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  • 22 Jan 2020 12:32 PM | Deleted user

    Carl Gibson, CMA CEO

    Australia has one of the highest performing health systems in the world. But, in common with other developed countries, we are also experiencing an ageing population and increasing rates of chronic and complex health conditions. Spending on health has grown from $5,000 per person in 2006-07 to $7,100 per person in 2015-16. Half of all Australians have at least one chronic disease, and the need to place a stronger focus upon preventive health is becoming increasingly important.



    Complementary medicines and therapies are valuable ways to help manage chronic disease, prevent the exacerbation of illness, and to optimise nutrition and wellbeing

    An older and sicker population can only foreshadow higher healthcare costs in the future. That is unless there is a shift towards early prevention, encouraging healthy and active ageing, and supporting individuals in taking control over their health.


    Natural Therapies

    Natural therapies are recognised by the World Health Organization and by governments around the world as effective, appropriate and cost-effective solutions to helping people manage their healthcare. Complementary medicine practitioners emphasise nutrition, lifestyle modifications, and the importance of taking personal responsibility for health as fundamental principles for improving quality of life. Research conducted in Australia has demonstrated that the total number of client consultations is estimated at 16 million annually, contributing over AUD$1.8 billion to the economy each year.


    Rising out-of-pocket costs across the health sector; the ongoing debate

    From 1 April 2019, private health insurers were no longer permitted to provide cover for a wide range of natural therapies, including naturopathy, herbal medicine, yoga and tai chi. All of these have a strong evidence base supporting their use in good health promotion.


    An analysis carried out by PwC found that private health insurance members across all levels of hospital cover who also choose ancillary (extras) benefits for natural therapies claimed $200 per person less every year in hospital and medical costs; for members with top hospital cover it was $430 per person less claimed if they chose ancillary benefits for natural therapies.


    CMA has, strongly recommended, and continues stress to Government, that ceasing the private health rebate for natural therapies, such as herbal medicine and naturopathy, be reconsidered. This is in light of the evidence supporting the use of these natural therapies for cost-effectively contributing to good health.


    Complementary Medicines’ Role in Preventive Heath

    Individuals use complementary medicines as adjunctive therapy to conventional medicine, to help manage chronic disease, prevent the exacerbation of illness, and to optimise nutrition and wellbeing. There is robust evidence that complementary medicines are a cost-effective way to improve health outcomes.


    The 2017 McKell Institute report: Picking the low hanging fruit: Achieving a more equitable and sustainable healthcare system found that targeted, evidence-based uptake of certain complementary medicines results in notable cost savings in Australia, whilst delivering better health outcomes and greater equity. Through addressing some of the social determinants of health, which a poor diet, complementary medicines can play a role in addressing long-term health budget pressures.


    Increased uptake of vitamin D and calcium

    In Australia, between 31% and 58% of the population have vitamin D deficiency, despite the fortification of many foods with vitamin D. D deficiency has been linked to an increased prevalence of a number of chronic diseases, including osteoporosis, diabetes and heart disease. The McKell Institute estimates that up to 8,895 fractures annually could be avoided in Australia with increased uptake of vitamin D and calcium, saving the Government up to $142 million in direct health costs.


    Prenatal Vitamins

    Folate, iodine and vitamin B3 are known to prevent neural tube defects. Current Australian guidelines recommend routine supplementation of folate and iodine, with vitamin D and iron supplementation for pregnant women with identified deficiencies. Maternal malnutrition leads to adverse pregnancy outcomes and can lead to a long-term negative impact on growth and development during childhood and increases in the risk of developing chronic diseases later in life.


    CMA supports the recommendation of increasing the uptake of pregnancy vitamins by low-income mothers to help address health inequalities, estimated by the McKell Institute to cost between $26 million and $46 million per year, a small cost given the potential benefits to health equity and long-term savings from stemming the rise in prevalence of chronic diseases.


    National Preventive Health Body

    CMA supports the call to re-establish a National Preventive Health Body to evaluate evidence-based interventions at a population level, which is an important step towards placing good health at the centre of policymaking in Australia. A fundamental aim of any health system should be to prevent disease and reduce ill health so that people remain as healthy as possible for as long as possible.


    Preventive health is also an essential move towards improving the cost-effectiveness of the health care system, by enhancing Australians’ health and quality of life and reducing preventable illness. In the case of complementary medicines, a thoughtful and rigorous strategy, coordinated by the preventive health body, would further demonstrate the cost-effectiveness and health benefits of complementary medicines for contributing to improved public health. How will we do this? In three ways:

    1. Reinstate the private health rebate for natural therapies, in light of the evidence supporting the use of these natural therapies.

    2. Development of a strategy, in consultation with physician groups, to increase the uptake of vitamin D supplementation amongst at-risk groups, and the introduction of a scheme to provide free vitamins during pregnancy through medical practitioners for women that hold concession cards.

    3. Re-establish a national preventive health body to implement and evaluate population-wide prevention initiatives, improving the health and wellbeing of the community and providing long- term savings for the health budget.




  • 21 Jan 2020 10:56 AM | Deleted user

    There’s a change in the way that people are using complementary medicines and it’s being led by Millennials – female Australian Millennials to be precise.



     

    Young Australian women are changing the way complementary medicines are being used

    A major study published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine compared the way that young Generation X women (surveyed 1996; aged 18–23 years), and young Millennial women (surveyed 2014; aged 19–24 years) regarding consultations with complementary medicine (CM) practitioners. 


