefer the 36 ATPs that can be claimed by complete oxidation of a glucose molecule to the two ATPs available through glycolysis. Furthermore, this shift in metabolism in which pyruvate is converted to lactate and secreted, rather than being oxidized, occurred in tumors even when there was sufficient oxygen to support mitochondrial function. The conversion of most pyruvate to lactate through fermentation, even when oxygen is present, is called aerobic glycolysis or the Warburg effect.

Glutathione - Critical Master Detoxifier: Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide of cysteine (Sunflower Seeds & Tempeh), glutamate (Cabbage & Beans), and glycine (Tempeh & cabbage). These amino acids made the synthesis of GSH possible and act as a major cellular antioxidant in the body. Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant produced in humans, plants, animals, fungi and some bacteria. Glutathione is capabe of preventing damage to important cellular components caused by reactive oxygen species such as free radicals, peroxides, lipid peroxides and heavy metals. Glutathione is one of our bodies most important antioxidant, made up of three amino acids: Glutamine, glycine and cysteine. Sulfur is important for producing glutathione such as that found in onions, garlic and cruciferous vegetables. Vitamin C also plays a role in glutathione maintenance levels. Glutathione is a naturally occurring molecule that is present in every cell of the body. Levels decrease with age and low levels can cause many serious diseases. It is one of the most powerful antioxidants in the body as it is the only one that is intracellular. Scientists have found it is also useful to other antioxidants as it maximises the activity of Vitamin C, Vitamin E and CoQ10. While a healthy diet and lifestyle can help to slow the body’s decline, supplementing this with glutathione precursors can help to stimulate the body to produce more and thus maintain health and slow the aging process. N-acetyl L-cysteine (NAC) helps to replenish intracellular glutathione, a vital cellular antioxidant. NAC has a low molecular weight and is well absorbed via oral administration. NAC is a glutathione precursor that has been used in therapeutic practices for several decades. It has long been used to support healthy mucous production in a subset of patients and to support liver function. The GSH blood test will test for glutathione [...]

Plant Based Academy is a world renowned international raw vegan organic plant based training institute. We are a world leading authority on Culinary Medicine, Raw Food Mastery, Lifestyle Medicine and Plant Based nutritional science. Our training includes refined fine dining raw food mastery training, plant based nutritional science training, comprehensive lifestyle medicine training, advanced herbalism training, vegan organic edible skincare training and much more. Plant Based Academy offers a number of advanced and comprehensive professional certificate courses and introduction courses around the world. Including one day single module certificate courses, 7 day intensive professional certificate courses, our unique 12-week professional certificate course and our special graduates teaching training diploma program. Plant Based Academy is dedicated and obsessively committed to "sustainable veganism" through plant based nutrition & lifestyle education. We believe strongly that with the proper guidance and knowledge on correct plant based nutritional science that not only is a plant based vegan diet and lifestyle an incredibly ethical decision for animals and our planet but a perfectly adequate and life long sustainable health promoting, disease preventing and reversing approach for all of us. To complete the Professional diploma course you must have completed our Professional Certificate Course. About The Course: The course is developed by Institute Director, relational psychologist, plant based nutritionist, professional chef, passionate plant based and organic advocate & experienced restauranteur Darren Maguire who has been a strict raw organic vegan for over 14 years now. The unique curriculum is the same as our Plant Based Academy Professional Certificate Lifestyle Medicine Coaching program, which is comprised of 12 comprehensive modules each delivered with a background and framework of psychology, plant based nutritional science, the latest gut research, and refined culinary skill. As this is the teachers training course , the course will focus on the same content but [...]

Join The Plant Based Revolution and Earn a Professional Certificate in Plant Based Nutrition, Lifestyle Medicine, Raw Food Mastery & Culinary Medicine. Plant Based Academy is a world renowned international raw vegan organic plant based training institute. Plant Based Academy is a world authority on refined fine dining raw food mastery training, plant based nutritional science training, comprehensive lifestyle medicine training, advanced herbalism training and vegan organic edible skincare training. Plant Based Academy offers a number of advanced and comprehensive professional certificate courses and introduction courses around the world. Plant Based Academy offers one day certificate courses, 7 day intensive professional certificate courses and a 12-week professional certificate course. Plant Based Academy is dedicated and obsessively committed to "sustainable veganism" through plant based nutrition & lifestyle education. We believe strongly that with the proper guidance and knowledge on correct plant based nutritional science that not only is a plant based vegan diet and lifestyle an incredibly ethical decision for animals and our planet but a perfectly adequate and life long sustainable health promoting, disease preventing and reversing approach for all of us. The Professional Certificate Course: Our professional certificate course is not only the most recognised plant based course available but also the most comprehensive and at the best value plant based certificate in the world . This is also the only course which focuses on plant based nutritional science , advanced fermentation & herbalism and we also include modules on advanced cacao making and vegan skincare. All produce is 100% organic. We do not use any processed sugars such as agave, coconut sugar or nectar. This course is a life changing course and an incredible investment for you and the planet. This course offers you a Professional Certification in Plant Based Nutrition , Lifestyle Medicine & Raw Food Mastery [...]

