Nurturing Health nutrition that works
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C A N A DA
January – February 2026 • Volume 16 Edition 1
The Heart of the Matter: Cultivating Your Core Well-being
Your heart is more than just a muscle; it is the tireless engine that powers every aspect of your existence. Beating approximately 100,000 times a day, it delivers oxygen and nutrients to every cell in your body. Yet, we often take this vital organ for granted until a warning light flickers. True heart health requires a holistic approach that harmonizes nutrition, movement, and mental peace. The foundation of cardiac wellness lies in what you put on your plate and how you move your body. Adopt a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods. Think of the Mediterranean model: abundant in leafy greens, berries, whole grains, and lean proteins, and light on sodium and saturated fats. Movement is the heart’s love language. You don’t need to run marathons; aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly. Brisk walking, swimming, or cycling conditions the heart muscle, lowering resting heart rate and blood pressure. Equally important is your mental well-being. Chronic stress floods the body with cortisol, which can raise blood pressure and damage arteries. Prioritize sleep and engage in mindfulness practices such as meditation or deep breathing to keep your stress markers and your heart rate low.
While diet is paramount, high-quality supplements can bridge nutritional gaps and offer targeted support for cardiovascular function: Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): This antioxidant is found in almost every cell but declines with age. Supplementing with CoQ10 helps support cellular energy production in the heart muscle and may assist in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. Garlic: Beyond the kitchen, garlic supplements (specifically Aged Garlic Extract) are powerful allies. They are shown to support arterial flexibility, help manage healthy cholestrol levels, and combat oxidative stress. Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs): Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA found in fish oil and various plantbased sources such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, hemp seeds, and walnuts, are critical. They fight systemic inflammation, and maintain healthy triglycerides. Protecting your ticker isn’t a short-term fix; it is a lifelong commitment. By combining a nutrient-dense diet, regular movement, and the right supplementation, you can ensure your heart remains strong enough to keep the beat of your life steady. References: • Virani, S. S., et al. (2021). Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics—2021 Update. Circulation, 143(8). • Ried, K., & Fakler, P. (2014). Potential of garlic (Allium sativum) in lowering high blood pressure: mechanisms of action and clinical relevance. Integrated Blood Pressure Control, 7, 71–82. • Mortensen, S. A., et al. (2014). The effect of coenzyme Q10 on morbidity and mortality in chronic heart failure: results from Q-SYMBIO: a randomized doubleblind trial. JACC: Heart Failure, 2(6), 641-649. • Innes, J. K., & Calder, P. C. (2020). Marine Omega-3 (N-3) Fatty Acids for Cardiovascular Health: An Update for 2020. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 21(4), 1362.
Products that Support Cardiovascular Health CellSparc 360 – supports cardiovascular health with a formula that combines coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), fish oil and vitamin E AIMega – provides essential fatty acids (EFAs) for the maintenance of good health GarlicAIM – provides a unique combination of three types of garlic: bear garlic leaf, garlic bulb powder (from fermented black garlic), and garlic bulb extract that are traditionally used in herbal medicine to help maintain cardiovascular health
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CellSparc 360 1576E, $39.50 M, $43.00 C
GarlicAIM 6625E, $27.75 M, $30.00 C AIMega 4036E, $32.50 M, $35.00 C
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Evidence over Hype: Rethinking P Supplements—including vitamins, minerals, herbs, probiotics and more—can help fill nutritional gaps. However, many marketing claims lack scientific support, and some may even be harmful. With social media influencers promoting untested “cure-alls” and AI chatbots dispensing questionable advice, separating fact from hype has become increasingly difficult. In the following section, we address five popular supplementation myths and provide practical, evidence-based alternatives for those seeking reliable results.
Myth 1: Multivitamins is a one-size-fits-all solution Many believe a daily multivitamin can fill every nutritional gap and boost energy. This is partly true, but not entirely accurate. Food provides macronutrients, micronutrients, fibre, and antioxidants that supplements cannot fully replicate. Whole foods remain the body’s primary source of nourishment. Different age groups, genders, and lifestyles may require additional nutritional support. Older adults often absorb fewer vitamins, with B12, vitamin D, and calcium declining first. Supplements can help when deficiencies are confirmed, supporting bone strength, nerve health, and energy. Women of childbearing age, need folic acid supplementation to prevent neural tube defects in babies. Similarly, individuals on strict diets, those working long hours, with limited sun exposure, or frequent travelers may experience mild deficiencies. Vegetarians, in particular, may benefit from vitamin B12, since it is found mainly in animal products.