    CM as part of everyday health strategy

    Women in the Generation X range tended to use CMs when their health was poor according to data from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health. Whereas young Millennial women tend to use CMs as part of their everyday health strategy, to maintain and enhance health rather than as a treatment for ill health. This highlights the emphasis Millennials place on wellness. The increased use of CMs may be due to several reasons, from increased availability, more media exposure as well as research into their use and mechanism of action.

     

    And these young women are using CMs despite them not being publicly funded or subsidised in the Australian healthcare system.

     

    The study showed that the use of CM by young women was consistently linked with positive health behaviours such as lower smoking or alcohol consumption and higher levels of physical activity - trends which are seen across the Australian population.

     

    Motivations for health

    Researchers are not sure about the perceptions motivating young women’s decisions to engage in positive health behaviours and why they choose to use CM. It may be that through CM use that women are choosing other healthy lifestyle choices.

     

    Demonstrating an increased CM utilisation prevalence in young Australian women from 1996 to 2014, the study identified several predictors of CM usage across Generation X and Millennial generations. These include non-urban residence, and the presence of specific health conditions such as back pain, and frequent headaches.

     

    Clinical benefits

    The researchers suggested that the consistent use of CM by women who report having these conditions may reflect the clinical benefit they experience from their chosen treatments. Equally, being dissatisfied with  available conventional treatments for these conditions may also be driving the higher rates of CM use.

     

    Obese young women or those who reported regular smoking were less likely to use CM practices say the researchers, who go on to highlight the potential for continued increases in CM use as Millennials approach middle age and beyond.

     

    CM use in the future

    The authors state: “The potential for unprecedented proportions of Australia women accessing CM in the future is set if current young Millennial women follow CM utilization trends that increase with advancing age. These predicted future increases in CM utilization among middle-aged and older Australian women should be prepared for in urban and rural settings as well as accounted for in Australian health care access and policy planning.”

     

    Reference

    https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0965229918310549

  • 20 Jan 2020 12:00 PM | Deleted user

    By CMA CEO Carl Gibson

    The complementary medicines industry is proud to make a difference to the preventive health agenda, building a more sustainable health system for all Australians.


    As the peak industry body for the complementary medicines industry, Complementary Medicines Australia (CMA) represents stakeholders from across the value chain including; brand sponsors, manufacturers, raw material suppliers, distributors, consultants, retailers, allied health professionals and educators. I’m proud to say that we promote appropriate industry regulation and positive Government policies to ensure consumers have access to complementary medicines of the highest quality which make a difference to their lives every single day.

    It is part of our role of CMA to submit recommendations on behalf of industry to the Treasurer for inclusion in the 2019-20 Budget.

    The Australian industry is recognised as a premium brand in the complementary medicines sector, stemming from our strict manufacturing standards and Australia’s well-deserved reputation for a clean and well-regulated environment for food and medicines. 

     

    Supporting the Growth of Australian Exports  

    Growth in the Australian market expected to continue, increasing innovation-rich manufacturing and providing a significant contribution to our country’s exports. Trade with international markets is crucial for the long-term prosperity of the Australian complementary medicines industry. Our products are well recognised as world leading in the complementary medicines around the world, thanks to strict quality and safety manufacturing standards and Australia’s global reputation for quality and safe products and its trusted regulatory institutions.

    Australian products are increasingly popular in overseas markets, particularly in Asia and the Western Pacific region. Our industry has the ability to continue its positive growth trajectory, growing our high-skilled manufacturing sector, boosting Australian jobs across the industry in product manufacturing, as well as stimulating scientific evaluation and research.   

     

    Expanding middle-class consumers

    The Asia-Pacific region is the largest market for complementary medicines products in the world. Given the ageing population and growth of the middle class, demand for Australia’s high-quality complementary medicines is expected to remain very strong. By 2030, the Asia-Pacific region will have 3.2 billion middle-class consumers. Great demand is expected in the areas of health and aged care, natural preventive care and high-quality food products.

     

    Number one in China!

    Australia has now overtaken the USA as the number one importer of complementary medicines into China. The opportunities offered by the Chinese market are significant, with the health food market alone – which includes vitamins and minerals, herbal extracts and Traditional Chinese Medicine – currently valued at US$30 billion and projected to grow by 10 per cent every year until 2025.

    The Chinese Government has made health a priority, with the Healthy China 2030 vision being central to all policy-making. The demand for complementary medicines is also proliferating in China due to an increasingly health-conscious population taking a keen interest in their health and wellbeing.

     

    Made in Australia

    Consumers in Asia care about the quality of products, and the ability to use a consistent logo and branding in the form of the Australian Made logo offers a competitive advantage in international markets. Thanks to CMA, complementary medicines manufactured and tested in Australia can rightfully claim Made in Australia and use the coveted logo. It represents a very real industry advantage to manufacturing plants, central to our industry, allowing us to retain and protect our Australian identity. The potential cost of not being able to use the Made in Australia logo to our industry could have been $1.2 billion dollar export market to China, future export opportunities, and a workforce that supports a 4.9 billion dollar industry. 

    The Australian complementary medicines industry is asking that the Government ensures to continue to support manufacturers and provide a level of certainty for businesses, in the consistent application of Country of Origin and Australian Made provisions.

     

     Trade Liberalisation

    CMA strongly supports the growing number of free trade agreements to which Australia is a signatory and the ever-increasing focus on helping to address ‘behind the border’ issues. Continued trade liberalisation will present sizeable opportunities for the Australian complementary medicines industry as the sector is well positioned to compete for emerging opportunities.

