A-Z national nutrition Articles

The bromelains are a group of naturally occurring protein-digestive (proteolytic) enzymes. They are found in the stem of the pineapple. Other components of the stem, including various enzymes and calcium, are also present in commercial bromelain preparations. Benefits of bromelain include assisting in the digestion of food and supporting gut health. 

Health Benefits of Bromelain Supplements

Besides being used to assist in the digestion of protein, the enzymes in bromelain also inhibit inflammatory chemicals called prostaglandins. The anti-inflammatory effect has been studied for its effectiveness in inflammatory conditions like arthritis and sinusitis.

Where Can I Get Bromelain?

To get substantial amounts of bromelain from pineapple you must eat the fibrous stem; therefore, it is much easier to get the benefits of bromelain from a supplement. Bromelain can be purchased in capsules, specifically enteric-coated capsules which limit the use of bromelain in food digestion. These enzymes have been studied, with mixed results, for anti-inflammatory conditions. 

Bromelain is found as a component of digestive, multi-enzyme or anti-inflammatory formulas. Supplements should be standardized as an assurance of the enzyme activity of the preparation.

Cautions & Considerations of Bromelain Supplements

Do not take bromelain if you have active stomach ulcers, active bleeding, hypertension or cardiovascular disease. Bromelain should not be used with blood thinners, NSAIDs or aspirin. Discontinue bromelain 2 weeks before dental work or surgery.

Blueberries are the berries from the Vaccinium angustifolium plant, indigenous to North America and Europe. For centuries they have been enjoyed for their taste and as more scientific evidence grows, they are also enjoyed medicinally and are considered a superfruit that's available as blueberry powder. 

What is Blueberry Powder?

This powder is made from freeze-dried blueberries which are then made into a powder.

Found in most health stores, this supplement is a convenient way to enjoy the health benefits of blueberries. 

Blueberries are much more concentrated in powdered form. One tablespoon of Blueberry powder equals ½ cup of fresh blueberries. As such it's more cost-effective to buy this supplement than fresh berries. And the shelf life is much longer.

Health Benefits of Blueberry Powder Supplements

This supplement is high in antioxidants, Vitamin C, Vitamin K and fibre. Many of the health benefits are related to the purple pigment which is high in antioxidants

Its health benefits include cardiovascular health, brain health, blood sugar regulation and urinary tract infections. 

Because blueberry powder is also low on the Glycemic index and is a source of fibre, it's a great way to help balance blood sugar in cases of Diabetes, high blood glucose and insulin resistance.

One of the most popular reasons to use this supplement is it helps with brain function – specifically, with age-related memory loss and dementia. Both human and animal studies also show it helps improve memory, coordination, and learning.

How Does Blueberry Powder Work In The Body?

ORAC – Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity is a scale measuring the ability of a food or nutrient to absorb and neutralize oxidative damaging free radicals. Blueberry powder ranks high on this scale making it beneficial to cognitive and vascular health. By binding and neutralizing chemicals, toxins and oxidized fats, it can protect your heart, brain and arterial system and reduce the formation of plaques.

The antioxidants responsible for its high ORAC value are called flavonoids , specifically anthocyanins. It's these anthocyanins that give Blueberry powder its indigo-purple colour. Laboratory studies suggest that anthocyanins may help prevent degenerative diseases, including unhealthy cell growth, heart disease, stroke, and memory loss. Anthocyanins also have been shown in laboratory studies to inhibit the growth of unhealthy cell growth in the colon.

This supplement is high in Vitamin C. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant protecting your heart health. Vitamin C is also involved with tissue healing, and immune function, and supports hormone health.

Studies show Blueberry powder may even lower blood pressure. It also has a chemical compound called Stilbenes which is shown to lower negative LDL cholesterol levels. So Blueberry powder is an overall great addition to your diet for cardiovascular health.

Another great reason to take Blueberry powder is it helps prevent urinary tract infections. Similar to cranberry, Blueberry powder contains flavonoids that prevent the binding of infectious bacteria to your urinary tract, thereby inhibiting bacterial growth. Plus Blueberry powder lowers blood sugar and can feed these infection-causing organisms.

