A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Z

 

A

Acetyl-l-carnitine
Acetyl-l-carnitine is a form of the L-carnitine. L-carnitine is a type of nutrient called an amino acid which is a building block of protein. It is a vital component in the production of energy within the body. Acetyl-l-carnitine is a superior form of l-carnitine as acetyl is a natural compound which helps with the utilization of l-carnitine in the body.

Acidophilus
Acidophilus is important bacteria found naturally in the small intestine. It is essential in the digestive system as it helps promote immunity and proper nutrition. Sufferers of IBS, diarrhoea and bowel problems in general may have depleted acidophilus levels in their gut and may benefit from using an acidophilus supplement.

Allergen
These are substances that causes an allergic reaction.  Dust, pollen and pet dander are all common allergens, but it is possible to be allergic to anything from chlorine to perfume. Food allergies are not as common as food sensitivity, but some foods such as peanuts (really a legume), nuts, seafood and shellfish are the cause of serious allergies in many people.

Allergy (atopy)
It is a condition in which the body has an exaggerated response to a substance (e.g. food or drug).  Allergic reactions occur to environmental substances known as allergens; these reactions are acquired, predictable and rapid. Strictly, allergy is one of four forms of hypersensitivity and is called type I (or immediate) hypersensitivity. It is characterized by excessive activation of certain white blood cells called mast cells and basophils by a type of antibody, known as IgE, resulting in an extreme inflammatory response. Common allergic reactions include eczema, hives, hay fever, asthma, food allergies, and reactions to the venom of stinging insects such as wasps and bees.

Alpha Lipoic Acid
A potent antioxidant known for anti-aging effects and used to help with blood sugar control and prevent nerve damage in diabetics.

Amino Acid
It is an organic compound that is a basic structural unit of peptides and proteins.

Antioxidant
This is a substance that inhibits oxidation and can guard the body from the damaging effects of free radicals.
View our range of antioxidant supplements and vitamins

Aromachology
Aromachology, as with Aromatherapy, promotes the positive effects of fragrance on mood and emotion.  However, unlike aromatherapy (which is the therapeutic use of plant essential oils to improve physical health as well as psychological health), aromachology is the scientific study of the effects of fragrance on human psychology and behavior.

Astaxanthin
It is a carotenoid pigment supplement and antioxidant.

Asthma
Asthma is a condition involving the respiratory system in which the airway occasionally constricts, becomes inflamed, and is lined with excessive amounts of mucus, often in response to one or more triggers.  These episodes may be triggered by such things as exposure to an environmental stimulant (or allergen) such as cold air, warm air, perfume, moist air, exercise or exertion, or emotional stress. In children, the most common triggers are viral illnesses.  This airway narrowing causes symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. The airway constriction responds to bronchodilators.  The symptoms of asthma, which can range from mild to life threatening, can usually be controlled with a combination of drugs and environmental changes.

Autoimmune
A process by which a person's immune system attacks the body's own tissues. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease.

 

B

Beneficial Bacteria
Most people think of bacteria as micro-organisms responsible for a variety of diseases, but more and more people are waking up to the fact that although bacteria can be harmful, there is also such a thing as 'beneficial bacteria' (sometimes referred to as probiotics). This sort of good bacteria is vital for ensuring proper functioning of the digestive system as well as a strong immune system. Bifidobacteria, Acidophilus and Lactobacilli are all examples of beneficial bacteria.

Bromelain
It is derived from the pineapple, bromelain contains compounds which can help digestion and reduce inflammation within the body.

Beta-sitosterol
It is one of the main subcomponents of a group of plant sterols known as Phytosterols.

Bioavailability
These are rate and extent to which a drug is absorbed or is otherwise available to the treatment site in the body.

Bioflavonoid
It is a plant derivative with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

BMI - Body Mass Index
The number, derived by using height and weight measurements, that gives a general indication if weight falls within a healthy range. Calculate your Body Mass index

BPH / Benign Prostate Hypertrophy
Enlargement of the prostate gland, which may interfere the flow of urine.

Bronchitis
Infection of the airways (bronchi) & Inflammation (swelling and reddening), leading to the lungs.

C

Carotenoid
It is red to yellow pigments responsible for the characteristic color of many plant organs or fruits, such as tomatoes, carrots, etc. They have antioxidant properties.