The word “immunity”originates from the Latin word immunis meaning exempt. Generally speaking immunity consists of all of the body’s defense systems that resist infections and toxins. The immune system therefore has a crucial role in fending off intruders. The immune system can be thought of as a military defense system resisting uninvited guests. To put it dramatically, the troops patrolling the body mercilessly attack intruders, blasting bacteria, poisoning parasites, devouring viruses and forcing cancer cells to commit suicide. However, some- times the soldiers get hit by friendly fire. Autoimmune diseases such as arthritis and psoriasis involve a state of imbalance where the immune system erroneously attacks the body’s own protein, sugar or cell structures. Food and pollen allergies on the other hand are examples exaggerated reactions. Although functioning as a cohesive system, immunity is made up of various parts. A rough distinction can be made between innate (nonspecific) and adaptive (specific) immunity. As its name implies, innate immunity is what a person is born with. It is also affected by the vaccinations received as well as the foreign matter and microbes the person is exposed to during their lifetime. Innate immunity functions quickly, effectively and consistently. The activation of the adaptive immunity, on the other hand, is delayed by a few days in the event of detecting a foreign pathogen. Adaptive Immunity: Adaptive immunity can be divided into cell-mediated immunity and humoral (fluid-based) immunity. The adaptive immune response is kicked off by so-called helper T cells. In the immune reaction antigen-presenting cells (APC cells, part of innate immunity) mark and eat the pathogen. APC cells then move to lymph nodes where help- er T cells launch the actual adaptive immunity response. When a new pathogen is being encountered for the first time, the reaction is slow and can take up to two weeks. When [...]

Hesperidin is a compound in orange peels that gives the flavonoid hesperitin to the body, and this flavonoid mediates most benefits of hesperidin including an increase in circulation and possible brain protective effects. Hesperidin, alongside naringenin, are known as the main citrus flavonoids. Hesperidin is a bioflavonoid glycoside commonly found in citrus fruits (most notoriously oranges) and is a sugar-bound form of the flavonoid hesperitin. Hesperitin is known to mediate the actions of hesperidin in the body, and since hesperidin needs to progress to the colon to be 'released' by intestinal bacteria it acts as a time-release for hesperitin; one serving of hesperidin seems to increased blood levels for over the course of a day or so when consumed in this manner. If we are to look currently at the human evidence on orally ingested hesperidin, it appears to promote blood flow (minorly to moderately) and may have a weak influence on blood pressure while it is pretty much ineffective on cholesterol and triglycerides. Not much other human evidence exists aside from the cardiovascular parameters mentioned above, and it seems pretty weak at improving parameters of diabetes as well (with exception to the eyes, diabetic retinopathy, as preliminary evidence suggests that hesperidin is quite protective of them). That being said, in animal studies oral intake of hesperidin at a dose similar to that used in humans seems to be a very potent cardioprotection agent and is quite protective of the brain in response to various stressors; the protection is antioxidative in nature, but it seems to work through a currently not identified antioxidant responses from the genome. Aside from the protective effects (most notable in the heart and brain, but extend to every organ), hesperidin may be able to reduce a lack of appetite and have minor anti-allergic properties. Orange [...]