How To Use This Supplement

This supplement is easy and convenient to use. Simply add it to shakes, tea, almond milk, hot cereal, baked goods, yogurt or a glass of juice or water. Follow dosing directions on the label or as recommended by your health care practitioner. 

Those who are allergic to blueberries should not take these supplements. To ensure you purchase a high-quality product that's made with clean and potent ingredients, speak to a knowledgeable team member at your preferred natural health food store. 

Greens supplements are concentrated plant extracts, freeze-dried into a powder that dissolves easily in liquids. These powders typically combine fruits, vegetables, herbs, vitamins, minerals, and superfoods like spirulina. Essentially, greens powders serve as whole-food multivitamins, boosting your intake of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. 

As a result, they can elevate energy, support metabolism, reduce health risks, and combat visible aging. 

The Health Benefits of Fruits and Vegetables

Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is proven to boost health, lower disease risk, and slow aging. Packed with antioxidants, they also help alkalinize the body and support metabolism. However, research shows fewer than one-thirs of North Americans meet the recommended five servigs daily.

This nutritional gap reduces essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, leading to poorer cellular repair, increased inflammation, and faster aging. Consuming at least five servings daily can help prevent and even reverse these effects.

Reasons You Should Consider Taking Greens Supplements

Many people fall short of their daily fruit and vegetable servings due to cost, busy schedules, and nutrient soil depletion, which leaves produce less nutrient-dense. Greens supplements offer an easy solution. Unlike whole produce, they are highly concentrated, providing a broad spectrum of nutrients, including enzymes and phytochemicals that boost digestion and overall health. Often, a single serving delivers more than the recommended five daily servings, ensuring a potent nutrient boost beyond what most diets provide.

Fibre Content Found In Greens Supplements

Beyond simple nutrition, one of the greatest benefits that fruits and vegetables provide is their rich fiber content. While green supplements boost nutrition, they can fall short on fibre. Fortunately, many include natural fibre sources like apple fibre or rice bran. Still, it's important to complement these supplements with whole grains, nuts, and seeds to ensure you meet your daily fibre needs.

10 Key Nutrients Found In Greens Supplements

This varies depending on the brand, but there are some general ingredients that most brands will select from, and there are some that help to improve taste while improving the health benefits. Generally, any grains used in these formulas have been sprouted to increase their nutritional potency. The following is by no means an exhaustive list:

1. Alfalfa

This is a nutrient-rich plant that contains isoflavones and is rich in chlorophyll.

2. Barley Grass

This grass is the sprout of the barley grain that contains high levels of several vitamins, minerals and nutrients such as chlorophyll. It is a complete protein source as it also contains all of the essential amino acids.

3. Chlorella

Chlorella is an edible water-grown algae that is rich in vitamins and minerals and also contains extremely high levels of chlorophyll, which aids in the detoxification and oxygenation of the tissues.

4. Fibre

Apple fibre, flax, and rice bran are some examples of fibre sources that may be found in green formulas. Alternatively, some greens powders have proprietary fibres such as PGX. If your diet is not otherwise high in fibre, it is a good idea to consider a formula that will help you get the amount you need. 

5. Fruit

Apple is the most commonly found fruit in greens mixtures, although others include prunes, blueberries, cranberries, tomatoes, mangos, grapes, strawberries, and pomegranates. Each fruit has specific nutritional constituents, and most are extremely high in antioxidants. Some formulas will even add superfruits to boost their antioxidant content.

6. Herbs

An extremely wide variety of herbs can be found in different green powder formulas. Describing each is beyond the scope of this article. Please see our herb articles for more information on each herb you are interested in learning more about.

7. Probiotics / Prebiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help to colonize the gut and protect it from infection. They also aid in digestion by breaking up some of the foods that our enzymes cannot. Some prebiotics, such as fructooligosaccharides (FOS), are food for probiotics to help them initially take hold in your gut.

8. Spirulina

Spirulina is an edible cyanobacterium that is rich in vitamins and minerals and also contains extremely high levels of chlorophyll, which aids in the detoxification and oxygenation of the tissues. In addition to this, spirulina provides a source of complete protein containing all the essential amino acids.

9. Wheat Grass

Sprouted wheat grain is a rich source of vitamins and minerals.

