As the colorful foliage cascades to the ground and the crisp air turns frosty, November marks the end of another blissful pumpkin spice drinking, sweater wearing, turkey eating season, and signals the beginning of winter’s harsh embrace. Ah yes… the season of cold and flu. Of rashy, dry skin and shoveling snow. Of dark mornings and dark nights, delayed bus routes and frostbite - there’s no denying that wintertime can be hard on the mind, body, and soul. But don’t panic just yet, Coco Market has got you covered! We’ve put together a November survival kit filled with some of our all time favourite immunity boosting, nourishing, and self care products to help get you through this transition. Just because the outdoors are miserable, doesn’t mean your insides have to be. With these products by your side, you’ll be able to take on whatever this winter season throws at you.

1. Sea Moss 

You may have heard of it before, perhaps amongst traditional Caribbean cuisine - or more recently, celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Hailey Bieber promoting it on television. But what is it really, and what are the health benefits of consuming it?

Sea moss is a versatile and nutrient packed marine superfood. Also known as Irish moss, it’s a specific seaweed that grows in the Atlantic Ocean, particularly along the coasts of North America and Europe. There are various ways one can integrate sea moss into their diet. One example is preparing it into a gel form which can then be added into smoothies, soups, or a thickening agent for recipes. 

Health benefits:

• Rich in nutrients - A powerhouse of essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, C, iodine, iron, magnesium, potassium, and calcium. 

• Immune system support - Contains antioxidants that can combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body. 

• Improved digestive health - Rich in dietary fiber, which can promote healthy digestion and relieve issues such as constipation and heartburn.

• Skin health - High sulfur content can contribute to healthy skin. Often used to improve skin texture, reduce inflammation, and promote a youthful complexion. 

• Thyroid function - Excellent source of iodine, which is crucial for thyroid health and the regulation of hormones. 

• Weight management - May reduce appetite and increasing a feeling of fullness due to its high fibre content. 

• Joint and muscle health - Contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce joint and muscle pain, making it a potential remedy for arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. 

We exclusively use Serenity Seamoss for the optimal sea moss experience.  

We know her! We love her! Also known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining good health. It's renowned for its immune-boosting properties and is often associated with preventing and alleviating the common cold. However, the importance of vitamin C extends far beyond just fending off sniffles.

Health benefits: 

• Immune System Support - Enhances the production of white blood cells and antibodies, which help your body fight off infections. Regular intake of vitamin C can reduce the severity and duration of colds and flu.

• Antioxidant Defense - Helps neutralize free radicals in the body. This process may reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, certain types of cancer, and arthritis.

• Collagen Production - Essential for the synthesis of collagen, a protein that plays a vital role in the structure of skin, blood vessels, tendons, and ligaments. Adequate vitamin C intake promotes healthy skin and can help prevent skin aging.

• Wound Healing - The body needs vitamin C to create scar tissue and repair wounds, fractures, and other injuries. It also aids in the absorption of iron from plant-based foods, which is essential for overall health.

• Cardiovascular Health - May contribute to a reduced risk of heart disease by improving blood vessel function and reducing blood pressure. It can also help lower levels of "bad" LDL cholesterol.

• Cognitive Function - May have a role in preserving cognitive function as you age. It could potentially protect against cognitive decline and conditions like dementia.

This vitamin is naturally present in many foods, but often times our diet is not always consistent. That's why we love taking Cymbiotika Liposomal vitamin C sachets to ensure adequate intake! Their liposomal delivery technology provides superior absorption in comparison to a traditional oral C vitamin, and not to mention their tasty “citrus vanilla” flavouring makes it hard to not crave. 

Ginger, lemon, cayenne, and maple - do not be mistaken by the simplicity of these humble ingredients. When combined, a powerhouse of wellness is created, offering a wide range of advantages for your body.

Ginger: The Healing Root. It has been used for centuries for its medical properties, such as:

• Alleviate Digestive Issues - Helps soothe an upset stomach, reduces nausea, and aids in digestion. It can be particularly beneficial for those who experience motion sickness or morning sickness during pregnancy.

• Reduce Inflammation - Contains potent anti-inflammatory compounds, which may help alleviate muscle and joint pain, making it a natural remedy for conditions like osteoarthritis.

• Support Immune Function - Ginger's immune-boosting properties can help protect your body from infections and enhance its overall defense mechanisms.

• Enhance Circulation - This spice can improve blood circulation, reducing the risk of cardiovascular problems and promoting a healthy heart.

• Combat Oxidative Stress - Its antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and supporting healthy aging.

A go to for us is consistently the Goodvibes Juice Company Sick Day Shot. It’s the perfect concoction of immunity boosters you need to combat any cold or sickness and get back out into the world. 

It goes without saying that staying hydrated is an integral part to one's health and wellness. But many do not consider the fact that proper hydration and electrolyte balance are intrinsically linked. 

Electrolytes are essential minerals that play a pivotal role in maintaining the proper functioning of the human body. These charged ions, including sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, and bicarbonate, are responsible for numerous vital functions, such as regulating muscle contractions, maintaining proper hydration, and ensuring the electrical activity of cells. 

By being mindful of your electrolyte intake, especially during periods of increased activity or illness, you can significantly enhance your overall well-being and maintain the body's delicate balance. Whether you're an athlete, someone dealing with a medical condition, or just looking to stay healthy, electrolytes are an essential component of a well-rounded and balanced diet.

We’re obsessed with LMNT these days. A sugar free, extra salty electrolyte mix you won’t regret trying. *You can purchase in store only* 

Ah yes, the liquid gold. Bone broth is a nutrient and mineral rich concoction that has been enjoyed for centuries across cultures. It's obtained by simmering bones and connective tissues, such as tendons and ligaments, for an extended period. This slow-cooking process extracts valuable nutrients, minerals, and collagen from the bones, resulting in a flavourful and highly nutritious liquid. 

Health benefits:

Ripe Nutrition bone broth is a top pick in our eyes! Made locally and from the highest of quality organic superfood ingredients - they have a beef, chicken, and mushroom option to satisfy all preferences.

In addition to taking care of our insides, we must not forget to give extra attention to our skin during these dry dry times. Proper moisturizing will not only subside temporary dryness, but it will also reinforce your skin's natural barrier, preventing moisture loss and protection from external irritants. 

Not sure which moisturizer to get? Egyptian Magic Skin Cream is a multi-purpose, natural, and cruelty-free skincare product that has gained a devoted following for its ability to address various skin concerns. Here's why it's a must-have during the dry season:

• Natural Ingredients: Egyptian Magic is made from six simple, all-natural ingredients: olive oil, beeswax, honey, bee pollen, royal jelly, and propolis. These ingredients are free from harmful chemicals and additives.
• Intense Hydration: The blend of oils and beeswax in Egyptian Magic provides intense hydration, sealing in moisture and protecting your skin from the harsh elements.
• Versatile Use: Egyptian Magic can be used for a multitude of skin concerns, including dryness, chapped lips, rough elbows, and even as a makeup primer. Its versatility makes it a valuable addition to your skincare routine.
• Cruelty-Free: Egyptian Magic is cruelty-free, meaning it has not been tested on animals, making it a responsible and ethical choice for conscientious consumers.

Check out Egyptian Magic at our store or online, your skin will be forever grateful! 

And that concludes our blog for this week! I hope this was somewhat helpful or informative, and that you are feeling re-inspired to take on November with these trusty sidekicks. Be sure to check back next week for another blog, otherwise thanks for reading and be well! xx