Developed by Dr Jean Seignalet in the 1990s, the Seignalet - or hypotoxic - diet surprisingly advocates a return to the dietary habits of our ancestors. Discover the principles behind it and its alleged powerful benefits.
In the United States, berberine is one of those substances that people just can’t get enough of. Though previously little-known among Western populations, it is now becoming the new anti-ageing and anti-diabetes weapon, because by improving insulin sensitivity and facilitating the transport of glucose into cells, it appears to be as effective as conventional drugs at enhancing the body’s ability to use glucose and insulin and so lower blood sugar.
Keratin works silently and effectively to support key aspects of our appearance. But why exactly should you consider supplementing with it?
A recent study has challenged common perceptions of coffee’s effects, especially on blood pressure. What, ultimately, are the positive and negative effects of coffee on health?
Ageing is the result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors: DNA shortening, oxidative stress, glycation... Here we take a look at the ageing process, its causes, and the ways in which we can slow it down.
Lipolysis is the body’s mechanism for breaking down fats to make them absorbable and usable. There are two types: gastrointestinal lipolysis, which takes place during digestion, and adipocyte lipolysis, concerned with stored fat, which is often referred to as ‘fat-burning’. How can you use it to help achieve your slimming goals?
Though somewhat overshadowed by Chinese medicine, traditional Japanese or Kampo medicine has much to teach us. Here we explore its key principles and the plants that make up its pharmacopoeia.
Usually triggered by a virus or bacteria, gastroenteritis is inflammation of the digestive mucosa which causes diarrhoea and vomiting. Discover what to eat to feel better when you’re suffering from this complaint.
It’s been said that it cleanses and detoxifies the body, burns fat and suppresses the appetite … In short, it’s credited with many benefits, due in particular to its high content of powerful flavonoids called catechins. But can green tea really help you lose weight?
Insulin resistance is a silent condition that can cause serious complications. Discover how to identify it.
While they represent only a tiny part our nutritional needs, micronutrients are central to vital functions. What do they do and where are they found?
The Japanese art of shinrin-yoku – which translates as forest bathing or sylvotherapy – is becoming increasingly popular. In this article, we explore its benefits, exercises and potential risks.
For 60 years, Western health authorities have recommended reducing our consumption of saturated fats. But what does current scientific research have to say about their actual effects on health?
Praised for half a century and then disparaged for several years, is milk actually good for health? What are its benefits and downsides? Does it cause digestive problems? Read on for all the answers.
Many of us like to drop off listening to a podcast or some music. But is falling into a deep sleep wearing earbuds really a good idea?
Based largely on Taoism, traditional Chinese medicine dates back more than 2500 years. Let’s take a look at its key principles and characteristic remedies.
What role does hugging play in our health? Are these exchanges of affection essential to our survival? Discover how many hugs a day science recommends.
A 35-year study, published in December 2022, analysed the relationship between vitamin D levels and cognitive decline in older adults. We take a closer look at a discovery that pushes the boundaries in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.
Japanese researchers have succeeded in developing a vaccine that specifically targets senescent cells. Could we soon have an anti-ageing vaccine? Let’s take a look.
Cannabidiol (or CBD) has been enjoying a surge in popularity over the last few years. But could this ‘legal cannabis’ prove addictive?
Could this already controversial and ubiquitous sweetener be responsible for an epidemic of hereditary anxiety? The latest research sheds light on the subject.
In a recent study, researchers transferred the microbiota of non-autistic children to 18 autistic children. What were the results? What do they tell us about the gut-brain axis?
The roots of modern medicine can be traced back to the pioneering practices of our classical forebears. Let’s take a step back in time and explore the remedies and procedures used at that time.
Known for its use in cosmetic surgery, hyaluronic acid is first and foremost a major component of the body. What exactly does it do when taken as a supplement?
Desire, sex and attachment depend on chemical processes that take place within us. SuperSmart reveals the chemistry of love, at each stage of a romantic relationship.
Would you like to know how supplements are produced? SuperSmart shares with you the different stages of production of a dietary supplement.
Is it safe to take melatonin after an evening drinking alcohol? Quick update on the interactions between melatonin and alcohol.
Used for thousands of years, activated charcoal is reputed to be the most effective natural remedy for reducing gas. Discover precisely how this substance works to combat bloating and flatulence.
Intake of calories, macronutrients, micronutrients and fibre: finally, a comprehensive article on adult nutritional requirements and recommended intakes.
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) supplements have enjoyed consistent success in recent times. What’s behind this continuing popularity? And what’s the relationship between NAC and glutathione?
Flying somewhere on holiday but worried about the effects of jetlag? Discover the best anti-jetlag solutions, as well as some tips for preventing motion sickness, constipation and other travel-related problems.
Which foods will we all be eating in 2050 and beyond? Discover how the culinary landscape is likely to change in the decades to come.
Organic farming is better for the environment, but is it also better for your health? Exposure to pesticides, nutritional quality, etc.: we give you the lowdown on eating organic.
“Don’t go out dressed like that – you’ll catch cold”. We’ve all heard – and even repeated - this advice, but is cold weather really responsible for winter ailments?
Bones are the body’s framework – they protect our internal organs and control our mobility. Discover the best natural substances for maintaining healthy bones.
Want to know why pharmacists, naturopaths and nutritionists recommend SuperSmart? Discover, in their own words, what they think and which products are their favourites.
Less well-known than Chinese or Ayurvedic medicine, traditional Russian medicine is nonetheless just as popular with Russian citizens. Discover the well-kept secrets of its natural remedies.
Though they are both products of the beehive, honey and royal jelly are very different, both in how they are used and in their composition. How do bees produce them? What are their benefits for health?
Research has shown that the human body has an endocannabinoid system which reacts with the active principles in hemp, one of which is CBD. What do we actually know about this system?
“A glass of wine keeps the doctor away”. Do you agree with this old adage? Our true/false article tells you all you need to know about the health benefits or otherwise of alcohol.
It’s a fact: mental health conditions have risen sharply this year, a clear consequence of pandemic-related anxiety and isolation. Here we take a brief overview of the situation and look at some potential solutions.
As a result of an initiative in April 2021, SuperSmart has enabled thousands of trees to be planted in Madagascar. Discover the positive impact of this project in which large numbers of you participated.
Pesticides, the substances used for killing ‘harmful’ organisms, continue to contaminate our food. Discover how to deal with these toxic compounds on a day-to-day basis.
Though it might be trendy among young people, for many in their thirties and forties, grey hair is definitely to be avoided. What makes hair turn grey? What natural solutions are there? Read on for the answers.
Do you suffer from hypertension but want to avoid taking long term medication? Did you know you can lower your blood pressure by changing your dietary habits? That’s what DASH is all about. Read on for analysis and sample menus.