10. Vegetables

Beets, broccoli, carrots, cabbage, spinach, kelp, and kale are some examples of the vegetables commonly found in greens powders. These vegetables provide a rich source of vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants that have a litany of health benefits.

Different Varieties of Greens Supplements

There is a wide variety of green supplements, each tailored to different needs. Some focus on fruits, others on vegetables, and many include extra herbs and nutrients. For example, some are designed to boost energy, like the popular Genuine Health Greens+. 

Dosages vary, so always check the label to choose one aligned with your lifestyle and goals.

Key Considerations When Taking Greens Supplements

When taking greens supplements, remember that fruit and vegetables provide vital fiber, so make sure your diet compensates if the powder lacks it. Check labels for fillers like soy and allergens. 

Some greens contain herbs that may interact with medications or health conditions. Consult with your doctor if you have health concerns before taking supplements containing herbs. Use extra caution during pregnancy or lactation, and avoid herb-heavy formulas.

Digestive discomfort can be frustrating and disruptive, especially when symptoms affect your ability to enjoy meals and feel at ease throughout the day. Finding ways to support your body and reduce irritation is key to maintaining comfort and long-term wellness. With the right combination of nutrition, lifestyle habits, and targeted support, it's possible to manage symptoms more effectively and improve overall digestive balance.

What is a Hiatal Hernia?

Hiatal hernias are a bulge of stomach tissue that has gone through the diaphragm and sits around the esophagus. It is asymptomatic unless the stomach valve weakens and allows stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus. They tend to occur in people over forty and becomes more common as tissues weaken due to aging. It is associated with poor eating habits, food allergies, obesity and the use of estrogen medications.

What Are Common Symptoms of Hiatal Hernias?

Symptoms of a hiatal hernia are noticeable after a meal. Heartburn and belching occur along with a reflux of stomach fluid into the throat. Lying down after a meal makes the symptoms worse. It is important to control this reflux of acid if it is recurrent because the acid can damage the lining of the esophagus, causing a raw sensation in the short term and potentially an ulcer in the long term. In addition to the dietary recommendations in this article, there are supplements that you can use to reduce the irritation this reflux can cause.

What Are The Treatment Options For A Hiatal Hernia?

Conventional Treatments

Conventional treatment of a hiatal hernia involves the symptomatic treatment of heartburn. Prolonged use of antacids can cause mineral imbalances because they contain large amounts of sodium, aluminum, calcium and magnesium. Excess sodium can worsen hypertension, and aluminum has been connected to Alzheimer’s disease. Drugs to suppress acid production are also prescribed. Long-term use of these medicines can damage the stomach lining, leading to tumour formation. Other side effects include impotence or breast enlargement. In some cases, surgery is recommended to repair the hernia.

Natural Supplements

Natural treatment of hiatal hernia includes the use of supplements to improve digestion, to reduce the irritation caused by the reflux of acid, and to enhance the health of the stomach and esophogeal lining. For more information about supplements for each of these applications, please see the therapeutic list below.

Preventative Measures & Tips

To prevent the formation of a hiatal hernia, do not eat large meals late in the day because this puts pressure on the connective tissue. Avoid foods that stay in the stomach for long periods of time, for example, saturated fats, fried foods and oils.

Eat slowly to avoid swallowing excess air. Eat foods that are high in fibre, especially raw foods and whole grains. Regular exercise will strengthen the abdominal muscles.

To keep pain and discomfort to a minimum, be sure to avoid foods and drinks that increase stomach acid. Some of these irritating products are alcohol, coffee, tea, cola, aspirin, ibuprofen, tobacco and spicy food. In addition to these, any food to which you are sensitive should also be avoided. You might need to use an elimination diet to identify food allergens. A simple mantra to remember is to eat light meals, chew thoroughly, and don’t lie down after. Some foods that can help to relieve symptoms are endive, lettuce and artichokes – bitter, leafy greens. These can be eaten raw, like in a salad, or steamed to eat with soothing boiled potatoes. The esophagus will benefit from a nice carrot and cabbage coleslaw with yogurt or kefir. Fresh papaya contains digestive enzymes which will help to accelerate the breakdown of food.