Better Choice:
Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lentils, whole grains, and healthy fats provides far more benefits than a pill. Maintaining a healthy weight and limiting saturated fat, trans fat, sodium, and sugar support long-term health. Consider AIM Garden Trio—BarleyLife, Just Carrots, and Redibeets— three whole-food powders designed to help fill nutritional gaps with age.
Better Choice:
Garden Trio 5565E, $128.75 M, $139.25 C
Myth 2: More is Always Better
Marketing often misrepresents deficiency studies or confuses daily nutritional needs with pharmacological dosing. Higher doses do not always yield better results and can sometimes backfire. Fat-soluble vitamins and minerals can accumulate, posing risks. 2
For example, high dose vitamin D (50,000 IU monthly or seasonal injections) was once promoted for bone health. The rationale seemed straightforward: vitamin D enhances calcium absorption, so more vitamin D should equate to stronger bones. Yet a 2023 systematic review found such regimens failed to reduce fractures or falls and may even increase fall risk by impairing neuromuscular control. Other examples include excess vitamin A damaging the liver, too much B6 harming nerves, and very high omega-3 doses triggering irregular heartbeat. Large single doses of calcium tablets are poorly absorbed and may contribute to kidney or gallbladder stones. Support vitamin D through moderate sunlight exposure or daily intake from fortified foods (e.g., oat milk). When supplementation is needed, use lower doses spread throughout the day. Bone health is best maintained through weightbearing exercise and balanced mineral intake. Consider CalciAIM, as powdered CalciAIM calcium is more readily absorbed. 5227E, $41.50 M, $45.00 C
Myth 3: Fish Oil Capsules Offer Universal Cardio protection
Omega-3 fatty acids have long been linked to cardiovascular benefits. However, the supplement industry’s leap from “fatty fish twice weekly” to “triple strength capsules daily” ignores key nuances.
www.theaimcompanies.com
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g Popular Supplement Myths A 2025 review of high dose eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) trials found prescription grade marine oils can reduce major cardiovascular events in high-risk populations. At the same time, they also raise the risk of atrial fibrillation and bleeding. This duality challenges the idea of fish oil as a universal safeguard. EPA alters membrane fluidity and platelet aggregation—beneficial for atherosclerosis but potentially destabilizing for heart rhythm and coagulation.
Better Choice:
Use fish oil only for specific health needs, not as a cure-all. Vegetarian sources of omega-3s, such as chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts, are equally effective for supporting cardiovascular health and safer, with lower risks of contamination and rancidity. Prioritize these plant-based options along with lifestyle strategies AIMega such as blood pressure control, 4036E, $32.50 M, $35.00 C quality sleep, and stress management. AIMega, which blends omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids from organic seed oils, is a convenient supplement for heart health.
Myth 4: Collagen Supplements Dramatically Improve Skin Appearance
Social media platforms often promote collagen powders as quick fixes for youthful skin. Influencer-driven content frequently relies on manipulated imagery, reinforcing unrealistic expectations. While collagen peptides can stimulate fibroblast activity, claims about rapid or dramatic results are often exaggerated. A double-blind trial showed modest improvements in skin elasticity and hydration after 8 to 12 weeks of supplementation, with effects plateauing thereafter. These changes were clinically measurable but cosmetically subtle. In vitro studies show promising cellular responses, but systemic metabolism involves enzymatic degradation before absorption. Diets rich in vitamin C, protein, and antioxidants may provide comparable benefits without costly supplements.
Better Choice:
View oral collagen as a supportive element rather than a standalone solution. Pair it with sun protection, plant-based nutrition, and adequate hydration to maintain skin integrity. Consider BioVivify, which contains BioVivify astaxanthin—a potent antioxidant 6689E $35.75 M, $38.50 C that protects fibroblasts from oxidative damage and supports natural collagen production.
Myth 5: Fermented Foods Provide All the Probiotics You Need
Fermented foods such as yogurt, certain cheeses, sauerkraut, kefir, kombucha, and even chocolate do contain beneficial bacteria. However, they may lack the diversity or concentration needed to address specific health concerns. The strains may be unsuitable for the human gut or fail to survive digestion. For instance, some yogurts are excellent sources of probiotics, but many are not. Pasteurization reduces probiotic content, and lactose intolerance can limit access. Fermented foods also lose potency over time, and pasteurized products like canned sauerkraut contain no live probiotics. It is also important to note that fermented foods do not always contain live microbes in sufficient quantities, especially near the end of their shelf life. If foods are pasteurized after fermentation, such as canned sauerkraut, the probiotics are destroyed.