    The Indian market presents an incredible export opportunity. Indian consumers look to natural health supplements as an element of their health care choices; India has a long history of such usage through Ayurveda medicine. The Indian natural products market was estimated at approximately US$4 billion in 2017 and is expected to grow at 21 per cent CAGR to US$10 billion by 2022.

    A market of over 1 billion people, India is experiencing a rise in demand for nutritional supplements amongst the upper and middle classes, resulting from a rise in lifestyle diseases and a subsequent focus on health and nutrition. Higher disposable incomes, access to information, and the strong reputation of Australian products to be high quality and ‘clean and green’ is facilitating growth.

     

    Australian health supplements, vitamins and minerals and sports foods 

    Some challenges need to be overcome before the Australian complementary medicines industry can fully benefit from the opportunities offered by the Indian market, on which we will continue to focus. India presents a significant opportunity in the future for the Australian complementary medicines sector. CMA proposes that the Australian Government progresses the Australia-India Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement, including tariff reduction and clarification around the application of GST on health products, to support Australian businesses in our sector to benefit from the future market opportunities offered by India.

    India also presents an opportunity for exporting Australian ingredients for high-end products, as there is a demand for high quality and unique ingredients such as tea tree oil, manuka honey, whey protein concentrate and more. Exporting Australian ingredients for high-end products is also a great opportunity since there is a demand for high quality and unique ingredients such as tee tree oil, manuka honey, whey protein concentrate etc.

     

    Targeted funding for AgriFutures

    AgriFutures (formerly RIRDC) identifies and nurtures research, innovation and collaborative efforts to support new and emerging opportunities for rural industries. This includes support of the emerging Australian seaweed industry, tea tree oil, and native plants such as wattle seed, Kakadu plum and native pepper. Increasing the market capacity for Australian grown raw materials for medicinal herbal ingredients, underpinned by Australia’s ‘clean and green’ branding and reputation for quality provides another opportunity. CMA proposes targeted funding for AgriFutures to work with the Australian complementary medicines industry, supporting additional research and commercialisation to capture the opportunity of locally grown ingredients fully.

     

    Support Programs for Exporters

    CMA believes that government support programs are vital to assist Australian exporters in conducting business in emerging and growth markets, and in terms of provision of advice, capacity building and expediting export opportunities. Maintaining Austrade as an active organisation is vital to Australia’s economy, as are the continued efforts by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) to support Australian firms in building secure international networks.

    Austrade and DFAT’s Australia-China Council have provided instrumental support for our industry in building engagement with Chinese stakeholders, a notable example being the strong presence of Australian brands at the CMA Australian Pavilion at the Healthplex Expo in Shanghai, one of the premier events for companies looking to enter the Chinese market or to raise the profile of their brands. Similar support for building brand awareness in the Indian market would be of great value.

     

    CMA Budget Recommendations

    • Ensure support for manufacturers and a level of certainty for businesses, in the consistent application of Country of Origin and Australian Made provisions.
    • Secure the Australia-India Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement to support Australian businesses in our sector to benefit from the future market opportunities offered by India.
    • Targeted funding for AgriFutures to collaborate with the Australian complementary medicines industry to increase locally grown ingredients.
    • Back the complementary medicines industry export program with continued investment in Austrade to support Australian exporters and enhance Australia’s global competitiveness. 

      

  • 10 Jan 2020 4:40 PM | Deleted user

    There are many ways to reduce your impact on climate change and make better use of our precious resources. One is diet. 

     

    Changing from the traditional Western diet to more sustainable eating could cut greenhouse gas emissions by a massive 70% and water use by 50% [i]

     

    Simple changes such as eating fewer animal products, using less plastic, eating more fresh produce and reducing food wastage can make a real difference to your carbon footprint.

     

    Don't waste food

    According to FoodWise, Australians throw away around 20% of the food they buy[ii]. Food waste is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Food in landfill emits greenhouse gasses, including methane. So shop smaller and more often if you can and use leftovers or freeze them for later if possible.

     

    Use less plastic

    Today, there are many non-plastic alternatives to storing food in plastic. These include using reusable shopping bags and reusable wrapping and coffee cups to avoiding takeout in plastic containers and ditching single-use plastic water bottles. 

     

    Less meat, more plants

    No doubt, cutting down on meat is one of the most significant ways to reduce greenhouse gases, mainly methane. Research shows that reducing meat intake is one of the best ways to lower your carbon footprint [iii] 

     

    Dairy products are the second largest contributor to individuals' greenhouse gas emissions after meat[iv]. Ilmi Granoff from the U.K.'s Overseas Development Institute said: "the fastest way to address climate change would be to dramatically reduce the amount of meat people eat."

     

    Fibre to feed your microbiome

    Those who consume most plant-based foods had the lowest emission of greenhouse gases[v]. These fibre-rich foods provide prebiotics to feed probiotics. Growing your own food – in a garden or community garden – also helps to reduce your carbon footprint. Foods are not transported long distances and packaging is not needed either. 

     

    Foods rich in prebiotics include onions, garlic, leeks, Jerusalem artichokes, legumes including chickpeas, lentils and kidney beans, bananas, bran, barley, oats, almonds and other nuts. These are examples of fermentable fibre. Try adding nuts and seeds to high fibre breakfast cereal with plant milk, choose wholegrain reads, add legumes to soups salads and stews. Legumes nuts tofu and mycoprotein are great sources of protein as are plant-based protein supplements.