Lie on your left-hand side when you go to sleep or are resting – this will help to keep the stomach below the diaphragm and often prevents heartburn.

With these products now being available in a range of venues from health food stores, grocery stores, pharmacies, bulk food stores and online supplement retailers, it can be hard for customers to know who to entrust with all their health and wellness needs. National Nutrition, a Canadian supplement store, simplifies the equation for you. Find out how…

Shop For Supplements Online in Canada at National Nutrition

National Nutrition is a 100% Canadian-owned and operated, family-run hybrid health food store/online retailer. Headquartered in the economic heartland of Ontario, Simcoe County, we offer top-of-the-line quality, selection, service and value.

National Nutrition's Advantage As A Canadian Supplement Store

Highest Quality Vitamins and Supplements

National Nutrition offers a wide range of Natural Health Products (NPPs) that meet and often exceed industry standards. Unlike mass outlets, vitamins and supplements are our focus. Therefore, we offer online educational resources and have knowledgeable staff who can help take the guesswork out of product selection. Many of the brands we offer are clean, non-GMO, and/or organic. This way, you get everything you want in a supplement but nothing you don’t, such as fillers, artificial colouring, flavouring, sweetening agents, synthetic additives, preservatives, stabilizers, and/or pesticide residues.

National Nutrition also simplifies getting healthy with a wide range of quality consumer brands and practitioner-specific formulas that often offer therapeutic dosing.

Vast Selection: You Want it – We’ve got it

National Nutrition offers over 10,000 items covering an extensive range of categories like vitamins and minerals, enzymes, antioxidants, sports nutrition, nootropics, collagen, anti-inflammatories, detox formulas, herbals, essential oils, super green foods, heart health blends, stress support, hair, skin and nail support, plus hormone, joint, immune, and weight loss solutions, plus many more. There are options for everyone – from the most cost-effective brands that cater to those new to the vitamin and supplement scene, all the way to innovative, cutting-edge practitioner brands that supply clinical doses of key nutrients.

As if that isn’t enough, we also offer a wide selection of natural cosmetics and personal care products. Because what you put ON your body matters just as much as what you put IN it. In fact, we have some of the largest brand selections in vitamins, supplements and natural body care in the industry.

Friendly Service

While offering a wide range of products is beneficial, what’s more important is having a knowledgeable and educated staff that provides friendly service. We’ve invested in our people to make sure they not only have customer service excellence on the brain but are also extensively trained in a variety of natural health fields, so you always have access to accurate, factual and evidence-based information. National Nutrition’s staff consists of qualified and certified Registered Holistic Practitioners, Naturopathic Physicians and Registered Nutritionists, among other specialties. Therefore, you can feel confident that they are always steering you in the right direction and providing the latest in vitamin and supplement data and advice. National Nutrition also offers a vast online education platform with supplement articles, condition-specific articles, recipes and product videos conducted by industry experts. For more complex health issues, we can also refer you to a qualified practitioner on demand.

Exceptional Value

How do you define value? What are your products and services worth to you? These are complex questions, but when it comes to health and wellness, they shouldn’t even come up. At National Nutrition, our commitment first and foremost is to you – our customers. We strive to provide you with the best quality products at affordable prices. This is why we are dedicated to offering great value consistently, EVERY TIME. Whenever you visit National Nutrition in-store or online, you can rest assured that you’ll find a generous amount of deals to fit every budget, including 2 For 1 specials, BOGO deals, Bonus offers, checkout promotions and many others that help make getting healthy accessible for all.

Discover National Nutrition today and let us help you get healthy… and stay that way!

At National Nutrition, we think global and act local by offering the same variety of quality products like a mass retailer, but with a team that’s extremely patient, friendly and knowledgeable; providing that local shop touch. We also consider the environment and our global impact with how we package and ship online and curbside pick-up orders. Discover why customers love being part of the National Nutrition family and shop for many Canadian supplements with us!

The National Nutrition Advantage

Providing A Vast Selection of Canadian & International Supplements

Whether shopping at our retail location, online or by telephone, you’ll notice the same great charm you do from your local health food store; however, because of our warehouse space and ability to offer more brands, you also get a wider selection of vitamins and supplements. We specialize in natural health; therefore, we ensure the best products, quality and brands, something you don’t always get from big-box stores. With us, you truly do get the best of both worlds.