Plant Based Academy is a world renowned international raw vegan organic plant based training institute. Plant Based Academy is a world authority on refined fine dining raw food mastery training, culinary medicine, plant based nutritional science training, comprehensive lifestyle medicine training, bio hacking, advanced herbalism training and vegan organic edible skincare training. Plant Based Academy offers a number of advanced and comprehensive professional certificate courses and introduction courses around the world. Plant Based Academy offers one day certificate courses, 7 day intensive professional certificate courses and a 12-week professional certificate course. Plant Based Academy is dedicated and obsessively committed to "sustainable veganism" through plant based nutrition & lifestyle education. We believe strongly that with the proper guidance and knowledge on correct plant based nutritional science that not only is a plant based vegan diet and lifestyle an incredibly ethical decision for animals and our planet but a perfectly adequate and life long sustainable health promoting, disease preventing and reversing approach for all of us. The Professional Certificate Course: Our professional certificate course is not only the most recognised plant based course available but also the most comprehensive and at the best value plant based certificate in the world . This is also the only course which focuses on plant based nutritional science , advanced fermentation & herbalism and we also include modules on advanced cacao making and vegan skincare. All produce is 100% organic. We do not use any processed sugars such as agave, coconut sugar or nectar. This course is a life changing course and an incredible investment for you and the planet. This course offers you a Professional Certification in Plant Based Nutrition , Lifestyle Medicine & Raw Food Mastery to a Michelin Star level. You do not need prior experience to take this course and you do [...]

The Fat Debate Fat is a macronutrient. There are three macronutrients: protein, fats and carbohydrates. Macronutrients are nutrients that provide calories or energy. Large amounts are required to sustain life, hence the term “macro,” according to the University of Illinois McKinley Health Center. The amount of energy provided by the macronutrients varies: fat has 9 calories per gram, more than twice the number of calories in carbs and protein, which each have 4 calories per gram. The primary function of fat is as an energy reserve, according to Iowa State University. The body stores fat, or adipose tissue, as a result of excess calorie consumption. During exercise, the body first uses calories from carbohydrates for energy. After about 20 minutes, it uses calories from stored fat to keep going, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Saturated Fats Saturated fats are saturated with hydrogen molecules. Saturated fat comes from animal sources, such as red meats, poultry and full-or-reduced fat dairy products. Saturated fats are solid at room temperature. Other examples include cheese and butter. Oils that are solid at room temperature, like palm oil, palm kernel oil and coconut oil, also contain saturated fats. This means that baked goods can be high in saturated fats. Saturated fat is linked to high cholesterol levels and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Saturated fats also tend to contain a lot of calories. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends getting only 5 to 6 percent of calories from saturated fat. This puts someone on a 2,000-calorie-a-day diet with 120 calories or 13 grams of saturated fats per day. The 2010 U.S. Dietary Guidelines allow for up to 10 percent of calories to come from saturated fat. Trans Fats (also called trans fatty acids) Trans fats are sometimes found naturally in meats or [...]

This is a three hour advanced workshop on the science and application of fermentation. An invitation and induction into a new world of microbes and show you step by step how to make incredible home made kombucha, kefir  seed cheese, yogurt and sauerkraut. Book Now  This course is an advanced resource & guide on the art , history and science on fermentation, psychobiotics and our gut. This course will teach you how to make your very own raw vegan organic sugar free nut and seed cheese, fruit yogurt, medicinal kombucha, herbal water kefir, pickled vegetables, seaweed sauerkraut, traditional kimchi and much more. This advanced course is loaded with recipes, resources, tips about fermented foods and scientific discussion on the benefits of Probiotics, Gut Flora, Gut Health and the link between healthy brain and healthy gut. If you want to improve your health, the health of your loved ones, and improve your brain function, there’s one essential topic that you need to know. ( Probiotics & fermentation ). Upon completion of this course you will become a confident fermentationist equipped with the most up to date information about out the incredible workings of our microbiota and psychobiotics. This course is Certified by Plant Based Academy. On Completion of the course you will receive a Certification in Advanced Fermentation . Course takes place monthly at our brand new custom built plant based kitchen at Plant Based Academy, Second Floor, Green Door Organic  Market, Bluebell Business Park, Dublin 12. Book your Place Now 

An introduction to Raw Chocolate for obvious reasons is a very exciting and enjoyable class, as everybody loves chocolate. In this module we go into the science of chocolate, the biochemistry, is it plant medicine or neurotoxin, and how to temper chocolate. We also show you how to make sugar free raw vegan organic chocolate and cakes that are light, refined, healthy & guilt free. Workshop takes place at Plant Based Academy, Second Floor at Green Door Organic Market, Bluebell Business park, Dublin 12. This unique workshop will run once monthly on Wednesdays from 6pm to 9pm or Sundays from 12 to 3. Book your Space Now