     

    Plus, recycling rainwater, composting, gardening organically helps too. One study [i] found that the importance of fibre hugely connected with gut microbes. Eating plenty of fibre feeds probiotics which thrive and increase in number and variety. The healthier your microbiome, the thicker the mucus wall. A thicker mucus barrier lowers inflammation throughout the body and probiotics aid digestion.[ii] increasing fibre too quickly can cause digestive problems such as gas, and intestinal blockages. So increase your intake slowly and steadily.

     

    Go local and in season

    Supporting local producers may help to reduce your carbon emissions since transportation isn't needed. Plus, you may find some local delicacies unique to your area.

     

    The U.N. believes that a global shift toward plant-based food is vital if we are to combat the worst effects of climate change. Globally, animal agriculture is responsible for more greenhouse gases than all the world's transportation systems combined.

     

     References

      [i] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5094759/

    [ii] https://www.foodwise.com.au/foodwaste/food-waste-fast-facts/

    [iii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6408204/

    [iv] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5819206/

    [v] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC640820[iii]

      [i] https://www.cell.com/cell-host-microbe/fulltext/S1931-3128(17)30497-3

    [ii] https://www.cell.com/cell-host-microbe/fulltext/S1931-3128(17)30497-3

     

  • 04 Dec 2019 4:17 PM | Deleted user

    Fermented foods – foods that contain probiotics - exist around the world. But have you ever wondered about how probiotic supplements came to be? Or some of the startling advances currently being research for future probiotic supplement?


    Yoghurt is thought to have resulted from the storage of milk in animal-based containers


    The past

    • Probiotic comes from the Latin word, which means for life.
    • The ancient Roman naturalist, Pliny the Elder, prescribed fermented milk for intestinal problems.
    • Yoghurt most likely resulted from the fermentation of milk carried in animal skin bags in the Middle East.
    • The19th-century scientist Nobel Prize-winner, Ilya Ilyich Metchnikoff, studied villagers in Bulgaria in the late 1800s. Despite extreme poverty, many lived over the age of 100. He concluded that part of the reason might be the beneficial bacteria found in their daily yoghurt drink. The bacteria that isolated was named Lactobacillus bulgaricus.
    • At the time, most other microbiologists were researching disease-causing microbes rather than probiotics.
    • Research into probiotics investigating the gut microbiome – the community of microbes that inhabit the GI tract – began in earnest in the 1990s.
    • Scientists increasingly learnt more about the way dietary microbes interact with the body.
    • In 2001, the World Health Organization issued a formal definition of probiotics, kick-starting even more research.


    The present

    • New microbial strains are being identified
    • Enhanced survival through the gut is aided by encapsulating against stomach acid.
    • Strains that survive stomach acid have been isolated.
    • Prebiotics are added to supplements to feed probiotics and promote other good gut microbes.


    The future          

    • ·Genetic engineering of probiotics is creating enhanced probiotics that break down particular toxins associated with alcohol consumption and other dietary factors (e.g. dairy and bread).
    •  New probiotics are being engineered and tested to ensure they are useful in providing a wide range of specific health benefits
  • 27 Nov 2019 2:36 PM | Deleted user

    The highest accolade awarded by CMA, the Lady Cilento Award, recognises an individual who has demonstrated a lifelong contribution to natural therapies and complementary medicines in Australia. 


    And outstanding and consistent contributor

    Over many years in the industry, this award acknowledges John’s dedication, commitment and professionalism. It recognises a leader who has made an outstanding and consistent contribution to the industry and to the broader community.


    Unsung hero of the complementary medicines industry in Australia, John Baker, is awarded the Lady Cilento Award


    Industry veteran, John Baker, was presented with the distinguished Lady Cilento award by CMA CEO Carl Gibson at the Conference Gala Dinner in Sydney in October.

     

    Surprise award

    John says, “I am a member of the board and was utterly shocked at being recognised! The board kept it completely secret from me, and I was so surprised when Carl called my name!”


    A stalwart and a gentleman

    Carl Gibson adds: “John is a stalwart of the industry, a true gentleman, who has often put our industry before his own business, and sometimes his health. He is a true unsung hero.”

     

    John has been at the forefront of health food retail in Australia, having owned his store in the Blue Mountains for over 30 years.

     

    He has actively contributed to CMA and is also passionate and enthusiastic in Go Vita; Australia’s largest health food coop. John has owned the Go Vita Springwood health shop in NSW since 1989.

     

    He has been instrumental in bringing several brands into the Go Vita warehouse, including Melrose, Oil Garden and Orgran; he has always focused on the interests of smaller stores ensuring that they are not overlooked.”

     

    The CMA gala dinner in October is when John officially retired from CMA as a Director having dedicated nine years on the Board of Directors. He was the Chairman of the Finance and Audit Committee and esteemed Treasurer. Previously, he served as Vice President and President.”

     

    Overseeing the merger

    John oversaw the transition from the Nutritional Foods Association; the merger with the Council for Responsible Nutrition and the move to Canberra. John also helped develop the Industry Code of Practice and its complaints handling procedures.


    “Countless times, John has come to Canberra to clarify and ameliorate challenges at CHC and in Parliament and during his latest term of office as a Director the successful launch of CMA.

     

    Dedication and duty

    Carl Gibson says: The CMA is in a much stronger financial position today because of John’s selfless dedication and incredible sense of duty. The Association has gone from strength to strength, because of John’s tight hold on the Association’s purse strings and his absolute ability to have his finger on the pulse of the issues that matter to our consumers. And he isn’t afraid to call out people such as Ken Harvey!”

