IN CONVERSATION WITH: LUCY MOORES
Lucy Moores, a dedicated nutritionist and naturopath, brings a unique perspective and comprehensive support to help people achieve a balanced and vibrant life. She has a passion for skin health and also has an expertise in issues related to immune health, microbiome, hormones and vaginal health.
An avid enjoyer of Kréol, we caught up with her to discuss the impact of Kréol on nutrition.
- Why do you enjoy drinking Kréol?
I enjoy drinking Kréol because it is refreshing, light and sugar free. As someone who doesn't drink alcohol, this is such a wonderful alternative and it feels good knowing that I'm looking after my health with every sip. Unlike other brands this is gentle on my stomach and leaves me feeling refreshed, especially on a hot day!
- Why do you feel antioxidants are important in our diets?
Antioxidants are key in our diet to repair oxidative damage in our bodies caused by free radicals. In a world where we are constantly surrounded by environmental toxins and chemicals it is important we are giving our bodies the best chance to reduce oxidative damage. The easiest way to get abundant antioxidants is through our diet.
- As a Nutritionist & Naturopath, how do you think Kréol benefits your clients?
Kréol is a great benefit to my clients who struggle with PCOS, blood sugar imbalance, hormonal imbalance, acne and so much more! It gives my clients a healthy, tasty alternative to sugary drinks they might be used to drinking with added health benefits. Kréol doesn't spike blood glucose and contribute to blood sugar imbalances which is really important when I am developing treatment plans for my patients.
- Do low sugar non-alcoholic drinks impact fertility?
Fertility is multifaceted but we know that in the lead up to conception alcohol is not recommended. Both alcohol and excess sugar consumption can lead to oxidative damage in the body and poorer quality eggs and sperm. A recent study by Van Heertum, K., & Rossi, B. reports that long term heavy alcohol use amongst men can cause testicular atrophy, decreased testosterone and sperm count. Moderate consumption in the lead up to conception may also have an impact on sperm morphology.
Sweetened beverages on the other hand have been shown to reduce fertility in both men and women. Sugar intake has a positive correlation with obesity, inflammation, diabetes and hypertension, all of which contribute to poorer fertility outcomes.
- Does caffeine impact stress levels and gut health?
This is one of my favourite questions that I get asked all the time in clinical practice. The short answer is YES! Caffeine drives up our cortisol response and cortisol as we know is the hormone associated with stress. The more cortisol we have, the more stressed we are likely to feel. Caffeine also elevates our endocrine stress response, blood pressure and blood sugar.
Caffeine is okay in moderation and should be drunk 30 mins away from meals to avoid reducing our absorption of nutrients from the meal. Caffeine on an empty stomach will likely have you running to the bathroom or cause stomach pain/reflux. Caffeine consumption induces changes in the composition of the gut microbiota, mainly at the level of the population of Bifidobacteria, Bacteroides, and Prevotella which are important components of a healthy digestive tract.
I would definitely recommend Kréol as a caffeine free alternative to my patients.