We offer a wide range of brands, including canadian supplements and more economical consumer brands for every day doses and needs, to more innovative, clinical dose brands for specific health concerns. We’re always looking for new products, technology and innovation to add to our stock in order to bring the best to our customers. Being a Canadian company, we also focus on supporting other Canadian brands. You’ll notice most of our inventory consists of local brands such as Naturopathic Labs, Naka, Genuine Health, AOR and many more. However, our selection doesn’t stop there; we also acknowledge the quality of international brands like Flora and A. Vogel. Whether you’re looking for a supplement to maintain your overall health or one to support a specific condition, at National Nutrition, we have you covered near or far.

Focused On Friendly Customer Service

We offer personable customer service no matter how you shop with us. If shopping online, our team is always available to you through chat, e-mail or phone. Our staff is very friendly and takes their time to listen; many have built a relationship with our customers and assisted them with their questions, concerns and over the phone orders every time. We put our customers at the forefront of everything we do, from our pleasant customer service experience to the deals and promotions we offer daily. Our team is here to help YOU, so even though we may be a bit larger than the vitamin shop up the street, we definitely care just the same.

Our customer service team is also made up of knowledgeable staff with a background and credentials in the natural health industry, something you generally don't get from a larger company. Many of our team members are registered nutritionists, natural healers or naturopathic doctors. Therefore, you can feel confident in asking our team questions and relying on them to help you with your supplement decisions and health needs.

Doing Our Part For The Environment

We wouldn’t be doing our part on a global level if we neglected the environment and well-being of the planet. Shopping with our online store helps decrease your environmental footprint by ordering from home. After all, the postal truck is making deliveries anyway, and now your supplements can be dropped off right at your doorstep.

We also recycle our boxes and materials when we can. Did you know most of the packaging used to ship your orders is the same material we use to receive our inventory in!? Reduce, reuse and recycle is a great motto we strive to include in our brand values. Even our warehouse doubles as our retail location; therefore, we don’t need to use extra electricity to operate another location - win-win!

Lastly, we work with companies that formulate natural beauty and cleaning products. By offering these products to our customers and by using them ourselves, we are not only helping the planet with our actions but promoting a more environmentally friendly lifestyle to others as well. Many conventional beauty products and cleaners house nasty chemicals which negatively impact our environment and water quality. By choosing more natural, cleaner products, your daily chores and personal hygiene regimen can have a better impact on the environment.

Shopping Canadian & International Supplements With Us

As you can see, it doesn’t have to be one or the other; what truly matters are the company's values. We strive to bring the best of both experiences; the charm and personableness of a small, local shop along with the prices, selection and environmental awareness a larger company can offer.

Feeling sweaty, sore, and exhausted...but in an energized way? Sounds like you had a great workout! For many of us, after a workout is when the day begins; nothing is more exhilarating than getting up and starting the day off right. However, that's not always the case. If you are an 'end-of-the-day' exerciser, you may be heading home to eat some dinner and enjoy what's left of your evening. Either way, good job for incorporating physical activity into your day. Now that you've done something great for your body and mind, you will want to keep that momentum up, keep reading to find post-workout supplement solutions.

These supplements will help you recover faster, give you more effective results in a short time span, plus they're super easy to take and won't cut into your downtime.

Top 4 Post-Workout Supplements

1. BCAA's: For A Speedy Recovery

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are really a group of 3 (of the 9 total) essential amino acids: leucine, isoleucine and valine. Together, they have a synergistic and similar effect on the muscle. What makes these amino acids so special is their ability to go straight to the muscle to help repair it; unlike other amino acids, they do not have to pass through the liver first (first pass effect). For best results, take 10g of BCAA's per day, post-workout. It will speed up your recovery and maximize your strength gains.
Click to view BCAA products.

2. L-Glutamine: For Muscle Growth

L-Glutamine is an amino acid which aids your body in recovery in several ways. Glutamine helps prevent muscle breakdown, aids in cellular repair, and increases your body's secretion of growth hormone (GH). Increasing your body's GH levels increases body fat metabolism and supports muscle growth. For best results, consume 10g of glutamine after your workout, and another 5g before bed.
Click to view L-Glutamine products.