     

    Background to the Award

    The complementary medicine industry’s most prestigious award is named after a ground-breaking medical doctor, Phyllis Dorothy Cilento (1894 -1987). Lady Cilento, whose husband was knighted for his incredible advances in medicine, was a pioneering Australian medical practitioner and prominent medical journalist.

     

    Many congratulations, John!

     

     

  • 21 Nov 2019 2:30 PM | Deleted user

    Occasionally, the CMA panel judges receive an outstanding nomination that showcases the very best of our industry, or which embraces a new standard in quality, or an innovation that will transform our sector, but which falls out of the selection criteria of a particular award.


     Thursday Plantation's Laura Willems (L) and Kim Burrell (R) hold the 2019 CMA Judges Choice Award.


    The CMA Judges Choice award acknowledges those who have an outstanding nomination that deserves recognition. Enter the Judge’s Choice Award ... Awarded at the discretion of the Judging Panel, this year, the worthy winner of the CMA Judges Choice award is Thursday Plantation.

     

    Thursday Plantation has reinvigorated and grown the Essential Oil category with a new product range that encompasses an innovative digital strategy and influencer outreach, together with an active profile in key banners helping to promote the category and reinvigorate positive interest in essential oils.

     

    The power of 100% pure oils

    Thursday Plantation’s Sleep Support & Calming Lavender Oil Roll-On and the Headache Pain Relief Peppermint Oil Roll-On are the two new products launched in March 2019. Both Roll-Ons harness the power of 100% pure oils to support common health conditions offered in a ready-to-use, convenient Roll-On format. 

     

    Brand Manager, Kim Burrell said: “At Thursday Plantation, we are committed to understanding the changing habits, behaviour and attitudes of our core target audience to develop products that offer a real therapeutic benefit.

     

    Research had identified that people aged between 35–54 years were a key target group for Thursday Plantation, a group that felt increasingly time poor with the pressure of juggling family life, leisure and work. The majority, 70% of those who took part in the study, agreed that there didn’t seem to be enough hours in the day. Stress and tension could result which, in turn, could lead to a variety of associated health issues. Using these insights and their unwavering belief in the power of pure essential oils, the new Roll-Ons were launched.

     

    Marketing the products

    The creative objective for the campaign was to clearly and creatively convey the unique selling point of the Roll-Ons: these are the convenient and ready-to use form. It was also important to ensure that the end-benefit of each product was clear. Thus, the ‘Roll-It-Away’ campaign was born.

     

    The team developed the media strategy by tapping into the usage behaviour of the target group named the ‘Busy Professionals.’ “The key objective was to drive awareness of the Thursday Plantation Roll-Ons over three months in high-frequency environments at key times with messaging to match product and consumer context. 


    The digital strategy consisted of Programmatic Display – targeting audiences throughout the day across all devices. Paid and Organic Social – targeting before and after work hours across all devices. Mobile Advertising – using peak transit times across all mobile devices and Influencer Outreach – using micro-influencers to build credibility, trust and encourage trial. The media strategy was underpinned by in-depth knowledge of the target audience and how they best consume media.

     

    A robust trade marketing strategy to drive awareness amongst shoppers in key retailers supported the marketing initiative.

     

    Consumer reaction

    The team was thrilled with the response from both retailers and consumers. Kim explains: “To hear the kind of feedback such as ‘absolutely loving my Lavender roll-on’ and ‘I’ve used my lavender so much I’m completely out! makes us very proud. We achieved ranging in all key grocery, pharmacy and health food banners, which makes our products not only convenient to use but convenient to find!”

     

    Pulling together is a corporate value

    At Integria Healthcare, Innovation and New Product Development is a team achievement and one of the company’s corporate values is “Pulling Together,” and the Roll-Ons embody this. The innovation, marketing, operations, regulatory and sales teams all contributed to developing these products and achieving such a successful launch.

     

    Building for the future

    Building upon the success of the Roll-Ons and continuing to increase their success is now key.

    “At Integria, our passion is to create progressive, therapeutic skincare solutions. We are committed to bringing the highest quality natural oils to consumers and providing them in the most consumer-friendly, easy-to-use innovative forms. We are determined to see our incredible team going on to win more awards,” ends Kim Burrell.

     





  • 19 Nov 2019 4:07 PM | Deleted user


    • Research published in MJA questions the role of calcium and vitamin D supplementation for older adults in the general population.

      The findings state that supplementation alone provides little benefit to those who are not overtly deficient in either nutrient. The authors concede, however, that both have an important role to play in supporting specific at-risk groups and certain health conditions.

      Fast facts

    • A food first approach – including calcium-containing foods, weight-bearing exercise and safe sun – is essential for healthy bones. Those who cannot consume enough or whose lifestyle is restrictive, a calcium supplement may be helpful. The advice of a GP is recommended.
    • A calcium supplement of around 600mg is considered safe and effective.,
    • Calcium intake significantly above the recommended level is unlikely to achieve additional benefit for bone health.
    • The quoted study says: “Calcium supplements in healthy individuals are not needed, nor are they required in most people receiving treatment for osteoporosis.” However, the latter is inconclusive.
    • People need fewer calories as they get older so obtaining all the nutrients – consuming all of the wide variety of foods needed for optimal health –  can be difficult.
    • Older people often have several conditions for which they are being treated for and the treatments may well affect calcium status.
    • When taken at the recommended dose, help supports healthy bone and muscle and may help prevent osteoporosis.
    • There are specific conditions for which these supplements are useful, such as osteomalacia (a condition similar to rickets that causes soft, weak bones).
    • People with kidney disease and other conditions should only take calcium supplements after recommendation by their GP.
    • The door is not closed to calcium and vitamin D supplements just yet.