Chondroitin
It decreases the activity of enzymes which break down cartilage in a joint. Stimulates the secretion of joint fluid & increases viscosity, anti inflammatory in nature. Goldshield have a range of Glucosamine and Chondroitin

CMO
This is a compound of an unsaturated fatty acid commonly found in fish oils, whale oils, dairy butter etc. Cod liver oil is a good source of fish oils and Omega 3.

Co Q-10
It is an enzyme which is a constituent of every cell in the body. It is used in the production of energy.

Colostrum
The first milk secreted at the time of parturition, differing from the milk secreted later by containing more lactalbumin and lactoprotein, and also being rich in antibodies that confer passive immunity to the newborn. It is also called foremilk. It provides essential nutrients and infection-fighting antibodies.

Calcium
A crucial element introduced to the body through the diet, calcium is essential for a variety of bodily functions, such as neurotransmission, muscle contraction and proper heart function. Calcium Supplements

Cartilage
Cartilage is a spongy material that acts as the hinge in your joints. It plays a crucial part in overall joint health by protecting the ends of the bone that make the joint.

Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a fatty, waxy substance present in all animal tissues. It is produced in the liver. It is a component of bile, carried in the blood by lipoproteins.

Chromium
This is a trace element mineral essential for health. It is found in the diet in foods such as liver and whole-grains and is essential for controlling the way your body manages blood sugar levels.

CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid)
Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is a form of linoleic acid (LA) - an omega-6 fatty acid important to human health. It helps with weight loss by regulating fat and protein metabolism.

D

DHA
This is a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid - a vital component of the phospholipids of human cellular membranes, especially those in the brain and retina. It is necessary for optimal development.

Dietary Supplement
A prescribed dietary supplement is intended to supply nutrients (vitamins, minerals, fatty acids or amino acids) that are missing or not consumed in sufficient quantity in a person's diet.

Digestive enzymes
These are enzymes in the alimentary tract with a purpose of breaking down components of food which the person eats. They are secreted by different glands: the salivary glands, the glands in the stomach, the pancreas, and the glands in the small intestines.

Degenerative Disease
A degenerative disease is a disease that gets progressively worse over time due to age (e.g. arthritis) or lifestyle choice (e.g. the effects of excessive drinking or smoking).

E

Emollient
It is an agent that softens and soothes the skin when applied locally.

Echinacea Purpurea
This popular herb has active ingredients to help fight colds, flu and other infections. The various types of the plant used generally stimulate immune system cells that are key weapons against infection, combat bacteria, viruses and other disease-causing microbes. The herb also helps boost the cells' production of a virus-fighting substance called interferon.

EMU Oil
It is an oil rendered from the thick layer of subcutaneous fat on the back of the Emu. Emu oil is approximately 70% unsaturated fatty acids. it is a good emollient and water-binding agent and has anti-inflammatory properties.

EPA
EPA is a polyunsaturated fatty acid. It is found in fish oils of cod liver, herring, mackerel, salmon, menhaden and sardine. It is also found in human breast milk. It is anti-artherogenic and antithrombogenic.

Essential Fatty Acids - or EFAs
These are fatty acids that are required in the human diet. This means they cannot be synthesized by the body from other fatty acids and must be obtained from food. There are two closely related families of EFAs: omega-3 and omega 6. They were originally designated as Vitamin F when they were discovered.

F

Fibromyalgia
A syndrome characterized by chronic pain in the muscles and soft tissues surrounding joints, fatigue, and tenderness at specific sites in the body. It is also called fibromyalgia syndrome, fibromyositis and fibrositis.

Free Radicals
It is an atom or group of atoms that has at least one unpaired electron and is therefore unstable and highly reactive. In animal tissues, free radicals can damage cells and are believed to accelerate the progression of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and age-related diseases.

Flavonoids
Also known as 'bioflavonoid', flavonoids are found naturally in plants. They are shown to have potent anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The latter means they can help protect the body from free radical damage.

Folic Acid
It is a water-soluble form of a B-vitamin. As it is involved in cell growth and production, it is of particular benefit for children and pregnant women.

G

Grape Seed Extract
Grape Seeds are rich sources of 'oligomeric proanthocyanidins' (OPC's). These are special kinds of plant bioflavonoid with powerful antioxidant properties. Grape Seed Extract makes use of these natural powers to help protect against degenerative diseases.