3. Waxy Maize: For Max Gains

While Waxy Maize is commonly found in pre-workout supplements, it is also a common ingredient in post-workout supplements. Waxy maize helps your body replenish lost glycogen, which is burned during your intense workouts. In order to make gains in strength, weight, and performance, it is imperative to replenish your body's glycogen levels. Consume 30g of waxy maize immediately after your workout for best results.

4. Protein: For Everything and Anything

After pushing your body and muscles to the max, your muscles are looking to repair and to absorb. Protein provides muscles with all the essential components for recovery and growth. The optimal amount of protein is about 25g-30g, about 30 minutes after you have consumed your waxy maize, glutamine and BCAAs post workout. Timing is key when it comes to replenishing your body for maximum gain after you've hit the gym.

Diet and Lifestyle Tips for Post-Workout Support

Post-workout supplements, although they serve a purpose, can not and should not be substituted for a healthy diet, and should always be consumed in moderation. Read the ingredient list and be cautious of products with a bunch of names/words you don't recognize as English. In other words, find the cleanest product you can. Avoid artificial flavourings and colourings. Be cognizant of your own sensitivities, as well, as things like corn, dairy (whey), and soy can be inflammatory for some. Think about how and where you can utilize food as medicine to enhance your performance, as well. A protein rich meal is just as good, if not better, than a protein shake. Don't forget to include some carbohydrate to replenish glycogen. Also, be aware of the time of day. Eating a large protein-rich meal at 9 pm, right before you head to bed, may not be the best idea, and will impact digestion and ultimately sleep. Lastly, don't underestimate the importance of sleep as a means of post-workout recovery. Your body needs adequate sleep to repair itself after today's beating and replenish itself for the next day's routine.
Keep up the good work(out) and don't forget about pre-workout supplements to ramp up your exercise routine.

National Nurition has won many awards for being Canada's Best Health Food Store from the CHFA. We do this by offering a wide selection of top-of-the-line vitamins and supplements from the industry's leading brands. If you’re new to health food stores, come discover the top 10 reasons customers choose National Nutrition as their #1 choice for their health & wellness needs

Why Should I Shop At National Nutrition?

1. A Health Food Store With Quality Products

Your One-Stop Shop for QUALITY Supplements In-Store And Online

The knowledgeable staff at National Nutrition takes all the guesswork out of shopping for vitamins and supplements. Our curated selection of quality products caters to a wide range of consumers with unique needs, preferences and budgets. National Nutrition’s product selection focuses on Non-GMO and organic formulas that are free from undesirable excipients such as:

• Artificial colours and flavours
• Sweeteners
• Additives
• Bleaching agents
• Synthetic preservatives
• Emulsifiers, stabilizers, and thickeners
• Pesticide residues and added hormones

If you bought it at National Nutrition, you can feel good about what you’re putting in your body.

2. Vast Product Selection

Many local shops and apothecary's don't have the space or the budget to carry a wide selection of brands. And of the brands they do have in store, they typically only carry a few of the best-selling SKUs. At National Nutrition, we carry a large selection of verified, Natural Product Numbered, vitamins and supplements from Canadian brands. We offer everything from basic foundational supplements to health-specific formulas. In options like affordable consumer brands to high-end practitioner brands and clinical dose formulas. At National Nutrition, we’ve got all of your natural health and wellness needs covered under one roof.

3. Customer Care is Our Focus

We care about our customers and their health. It’s been our mission for the past 25 years to provide our customers with high-quality products and service. We offer added value in everything we do; our focus is on helping people get healthy and stay healthy. To give quality service, you have to stand for something, sincerity and integrity are part of the values and words we live by.

4. Friendly, Knowledgeable Staff

People are one of the main success factors of any organization. An employee who understands the products and the benefits thoroughly will be able to better assist our customers and guide them toward the best products for their health. This is why our staff is made up of qualified and certified Registered Holistic Practitioners, Naturopathic Physicians and registered Nutritionists who are committed to making a difference in people’s lives.