    Background

    Without doubt, a healthy mixed diet, including calcium-rich foods such as dairy and non-dairy equivalents, leafy greens and canned fish, together with regular weight-bearing exercise and safe sun exposure are all essential in supporting optimal bone health.

     

    People with a family history of osteoporosis, or who are interested in understanding more about their bone health, should speak to their health professional to determine a health care plan personalised to their specific needs.

     

    More about calcium and vitamin D

    The mineral calcium is essential for building and maintaining healthy bones, as well as organ and muscle function and more.
     

    Vitamin D is also vital for building and maintaining healthy bones; it aids calcium absorption. It is made when the skin is exposed to sunlight (lack of safe sun exposure is the major cause of D deficiency among most people who are deficient, such as the elderly and housebound). It is also found naturally in small amounts in fatty fish including tuna, mackerel, and salmon, as well as beef liver, cheese and egg yolks.

     

    Calcium-rich and calcium added (‘calcium-fortified’) foods as well as dairy and non-dairy equivalents, canned salmon and sardines, broccoli, mustard cabbage, bok choy, and silverbeet are calcium-rich. Regular weight-bearing exercise is also important for healthy bones.

     

    Calcium intake in the population

    According to HealthDirect, nearly half of Australians don’t get the recommended dietary intake of calcium putting people, and the elderly housebound at risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Diet may become more restricted with age and the ability to absorb nutrients also declines with advancing age. Plus, the use of multiple medications may interfere with healthy absorption. A calcium supplement may be prescribed to bridge the calcium gap.

     

    Heart disease and kidney stones

    The study acknowledges that calcium supplements may be linked with heart disease and kidney stones. Generally, results are taken from combined data from smaller studies where doses of calcium supplements were, on average, well above 600mg (1000–1300mg), “Some researchers found a small increase in these risks, but others have not.” says Professor Mark Cooper, an endocrinologist and Deputy Chair of the Medical and Scientific Committee at Osteoporosis Australia. “Some researchers found a small increase in these risks, but others have not,” he says.

     

    Anyone who is concerned about their bone health should consult their health professional who may suggest a bone mineral density test. Low density can increase the risk of fractures.

     

    If extra calcium is required, taking 500mg to 600mg of supplements per day is considered safe and effective. These should be used with caution by people with a history of a kidney stone or some other kidney problems.

     

    As far as older adults are concerned, an intake of 1300 mg calcium is recommended for women 51 and over. If calcium intake is not adequate, the mineral is leached from the bones leading to loss of bone density predisposing the individual to conditions such as osteoporosis.

     

    This is common in Australia especially in the over 60s, those who don’t get out in the sun (the sun is the primary source of vitamin D), those who drink a lot of alcohol and caffeinated drinks, people with kidney disease and those who regularly take corticosteroids.

     

    Adequate Vitamin D status is essential for active calcium absorption from the gut and for bone development and remodelling. Diet is the best source of calcium. If anyone is concerned in any way, it is important to seek advice of a health professional, especially if aged over 50; a bone density scan may be recommended.

     

    While a healthy mixed diet is essential, so is activity. But lifestyle and appetite can change with age affecting diet.

     

    Decreasing appetite or reduced ability to buy and prepare healthy foods can mean that many older people don’t get enough essential vitamins and minerals. Plus, the need for fewer calories adds to this difficulty.

     

    Calcium deficiency is common in Australia. Professor Peter Ebeling, Medical Director of Osteoporosis Australia, says: “The average calcium intake in Australia is around 700–800mg per day.” (The RDI is 1000–1300mg.)

    Groups at particularly high risk include adolescents (especially girls) and post-menopausal women. The calcium requirements for both these groups are higher than other age and gender groups, at 1300mg per day (four to five serves of dairy or calcium-fortified equivalent), compared to 1000mg for most adults.

     

    Plus, there are specific conditions for which calcium and vitamin D supplements may be useful, such as osteomalacia (a condition similar to rickets that causes soft, weak bones).

     

    The study says, “Calcium supplements in healthy individuals are not needed, nor are they required in most people receiving treatment for osteoporosis.” However, the latter is inconclusive.

     

    Without doubt, a healthy mixed diet, including calcium-rich foods such as dairy and non-dairy equivalents, leafy greens and canned fish together with regular weight-bearing exercise and safe sun exposure is essential in supporting bone health.

     

    People with a family history of osteoporosis, or are concerned about their bone health, should speak to their health professional to determine a health care plan personalised to their specific needs.

     

    While a food first approach is recommended, the door is not closed to calcium and vitamin D supplements just yet.

     

    Calcium and vitamin D

    The mineral calcium is vital for healthy bones, as well as organ and muscle function.

     

    Vitamin D is also vital for building and maintaining healthy bones, and it aids calcium absorption. It is made in the skin when on exposure to sunlight (lack of exposure is the cause among most people who are deficient, such as the elderly). It is also found naturally in fatty fish, like tuna, mackerel, and salmon, as well as beef liver, cheese and egg yolks. The safe sun is important so people who are housebound may be at risk. Regular weight-bearing exercise is also important for healthy bones – again, something which may become more difficult with age.

     

    Look for calcium added (‘calcium-fortified’) and find calcium in dairy and non-dairy equivalents, canned salmon and sardines, broccoli, mustard cabbage, bok choy, silverbeet.