Green Lipped Mussel
Green-Lipped Mussel is a New Zealand shellfish from which an extract has been shown to be useful in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

Gut Bacteria
Human adults carry roughly 1kg of bacteria in their gut - some of it is bad or unfriendly, but some of it is also good or 'friendly'. Getting the correct balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut helps stimulate gut immunity and prevent digestive problems. Good bacteria (or 'probiotics') include 'lactobacilli' and 'Bifidobacteria'.

Glucosamine
Glucosamine is an amino polysaccharide. Glucosamine is concentrated in joint cartilage where it is incorporated in longer chains known as glycosaminoglycans and finally into very large structures known as proteoglycans. The proteoglycans function to attract water into the joint space for lubrication of the cartilage during movement. It reverses osteoarthritis,p rotects joints and tendons from injury and decreases inflammation.

Glycemic Index
A numerical index given to a carbohydrate-rich food that is based on the average increase in blood glucose levels occurring after the food is eaten. The higher the score, the faster is the increase in level of blood sugar.

H

Haemoglobin
It is the red pigment in blood cells. It absorbs oxygen breathed in through the lungs and then carries it around to the parts of the body where it is needed.

Hypertension
This is when blood is forced through the arteries at increased pressure. In cases of 'primary' hypertension, the cause is unknown, whereas 'secondary' hypertesnion can be caused by kidney-related problems, alcohol abuse and hormone imbalances. Hypertension can eventually lead to stroke, heart attack, kidney failure or heart failure.

HDL
A complex compound made of lipids and proteins in approximately equal amounts that functions as a transporter of cholesterol in the blood. High levels are associated with a decreased risk of atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease.

Homocysteine
An amino acid used normally by the body in cellular metabolism and the manufacture of proteins. Elevated concentrations in the blood are thought to increase the risk for heart disease by damaging the lining of blood vessels and enhancing blood clotting.

I

Immune system
This is an integrated body system of organs, tissues, cells, and cell products such as antibodies that differentiates self from nonself (foreign) and neutralizes potentially pathogenic organisms or substances.
This is a body's system of defenses that protects the body against diseases & invasion by foreign substances, such as bacteria and viruses, and from cancer cells.

Insomnia
Insomnia is the general inability to get to sleep or at least sleep for any prolonged period of time. It can be brought on by stress, fear, drug use, anxiety, caffeine and medication.

Iodine
As crucial as this mineral is, the body only needs a small amount of it to make use of it. Iodine's only known function in the body is an essential one: it helps the thyroid gland produce 'thyroxine' (a hormone needed to regulate cell metabolism).

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a digestive disorder characterised by a group of symptoms such as: constipation, flatulence, abdominal pain and diarrhoea.

Isoflavones
Isoflavones are 'phyto-estrogens' commonly found in soybeans. They are mainly used to strengthen bones and control estrogen levels and they are even thought to have anti-inflammatory properties. Their oestrogen controlling abilities make Soy Isoflavones a supplement of choice amongst sufferers of PMS and symptoms of the menopause.

Inflammation
A response of body tissues to injury or irritation; characterized by pain swelling, redness and heat.

Insomnia
This is inability to sleep or to remain asleep throughout the night.

Isotonic
It is a state of having the same salt concentration as blood. An isotonic cellular environment occurs when an equal solute concentration exists inside and outside the cell.

J

Joint/Joints
This is where two bones meet. "Tendons" and "ligaments" help hold the joint in place while "synovial fluid" surrounds the joint, thereby acting as a natural lubricant. "Cartilage" is a spongy material that acts as the hinge in your joints. It plays a crucial part in overall joint health by protecting the ends of the bone that make the joint. "Arthritis" sufferers experience pain due to the breakdown of cartilage caused by disease, age and/or wear and tear.

K

Kelp
Kelp is a very large type of seaweed that grows in large 'forests'. It contains high amounts trace minerals and elements - particularly iodine. The thyroid gland depends on iodine to help it control the body's metabolism.

L

Lactoferrin
An iron-binding protein found in milk, saliva, tears, and intestinal and respiratory secretions that interfere with the iron metabolism of bacteria; in conjunction with antibodies, it plays an important role in resistance to certain infectious diseases.

LDL
It is a Low density lipoprotein, known as "bad" cholesterol.
It is a complex compound with more amounts of lipid than protein that transports cholesterol in the blood. High levels are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease.

Lean body mass
It refers to the sum of the weight of your bones, muscles and organs basically the sum of everything other than fat in your body.

Lutein
A yellow carotenoid pigment, C40H56O2, found widely in nature, found in corpus luteum, in body fats, egg yolk, and green plants; xanthophyll. It is an excellent antioxidant.