Plant Based Academy is a world renowned international raw vegan organic plant based training institute. Plant Based Academy is a world authority on refined fine dining raw food mastery training, plant based nutritional science training, comprehensive lifestyle medicine training, advanced herbalism training and vegan organic edible skincare training. Plant Based Academy offers a number of advanced and comprehensive professional certificate courses and introduction courses around the world. Plant Based Academy offers one day certificate courses, 7 day intensive professional certificate courses and a 12-week professional certificate course. Plant Based Academy is dedicated and obsessively committed to "sustainable veganism" through plant based nutrition & lifestyle education. We believe strongly that with the proper guidance and knowledge on correct plant based nutritional science that not only is a plant based vegan diet and lifestyle an incredibly ethical decision for animals and our planet but a perfectly adequate and life long sustainable health promoting, disease preventing and reversing approach for all of us. The Professional Certificate Course: Our professional certificate course is not only the most recognised plant based course available but also the most comprehensive and at the best value plant based certificate in the world . This is also the only course which focuses on plant based nutritional science , advanced fermentation & herbalism and we also include modules on advanced cacao making and vegan skincare. All produce is 100% organic. We do not use any processed sugars such as agave, coconut sugar or nectar. This course is a life changing course and an incredible investment for you and the planet. This course offers you a Professional Certification in Plant Based Nutrition , Lifestyle Medicine & Raw Food Mastery to a Michelin Star level. You do not need prior experience to take this course and you do not have to be [...]

Plant Based Academy is a world renowned international raw vegan organic plant based training institute. Plant Based Academy is a world authority on refined fine dining raw food mastery training, culinary medicine, plant based nutritional science training, comprehensive lifestyle medicine training, bio hacking, advanced herbalism training and vegan organic edible skincare training. Plant Based Academy offers a number of advanced and comprehensive professional certificate courses and introduction courses around the world. Plant Based Academy offers one day certificate courses, 7 day intensive professional certificate courses and a 12-week professional certificate course. Plant Based Academy is dedicated and obsessively committed to "sustainable veganism" through plant based nutrition & lifestyle education. We believe strongly that with the proper guidance and knowledge on correct plant based nutritional science that not only is a plant based vegan diet and lifestyle an incredibly ethical decision for animals and our planet but a perfectly adequate and life long sustainable health promoting, disease preventing and reversing approach for all of us. The Professional Certificate Course: Our professional certificate course is not only the most recognised plant based course available but also the most comprehensive and at the best value plant based certificate in the world . This is also the only course which focuses on plant based nutritional science , advanced fermentation & herbalism and we also include modules on advanced cacao making and vegan skincare. All produce is 100% organic. We do not use any processed sugars such as agave, coconut sugar or nectar. This course is a life changing course and an incredible investment for you and the planet. This course offers you a Professional Certification in Plant Based Nutrition , Lifestyle Medicine & Raw Food Mastery to a Michelin Star level. You do not need prior experience to take this course and you do [...]

Darren Maguire “To Exist is to Change, To change is to Mature, To mature is to go on creating one’s self endlessly – Henri Bergson   Darren Maguire M.I.G.P.S is a trauma informed lifestyle medicine coach & founder of Planetary Health International, where he currently serves as clinical and culinary director, lifestyle medicine & functional health coach, plant based nutritionist, culinary medicine and plant based nutritional science lecturer, relational psychologist and trauma specialist. Darren also runs a private practice specialising in complex trauma, relationship coaching, sexual abuse recovery & personality disorders. Darren is a plantrician and psychobiotic expert specializing in alternative holistic treatment of chronic disease and autoimmune disorders. Darren is a passionate facilitator of embodied tantra, conscious parenting & ecstatic dance. Darren has dedicated the last 20 years studying the impact of traumatic stress and its role in emotional and physical syndromes and diseases, which has influenced Darren's interest in and teachings of biohacking & lifestyle medicine. Darren has built up over two decades of experience working as a coach, nutritionist and trauma specialist and is responsible for maximizing performance, recovery, fat loss, digestion, brain, sleep and hormone optimization for CEO’s, exercise enthusiasts, recreational athletes and a wide variety of professionals. Using his vast knowledge of science and research, wealth of experience, cutting-edge brain and body biohacking techniques. Darren is a classically orientated and culinary trained chef and ran two of his own casual fine dining restaurants up until 2009. Darren was the youngest head chef in Ireland at age 19 and headed a large team of staff in the third busiest restaurant in Europe. Darren's passion for food and health lead him into plant based nutrition and culinary medicine which he teaches at Plant Based Academy which is an international raw vegan organic training university, world unique in content and approach. With almost 25 years of [...]