     

    According to HealthDirect, nearly half of Australians don’t get the recommended dietary intake of calcium; this can put many people, and the elderly housebound at risk of osteoporosis and fractures. With age, diet may become more restricted, and the ability to absorb nutrients also declines. To absorb calcium, vitamin D is essential, so regardless of how much calcium is consumed, it may not be absorbed effectively. A calcium supplement may be prescribed to bridge the calcium gap.

     

    Heart disease and kidney stones

    The study says that calcium supplements may be linked with heart disease and kidney stones. Generally, the study combined data from smaller studies where doses of calcium supplements were, on average, well above 600mg, “Some researchers found a small increase in these risks, but others have not.” says an endocrinologist and Deputy Chair of the Medical and Scientific Committee at Osteoporosis Australia. The risk of this happening is very low. But calcium supplements should be used cautiously in people with a history of a kidney stone or some other kidney problems,” says Professor Cooper.

     

    If a supplement is recommended by a doctor, 500mg to 600mg of supplements per day is considered safe and effective, says Professor Mark Cooper,

     

    As always, before starting to take or stop taking any supplement, it is advisable to consult your doctor first.

     

    Safe at the recommended dose

    If extra calcium is required, taking 500mg to 600mg of supplements per day is considered safe and effective. These should be used with caution by people with a history of a kidney stone or some other kidney problems.

     

    The standard Australian diet

    The 2016 CSIRO Healthy Diet Score canvassed the dietary habits of more than 86,500 Australian adults over 12-months surveying more than double the amount of people studies the previous year. The nation scored 61 points out of 100 but with almost 47,000 additional surveys completed recently, the score has slipped to just 59 out of 100.

    Experts urge us all to protect against the growing rates of obesity and lifestyle diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and a third of all cancers by doubling the intake of healthy food and cutting unhealthy food intake by half. This is very important for older adults and quality is vital over quantity.

     

    Older adults

    As far as older adults are concerned, an intake of 1300 mg is recommended for woman 51 and over.  Calcium deficiency is common in Australia. Professor Peter Ebeling, Medical Director of Osteoporosis Australia, says: “The average calcium intake in Australia is around 700–800mg per day.” (The RDI is 1000–1300mg.) This is equivalent to four to five serves of dairy or calcium-fortified equivalent), compared to 1000mg for most adults.

     

    If calcium intake is not adequate, calcium is leached from the bones leading to loss of bone density predisposing the individual to conditions such as osteoporosis.

     

    This is common in Australia especially in the over 60s, those who don’t get out in the sun, those who drink a lot of alcohol and caffeinated drinks, people with kidney disease and those who regularly take corticosteroids. Plus, older people often have a number of conditions for which they are being treated for and the treatments may affect calcium status.

     

    For those who are concerned about bone health, they should seek advice from a GP especially if are over 50 and consider whether a bone density scan is appropriate.

     

    Decreasing appetite or reduced ability to buy and prepare healthy foods can mean that many older people don’t get enough essential vitamins and minerals.

     

    There are specific conditions for which these supplements are useful, like osteomalacia (a condition similar to rickets that causes soft, weak bones).

    For more information, email Ravinder.lilly@cmaustralia.org.au

     

     

     

     

     

  • 07 Nov 2019 12:55 PM | Deleted user

    The Social Selling Award is supported by Direct Selling Australia and Complementary Medicines Australia. This award recognises excellence demonstrated by an organisation that provides quality complementary medicines to consumers via the direct selling sales channel.

    Peter Hurley, General Manager of Herbalife Nutrition Australia and New Zealand holds the 2019 CMA Social Selling Award  


    Peter Hurley, General Manager of Herbalife Nutrition Australia and New Zealand stated “We are honoured to be recognised as a premier global nutrition company that continues to provide high quality products to meet the demands of today’s market. This achievement would not be possible without the great work of our Members and employees. I am proud to be part of this amazing company.”


    Global Nutrition Advisory Board

    Among the many features that make Herbalife Nutrition stand out, the company is proud of their Nutritional Advisory Board (NAB). This global team of nutritional experts provide both dietary advice and scientific leadership. A representative of the NAB tours Australia on an annual wellness tour of major cities, offering free public talks to share their practical nutritional tips, easy ways to achieve balanced nutrition, and ways to incorporate exercise into each day.

     

    Ongoing training

    Herbalife Nutrition is also proud to provide ongoing training and support to their Independent Members. This is achieved through regular meetings and sales training sessions held monthly in each state. There is also a range of downloadable resources available on their member website.  

    For example, former UK Olympian, Samantha Clayton, shares practical exercise tips. Susan Bowerman, the Senior Director of Worldwide Nutrition Education and Training at Herbalife Nutrition, provides unique recipes and nutrition resources that members can access and share with their customers. The aim is to constantly improve knowledge of health and nutrition and help members build their business.

     

    Innovative products

    As far as product innovation is concerned, the company responded to the global trend towards plant-based proteins by launching Formula 1 Select: a nutrient-dense meal replacement shake formulated with pea, quinoa and rice proteins. It does not contain any GMO ingredients, is dairy and gluten-free. To sum up, it’s a clean and healthy option for today’s selective consumer.


    Herbalife Nutrition is the number one brand in the world for meal replacements, protein supplements and weight management according to Euromonitor International Limited (2019).

     

    Sports Nutrition

    The company’s sports nutrition brand Herbalife24 demonstrates their commitment to quality assurance. The comprehensive performance nutrition line has been developed to power athletes 24-hours a day. Each batch of Herbalife24 products are tested for substances prohibited in sport in Australia and New Zealand. Batch testing is done by BSCG and Informed Sports. 