Lycopene
It is a red carotenoid pigment, C40H56, found chiefly in blood, the reproductive organs, tomatoes, and palm oils. It is a very potent anti-oxidant& detoxifier. See our range of Lycopene

M

Menopause
In short, the menopause is a permanent ending to the menstrual cycle. Menopause typically occurs in a woman's late forties to early fifties. It is a normal part of aging, marking the end of a woman's reproductive years. Often the drop in oestrogen levels associated with the menopause has various unpleasant and uncomfortable symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats and mood swings.

Minerals
Organic substances needed in the diet in small amounts to help regulate various bodily functions. Unfortunately, modern farming methods, increased popularity in processed foods and hectic lifestyles, prevent most modern day humans from getting the correct amount of these vital nutrients.

Macular degeneration
It is a condition in which the cells of the macula lutea (central portion of retina) degenerates, resulting in blurred vision and ultimately blindness.

Metastasis
Spread of cancer cells from the original site to other parts of the body.

MSM
MSM is about one-third sulfur which acts as a dietary source of sulfur. It plays an important structural role in amino acid and protein metabolism. Sulfur is required for proper synthesis and maintenance of connective tissues such as skin, hair, nails, tendons and cartilage. It helps in relieving arthritic pain and stiffness and also helps in improving immunity.

N

Neurotransmitters
Specialized chemical messengers found throughout the nervous system (especially the brain). They carry messages from one cell to another, enabling the body to function properly.

Nano Technology
This is science and technology of building devices, such as electronic circuits, from single atoms and molecules. It is dealing with matter on a molecular size scale of nanometers (1 billionth of a meter).

Nutraceutical
This refers to any substance that may be considered a food or part of a food and provides medical or health benefits, including the prevention and treatment of disease.

O

Osteoarthritis
Unlike "Rheumatoid Arthritis", osteoarthritis is the result of continuous wear and tear over a long period of time. As such, osteoarthritis generally affects the elderly and long-term sports enthusiasts (where injury can play a part).

Obesity
A condition in which a person is more than 20 percent more then ideal weight due to excess fat accumulation in the body.

Oxidation
This is a process of combining oxygen with another substance or a chemical change in which an atom loses electrons.

P

Pathogens
These are agent that causes disease, especially a living micro-organism such as a bacterium or fungus.

Pectin
A substance in fruit that cements the plant cells together & is an emulsifier and thickening agent.

Phyto-esterogens
This is a group of substances, including isoflavones that are derived from plants and have biological effects on animals similar to that of estrogen.
These are plant compounds that have weak estrogen-like effects.

Phytosterols
Present in cell membranes of plants which act as cholesterol by providing support to the cell membrane.

Pituitary
A bi-lobed endocrine gland located at the base of the brain that secretes several critical hormones for the regulation of other endocrine glands, including the secretion of TSH for stimulation of the thyroid.

PMS
PMS describes the host of physical and emotional symptoms that women can experience in the latter stages of the menstrual cycle (i.e. just before and during the period.) It is a very common problem with 1 in 3 women reporting mild to severe forms of it. Symptoms include: tender or swollen breasts, headaches, mood swings, weight gain and tiredness.

Policosanol
It is the generic term used for a mixture of long-chain primary aliphatic saturated alcohols. These alcohols are derived from the waxes of plants such as sugar cane & yams & also in beeswax.

Probiotic
A group of live microbial organisms which favors the beneficial bacteria in the body while inhibiting harmful microbes.

Prostate
A Chestnut shaped gland within the male reproductive system that is located just below the bladder. It surrounds the beginning of the urethra, the canal that empties the bladder and produces a fluid that forms part of semen.

Q

Quercetin
This 'bioflavonoid' (found primarily in apples and onions) has natural anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties and is a powerful antioxidant. This means that it can help fight a whole host of 'degenerative diseases.'

R

Respiratory
Relating to breathing or the lungs.

Rheumatoid Arthritis
Unlike 'Osteoarthritis'(OA), Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is NOT caused by wear and tear. RA is an immune disorder whereby the immune system begins to attack perfectly healthy tissue. The resulting inflammation and joint damage tends to be most painful after long periods of inactivity. Whilst OA is mainly related to old-age, RA can occur at any age.