Better Choice:
Choose probiotic strains tailored to specific health goals, with clear information on CFU counts and strain lineage. Each strain has a distinct, scientifically proven function, and supplements must ensure bacteria reach the intestines alive and active. Consider Florafood, which contains FloraFood three strains shown to survive 6556E, $36.50 M, $39.00 C stomach acid and adhere to the small intestine for effective gut health. References: • https://med.stanford.edu/news/insights/2025/12/supplements-five-myths-worthbusting.html • https://biologyinsights.com/50-000-iu-vitamin-d-uses-dosage-and-side-effects/ • Myung, SK., Cho, H. Effects of intermittent or single high-dose vitamin D supplementation on risk of falls and fractures: a systematic review and metaanalysis. Osteoporos Int 34, 1355–1367 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00198023-06761-3 • https://heart.bmj.com/content/heartjnl/early/2025/05/10/heartjnl-2025-325765. full.pdf • Kim, D.-U., Chung, H.-C., Choi, J., Sakai, Y., & Lee, B.-Y. (2018). Oral Intake of LowMolecular-Weight Collagen Peptide Improves Hydration, Elasticity, and Wrinkling in Human Skin: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. Nutrients, 10(7), 826. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10070826 • Lee M., Kim E., Ahn H., Son S. and Lee H. Oral intake of collagen peptide NS improves hydration, elasticity, desquamation, and wrinkling in human skin: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study. Food Funct., 2023, 14, 3196. https://doi.org/10.1039/D2FO02958H • https://www.nutritionletter.tufts.edu/general-nutrition/debunking-6-probioticmyths/
Nurturing Health • January - February 2026
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Uniquely Canadian— Product and Business Forum Three Canadian-specific Products with One Goal—
Promote Digestive Health FIT ’N FIBER
HERBAL FIBERBLEND
HERBAL RELEASE
Uses
Daily fibre supplement • Helps to temporarily increase satiety • Contains prebiotic fibre source that feeds the probiotics (good bacteria) in the gut
Combination of fibre and cleansing supplement • Provides gentle relief of constipation and/or irregularity • Helps to lower LDL cholesterol levels when used in conjunction with dietary modifications
Cleansing supplement • Promotes bowel movements • Helps to cleanse the intestinal tract
Suitable for
Adults, Seniors
Adults, Seniors
Adults, Seniors
Direction of use
Mix 2 tablespoons (18.78 g) with 240 ml of water once daily
Start with 1 teaspoon (2.3 g) twice daily, gradually increasing over 2 weeks to 1 tablespoon (7 g) twice daily, mixing each serving in 155–310 ml of water.
Take 4 capsules once daily at bedtime, as needed
Active ingredients
• Fibres: Acacia, Apple, Oat, Psyllium husk, Konjac, Flax seed • Fibre-rich botanicals: Peach, Bitter Melon, Dandelion, Artichoke, Ginger, Stevia
• Fibre: Psyllium • Cleansing herbs: Alfalfa, Horsetail, Dog rose, Butternut squash, Irish moss, Passionflower, Marshmallow, Cayenne pepper, English violet, Mullein, Slippery elm, Witch hazel
• Cleansing herbs: Cascara sagrada, Barberry, Boldo, Buckthorn, Burdock, Chickweed, Dandelion, Echinacea, Parsley, Sarsaparilla
Benefits
• Promotes regular bowel movements • Fibre prolongs satiety which may help with weight management • Supports healthy blood sugar levels • Helps maintain cardiovascular health
• Helps promote regular bowel movements • Detoxifies—removes toxins from the body • Reduces transit time—provides a more thorough evacuation of waste • Water-soluble fibre helps maintain healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels
• Promotes bowel movements by direct action on the intestine • Great for detoxification • Helps maintain immune health
If you have questions regarding any Canadian products and business issues, email to aimcanada@aimintl.com or call 1-888-343-9977.
Holiday Closure
AIM Canada administrative office and warehouse will be closed on Monday, February 16 for Family Day. 4
For nutrition that works contact:
www.theaimcompanies.com
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