    Herbalife Nutrition sponsors A-League soccer team, the Western Sydney Wanderers. Members of the NAB, including Dr Dana Ryan, a sports nutrition expert who has worked with LA Galaxy, provide training and support to the soccer team during visits to the Wanderers’ training facility.


    Opportunities for members

    Herbalife Nutrition provides a low cost start up business opportunity and practical guidelines to build a business. Customers can be assured of high-quality products backed by science. After all, it is Herbalife Nutrition’s mission is to improve the nutrition habits of people around the world while promoting a healthy active lifestyle.

     

    Passionate about giving back

    Because members are passionate about the products and also passionate about giving back, the Herbalife Nutrition Foundation (HNF) was established. HNF supports six charities in Australia and New Zealand. This includes Sunshine Butterflies, which specialises in providing information, support, resources and activity programs to people and families living with a disability. Another is the Lighthouse Foundation which provides homeless young people with a home and tailored therapeutic care that helps these vulnerable young people recover from trauma. Herbalife Nutrition Foundation supports the nutrition education programs of each of their charity partners.


    For the last six years, groups of Herbalife Nutrition Independent Members have participated in an 840km cycle - the HNF Bike Ride - to raise funds in support of these charities. Members have raised over $430,000 through the HNF Bike Ride since the event began.


    One team

    Herbalife Nutrition’s philosophy is one team and the team – employees and members – have all contributed to winning the 2019 CMA Social Selling Award. 

    “Herbalife Nutrition is passionate about continuing to take a proactive approach to help people improve their nutritional habits with great-tasting, science-backed nutrition products to help everybody get the right balance of healthy nutrition. I am proud to be part of this amazing company,” ends Peter Hurley.

     

  • 06 Nov 2019 11:35 AM | Deleted user

    Many congratulations to Lipa Pharmaceuticals, winners of the CMA 2019 Quality Manufacturing Award. No strangers to taking this important accolade, Lipa Pharmaceuticals adds this year’s award to those received in 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017. Dusko Pejnovic, Lipa Pharmaceuticals’ Chief Executive Officer, spoke to CMA about the award, the people who made winning possible and the blossoming high-quality manufacturing of complementary medicines in Australia.

     

    Dusko Pejnovic receives CMA 2019 Quality Manufacturing Award from CMA Chief Executive, Carl Gibson

    World-class standards

    “When people talk about quality, many associate it only with the process of manufacturing,” says Dusko. “But to our employees, it’s so much more. It’s a broad-ranging approach to what quality manufacturing should be for our customers and this includes quality of manufacturing ingredients, approach to customer service, internal processes and systems, compliance, communication and ultimately what the customer perceives as value for money.”

     

    Taking extra steps

    Dusko explains that understanding what the customer wants and needs and effectively interpreting what is possible when putting a product or an order for a product together is vital. “Understanding what is needed and signalling when it is possible and also when it is not possible, considering material lead times and why a product might not be ideal – all of this needs to be communicated for clarity and to support ongoing positive relationships.”

     

    What about the pitfalls?

    “The quality of product drills down to the quality of materials,” says Dusko. “Both here in Australia and overseas, quality raw materials are acquired – but at a price. Most people chase the lowest price. But some materials obtained globally might not be what they should be. So, it is critical to test materials and processes, examine suppliers and ensure that the supply chain is as good as it can be.”

    Dusko adds that raw ingredients do not have to always be perceived as Rolls Royce quality, they can be and there are lower cost suppliers but it is all about testing and having a long term relationships with suppliers so there is transparency of the supply chain.  “It is critical to assess the quality of the supply chain and the materials in that supply chain to ensure that there are no surprises - and no risks, this is a multilayered and ongoing critical process!”

     

    High-quality manufacturing and Australian complementary medicines

    “What many consumers and people don’t understand or appreciate,” says Dusko, “is that Australia is the only country in the world where the manufacturing of supplements is regulated and controlled by a pharmaceutical regulator.”

    In other countries, complementary/supplement products can be or are made virtually in any basic food class facility, depending upon what level of food the complementary/supplement product will be classed as he explains.

    “In Australia, pharmaceutical-grade manufacturing, with all its compliance related requirements, provides the ultimate standards in the processing of products which are made under exacting conditions and standard operating procedures. The skills of operators are high and activities regulated - our processes are fully document and traceable, while materials are tested to ensure they are analytically compliant to specifications,” Dusko says.

     

    Customer recognition

    Asked about how it feels to take this award again this year, Dusko says: “It is a thrill and a sense of achievement to receive this award because it’s recognition by our customers, those who vote for us, that we are doing something right. They recognise that we do our absolute best in terms of service and quality. And that means a lot.”

     

    A team effort

    Around 350 people work across the manufacturing site at Lipa Pharmaceuticals and each person and each department play a vital role. “From those on the manufacturing floor to those doing testing, customer service and many support roles – each is critical to our success. After all, if anyone in the process doesn’t contribute or something doesn’t work, success wouldn’t be possible,” explains Dusko.

     

    As well as being very proud of the team, Dusko ends by saying that he is also proud of CMA. “Because of the work of CMA, we have been able to carve out our unique position in terms of global marketing where it comes to quality of complementary product manufacturing. Globally over the last three to four years, the interest and desire to engage with and buy our products is an impressive success story. Just read the news and media feedback from Asian countries! We should be collectively proud to be recognised as an industry for the quality of our products and the high-quality standards of raw material used to make complementary medicines in Australia,” ends Dusko.

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