Retina
The retina is the nerve layer that lines the back of the eye, senses light, and creates impulses that travel through the optic nerve to the brain. There is a small area, called the macula, in the retina that contains special light-sensitive cells. The macula allows us to see fine details clearly.

S

Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is a dwarf palm tree found in the United States. The crude extracts of saw palmetto have been used to improve sperm production and to increase breast size and sexual vigor from centuries but it's most effective and only scientifically based use is to improve symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Sea Cucumber
It is an elongated cucumber like marine organism which is an excellent source chondroitin sulfate. Chondroitin is a potent anti-inflammatory so helps in relieving joint pain and stiffness.

Secale cereale
Rye (Secale cereale) is a grass grown extensively as a grain and forage crop which is closely related to barley and wheat, although it is the singular species in the genus Secale. Rye grain is used to make flour, feed, some whiskeys and most vodka.

Selenium
Selenium is an essential trace mineral. Selenium activates an antioxidant enzyme called glutathione peroxidase, which may help protect the body from cancer.

Sinusitis
It is inflammation of the lining membrane of any of the hollow spaces (sinuses) of the bone of the skull around the nose. The sinuses are directly connected to the nasal cavities so leads to mucus secretion from the nose.

Sodium
A mineral needed by the body to keep body fluids in balance. Sodium is found in table salt and in many processed foods. Too much sodium can cause the body to retain water.

Steroids
Any of numerous naturally occurring or synthetic fat-soluble organic compounds including the sterols and bile acids, adrenal and sex hormones, certain natural drugs such as digitalis compounds, and the precursors of certain vitamins.

Stevia Extract
A South American plant widely used as a sweetener in Japan, and is available in the US and Canada as a health food supplement. It is estimated to be 150-400 time sweeter than sugar with out negative effects.

Succulent
A plant that has a specialized fleshy tissue in roots, stems, or leaves for the conservation of water.

Surfactant
It is a soluble chemical compound that reduces the surface tension between two liquids.

Synergistic
This is simultaneous action of separate things that have a greater total effect than the sum of their individual effect.

Synovial fluid
It is a fluid within the joint which assists in lubrication and nutrition of the joint.

T

Thermo genesis
It is the process of heat production.

Thrombosis
It is formation or development of a blood clot in a blood vessel.

Toxic
These are harmful, destructive or deadly to living things.

Toxins
Term applied to poisons in living systems.

Trans fat / hydrogenated fat
These are vegetable oil that has been treated with hydrogen in order to make it more solid and give it a longer shelf life.

Transdermal
It means through the unbroken skin; refers to medications applied directly to the skin such as (creams or ointments) or in time-release forms (skin patches).

U

Urinary incontinence
It is a condition in which a person is unable to hold urine in the bladder and prevent its leakage.

V

Vegecap
Capsule shell made from vegetable / plant source usually carrageenan or cellulose. These are non-gelatin capsules which are suitable for vegetarians.

Vitamins
Vitamins are essential nutrients needed in the diets of all plants and animals. Humans need a regular, balanced intake of these nutrients to ensure strong and healthy growth and proper function of all organs in the body.

Vitamin E
This vitamin has important antioxidant qualities making it extremely useful for protecting against the signs of ageing. Vitamin E is also a valuable immune booster and is vital in the formation of red blood cells.

Vitamin K
Vitamin K is used in the body to control blood clotting and aid the growth and repair of bones.

W

Water retention
Medically known as 'edema' and sometimes referred to as 'dropsy', water retention refers to any swelling in the body due to accumulation of excess fluid. It is caused by a number of factors including normal shifts in body fluid, excess sodium in the diet, as well as heart and kidney disease.

Water Soluble Vitamins
Vitamin C and all of the B vitamins are water soluble. Water soluble vitamins are not easily stored in the body and are often lost through cooking. With this in mind, it is often difficult to maintain good levels of these vitamins and the body without ensuring a balanced diet or supplementation.

White Kidney Bean Extract
A potent 'carb-blocker,' white kidney bean extract can be used to prevent the body from breaking down carbohydrates into sugar and storing this sugar as fat.

X

XBS
Extended benefit System.

Z

Zinc
Zinc is a mineral that is vital to many biological functions such as immune resistance, wound healing, digestion, reproduction, physical growth, diabetes control, taste and smell. More than 300 enzymes in the human body require zinc for proper functioning. Zinc can be found in such foods as red meat, poultry and seafood or alternatively if your diet is not rich in these items Zinc supplements may also help you to get the desired amount.