You love animals, right? Well, did you know that the best way to save animals is by going vegan? By cutting meat and dairy products from your diet, you'll be saving the lives of more than 100 animals a year. Animals value their lives as much as you value yours. So do your best not to eat them. Make the switch to a compassionate, healthy lifestyle today by signing up for our Raw Food Mastery course at Plant Based Academy. After 30 days of living meat- and dairy-free, you'll feel so great that you just might turn 30 days into a lifetime. Watch the videos below and sign up for one of our upcoming course if you would like to eat better, feel better, and stop supporting cruelty to chickens, pigs, cows, and other animals raised for food.       "Raw vegan food is not boring salads and uncooked vegetables, raw food is a culinary pursuit, a dedication and endeavor to transforming the highest quality of vegetables using simple techniques to extract exquisite flavors, preserving the essential nutrients and enzymes and complementing them with an array of mineral rich nuts, seeds, seaweeds, sprouts and fruits. Raw vegan food is the pursuit of perfect food, art for the eyes, a taste of naturalness, unparalleled nourishment for the body and great for the planet too" - Plant Based Academy       Making a commitment to healthy eating is a great start towards a healthier life for you, for animals and our planet. Watch the educational movie below which outlines the practises used in meat and dairy production. We believe that animals are not ours to eat, wear, experiment on, use for our entertainment or abuse in any other way. Yet many people have never considered the impact that their clothes, food, cosmetics or entertainment [...]

IBS is one of the most common health conditions, but no one really likes talking about it. April is IBS Awareness Month, and it’s time to start talking. According to IFFGD, an estimated 30 to 45 million people in the United States – 10 to 15 percent of the population – are affected by IBS.Research suggests that IBS is the second leading cause of work absenteeism second only to the common cold. The gut-brain axis (GBA) consists of bidirectional communication between the central and the enteric nervous system, linking emotional and cognitive centers of the brain with peripheral intestinal functions. Recent advances in research have described the importance of gut microbiota in influencing these interactions. This interaction between microbiota and GBA appears to be bidirectional, namely through signaling from gut-microbiota to brain and from brain to gut-microbiota by means of neural, endocrine, immune, and humoral links. In this review we summarize the available evidence supporting the existence of these interactions, as well as the possible pathophysiological mechanisms involved. Most of the data have been acquired using technical strategies consisting in germ-free animal models, probiotics, antibiotics, and infection studies. In clinical practice, evidence of microbiota-GBA interactions comes from the association of dysbiosis with central nervous disorders (i.e. autism, anxiety-depressive behaviors) and functional gastrointestinal disorders. In particular, irritable bowel syndrome can be considered an example of the disruption of these complex relationships, and a better understanding of these alterations might provide new targeted therapies.   Introduction Insights into the gut-brain crosstalk have revealed a complex communication system that not only ensures the proper maintenance of gastrointestinal homeostasis, but is likely to have multiple effects on affect, motivation, and higher cognitive functions. The complexity of these interactions is enclosed in the denomination of “gut-brain axis” (GBA). Its role is to monitor and integrate [...]

The brain, by definition, is an organ of infinite complexity and staggering dimensions. The number of neurons, the basic cell that controls all information processing, is in the range of 100 billion. These neurons are connected to nearby neurons by dendrites, multiple tiny short wires. Neurons are connected to distant brain sites by axons, long wires insulated by fatty substance called myelin. The number of dendrite and axon connections is in the range of 100 million billion! And the organization of the brain is so complex. The resilient body, through its complex systems of measuring messages from the environment, informs the brain of what's going on. It sages from the environment, informs the brain of what's going on. It does so through signals from the primary sense organs of the head and neck, and from the skin, muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the somatic body. These messages from the body will alter the brain, as the intricate interplay between brain and body creates learned movements and skills for the body to carry out. The brain and body are involved in an elegant dance, ever changing and growing, developing body skills and promoting increasingly more complex neural connections. On the flip side, stress and traumatic emotional experiences can alter the brain as well, injuring it and impairing its function. Stress and trauma do damage to the brain - damage that can be seen on an fMRI. Severe negative life experiences cause loss of neurons specifically in the memory centers of the brain. The infant who does not experience the closeness of the maternal-infant bond suffers shrinkage of a crucial area in the right front of the brain that provides regulation for the emotional brain and autonomic nervous system. The good news is that effective therapy in such individuals can not only [...]