We live in a world of "quick-fixes": drive-thru, text messages, and over-the-counter pain relievers. I always tend to reach for natural alternatives, and I found an excellent one with Multi-Relief. It's a 100% natural option that offers fast relief to common aches and pains. And best of all? No side effects.

What's the secret ingredient? Well, it's a combination of vitamin and herbs with the key ingredient of Magnesium, which is quickly proving its long list of beneficial qualities, including the ability to release tension, relax muscles and strengthen connective tissue. Its unique blend works for muscle, menstrual, back or tension discomfort caused by overwork, stress or exercise. Be sure to keep a box handy in your purse, backpack, gym bag or suitcase.

		MIGHTY MAGNESIUM! Low magnesium levels are found in people suffering from fibromyalgia, migraines, and      muscle cramps. Many increase calcium for these conditions which flushes magnesium out      of the cell and can worsen symptoms. Recommended Daily Allowances for Women is 320 mg and 400mg for Men. Natural      resources for magnesium: Pumpkin Seeds = 152mg, Wheat Bran Cereal = 134mg and      Tofu = 94mg per 1 oz. serving. Lack of magnesium is the underlying factor of heart disease, blocked arteries, and high      blood pressure. 80% of Diabetics have low intra-cellular magnesium. Supplements can improve insulin      activity and minimize risk & complications. Reference: http://www.bellybytes.com/articles/magnesium.shtml

VITAMIN D: NATURE'S SECRET WEAPON AGAINST DISEASE

According to WebMD and Dr. Ben Hollick of Boston University, our bodies need about 1000 IU of Vitamin D daily. The tricky part is the mode of delivery. The sun offers a natural resource, but it's difficult to gauge how much sun is too much. The science involved in this equation has to do with skin type: a fair-skinned person in a swimsuit will absorb approximately 20,000 IU of Vitamin D by the time their skin turns slightly pink. And we all know that sunburns significantly increase our risk of skin cancer. So how can we get some D without all the UV? Try a daily supplement like Rainbow Light Sunny Gummies – it's a safe, easy and effective way to get our recommended dosage - and they're yummy too!

		DID YOU KNOW? Vitamin D is essential to Calcium absorption which supports bone health. Salmon, Mackerel and Sardines provide about 400 IU's per 3 oz. serving Provides optimal protection to support immune function. A glass of fortified Milk or Orange juice only offers 100 IU's of Vitamin D. Recent studies found strong connections that Vitamin D offers protection and support to      cardiovascular health, colon and breast health. Reference: http://www.sciencebasedhealth.com/sbh/resCen/newsletter/03-03_newsletter.asp

FOLLOW YOUR GUT INSTINCT!

Your "internal gut," that is. Having a strong and healthy digestive system is essential for our overall wellness and vitality. We know all too well how sluggish and lethargic we can feel after a heavy meal or indulging in the wrong foods. Even stress can wreak havoc on our digestive tracts, causing unnecessary pain, irregularity, bloating and discomfort.

For added digestive support you can add a dose of ProbioActive to your daily regimen. This formula boasts a potent and effective combination of One Billion Probiotics (Lactobacillus), Prebiotic (Inulin & Larch) and soothing botanicals including Ginger, Fennel, Turmeric & Peppermint that replaces the healthy flora lost my the effects of stress, less-than optimal-diet, disease and anti-biotic use, urinary imbalance and other factors.

		THE PROS OF PROBIOTICS... Probiotic comes for Latin "pro" and "biota"...meaning "For Life". An estimated 100 Trillion microorganisms inhabit every normal, healthy bowel. Gut dwelling bacteria keep pathogens (harmful microorganisms) in check. They aid      digestion, nutrient absorption and strengthen immune function. Recent studies show that probiotic therapy can help treat many gastrointestinal ills,      including Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohn's Disease as well as yeast infections and urinary      tract infections in women. Reference: http://www.health.harvard.edu/fhg/updates/update0905c.shtml

Take some time this week to take an internal inventory. Consider your lifestyle and diet, and ask yourself what areas in your body might need some added support. With these terrific, natural alternatives ... your better health in within reach! For more information on the complete line of Rainbow Light products: click here.

Please share your comments and questions with me at makeithappen@kathysmith.com.