5. Extensive Educational Resources

We know our customers are a smart and savvy bunch that want direct, easy access to the latest in supplement news, research and new product innovations. Luckily, our online platform supplies over 500 supplement articles, 300 + health concern articles, 200 + healthy recipes, and over 700 health videos made especially for National Nutrition by leading health experts.

6. Shop With Ease Online & At Our Health Food Store

Friendly, Positive Shopping Experience

One of the things that makes shopping with us such an enjoyable health food store for our customers is our knowledgeable and friendly staff. Our staff always goes above and beyond for the customer; since we hire customer service agents that have a professional background in natural health, they can offer insight and help our customers make informed decisions about their health. We are committed to ensuring that our customers have a friendly, positive and enriching experience every time.

7. We Know Value

You can be the friendliest, most knowledgeable and well-stocked health food store in the world, but if you don’t offer competitive pricing, you’re not really looking out for your customers. At National Nutrition, we know that life is expensive. We firmly believe taking care of your health shouldn’t have to be. This is why we make it a point to offer discounts and promotions regularly like BOGO deals, bonus offers, check-out bonuses, monthly specials and everyday competitive pricing.

8. Fast Shipping From A Health Food Store You Can Trust

Free, Fast, & Reliable Shipping

We understand your health is important, and you may need your supplements promptly. This is why we’ve worked hard and pride ourselves on our FAST, FREE*, and RELIABLE shipping process.

*Shipping is free anywhere in Canada on orders over $79 and over $149 to the US. For orders under these amounts, shipping is very affordable: $7.95 in Canada and $19.95 in the US.

9. Hassle-Free Returns

While having an enriching shopping experience is desired, what happens if a supplement isn’t compatible with you or doesn't provide the benefits you were expecting? Customers are often concerned about these issues and how they will be handled by a given retailer. At National Nutrition, our priority is ensuring you are happy, which is why you can count on our 6-month hassle-free return policy. For total peace of mind, we provide you with a prepaid return shipping label whether you bought it in-store or online.

10. Same Inventory Online & In Our Health Food Store

Most vitamin stores have a larger amount of stock online than at their physical locations because of warehouse capacity and space constraints. However, for us, our warehouse IS our store; therefore, you’re able to shop our whole range of products both online and in person. If you choose to shop online, you can order conveniently by phone, email, chat, mail, or fax, and you also have the option for free curb-side pick up if you live in the Orillia/Barrie area and would like your supplements the same day.

Discover National Nutrition Today, We’re Here for You!

Prunella Vulgaris has been used for centuries on almost every continent in the world. It has numerous medicinal properties, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, anti-septic, anti-viral, astringent, carminative, diuretic, antioxidant and so much more. Prunella is also edible and can be added to and eaten in salads, soups and stews. In traditional Chinese medicine, “heal all” was associated with liver pathologies.

The Prunella flower itself is thought to resemble a throat. It has been shown to have an affinity for the throat and is effective in treating throat afflictions. It also has a long-standing reputation as a wound-healing herb.

What is Prunella Vulgaris?

Prunella Vulgaris is a low growing perennial with an underground “weed” that sends up a red coloured stem ending in blue-violet flowers. These flowering stems, much loved by bees, are what give prunella its medicinal properties. Prunella grows in sunny, dry and open grasslands.

Prunella Vulgaris Health Benefits

Prunella is used for the effective treatment of sore throat, fever, diarrhea, headache, conjunctivitis, hemorrhoids, heavy menstruation, internal bleeding, nephritis and other kidney pathologies, weaknesses of the liver and the cardiovascular system. Prunella is a strong antibacterial that has been found useful in inhibiting the growth of pseudomonas, Bacillus typhi, E. coli and Mycobacterium tuberculi among others. As an immune tonic, studies are showing promising support using Prunella to help HIV, unhealthy cell growth, and herpes.

Important Information

There are no known side effects, toxicity or contraindications with the use of prunella. It has been shown safe in large doses up to 30 g/day, although oral doses tend to be prescribed at anywhere from 6-15 g/day. Individuals on blood thinners may want to exercise extra caution when also using Prunella, as it also has anti-coagulant properties.