Jessica Sepel JSHealth Interview

Introducing The Nutritionist Approved Plant-Based Protein and Probiotic Range

Nuzest has been powering Australians since 2013 with a plant-based protein and supplement range that's backed by science. Today, they've partnered with clinical nutritionist and author, Jessica Sepel to create an all-in-one delicious protein and probiotics product, JSHealth X Nuzest combines the purest of vegetable proteins with probiotics for an extra-large serving of gut love.

Your gut has 10 times more bacteria than we have cells in the body, experts explain that the gut is commonly known as our "second brain", as your gut health is often a reflection of your overall health .

"I've always wanted to create a protein with added probiotics for a big hit of gut love," Jess explains. Which is why she has included her favourite gut-loving probiotic, Lactobacillus Rhamnosus GG, in her protein blend with Nuzest to ensure that it's easily digestible and also supports healthy gut flora.

Lactobacillus Rhamnosus GG plays many potential roles in our overall health and wellbeing, including:
● Supporting the health and function of the immune system
● Supporting the health and function of the gastrointestinal tract
● Supporting the integrity of the digestive tract
● Supporting the health and function of the gastrointestinal tract following antibiotic therapy
● Maintaining and stabilising healthy gut microflora
● Assisting with the digestion and absorption of nutrients

As a self-confessed foodie, Jess loves to kick-start her day with a nourishing smoothie full of protein, fruit, fibre and good fats. She believes in giving her body the very best, which is why she chose Nuzest to create these unique plant-based proteins. The range is based off her two favourite smoothie recipes – Cookies & Cream and Cinnamon Scroll. Jess shares her two favourite smoothie recipes, below.

JS Health Cookies & Cream Smoothie

Ingredients
1 serve JSHealth x Nuzest Cookies & Cream Protein + Probiotics
2 tbsp desiccated coconut
1 Medjool date, pitted and chopped ½ frozen banana
3 tbsp rolled oats (optional)
1 cup almond or coconut milk

Pinch of sea salt
1 cup ice

Method
Place all the ingredients in a high-powered blender. Blend until smooth. Pour into a glass and enjoy!

JSHealth Cinnamon Scroll Smoothie

Ingredients
1 serve JSHealth x Nuzest Cinnamon Scroll Protein + Probiotics.
1 frozen banana, sliced
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
1 tbsp chia seeds
1 tbsp almond butter (optional)
1 cup ice
1 tsp cinnamon

Method
Place all the ingredients in a high-powered blender. Blend until smooth. Pour into a glass and enjoy!

JSHealth x Nuzest Protein, Cookies & Cream: $49.95
JSHealth x Nuzest Protein, Cinnamon Scroll: $49.95

To see the full range of Nuzest products visit https://www.nuzest.com.au/

Check with your Chemist  if this is right for you. 

Interview with Jessica Sepel, Clinical Nutritionist and Founder of JSHealth and JSHealth Vitamins

Question: Can you tell us about the newest addition to the JSHealth range?

Jessica Sepel: Our JSHealth x Nuzest Protein + Probiotics Powder combines plant-based protein and high-quality probiotics. It's also vegan, free from gluten, soy and GMO ingredients, with no added sugars or preservatives. Plus, it's so delicious. I've been using it almost every morning in my protein smoothie, overnight oats and chia pudding. It keeps me feeling satiated and has an extra boost of probiotics, which is great for gut health and keeping you regular.


Question: What inspired the creation of the JSHealth x Nuzest Protein + Probiotic range?

Jessica Sepel: For years the JSHealth Community has been asking me which protein powder I recommend. I've used Nuzest for years, because they're made with pea protein, which is easy to digest and they don't add any artificial sweeteners, flavours or preservatives. So, after years of using and recommending Nuzest, it naturally made sense for us to bring out our own protein powder, because we use it in so many of our breakfast, snack and dessert recipes. We have created a truly high quality protein in two delicious flavours: Cinnamon Scroll, and Cookies and Cream.


Question: Can you tell us about the ingredients included in the JSHealth x Nuzest Protein + Probiotic range?

Jessica Sepel: Our range is free from gluten, dairy, soy, GMO ingredients and it is also 100% vegan. It also contains no fillers, added sugars or preservatives. It is made using kosher ingredients and manufacturing processes however the finished product does not have an official Kosher certification. Plus, it's so delicious! I simply cannot get enough. The Cinnamon Scroll tastes like the most delicious cinnamon bun.


Question: What are some of the symptoms associated with gut health problems?

Jessica Sepel: Symptoms of gut health issues include bloating, constipation, wind, slow digestion, lethargy or reflux.

Question: What is the relationship between a healthy gut and healthy brain?

Jessica Sepel: It has become apparent that a connection does exist between the brain and the gut microbiome. The bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, benefit from a nutritionally dense protected environment, which benefit the human host by making nutrients available to the body. Systems that ensure optimal function of the gut-brain axis include the central, autonomic and enteric nervous systems. Irritable bowel syndrome and irritable bowel disease are two conditions that characterise a disruption in the communication between the gut and the brain. An unhealthy diet, antibiotic use and life stress can all disturb the function of the gut and contribute to the development of many mental and neurological conditions.


Question: How can we improve our gut-health, from today?

Jessica Sepel: • Eat wholefoods: Stick to good-quality protein, slow-releasing carbohydrates, healthy fats, veggies, fruits, grains, nuts and seeds. Ideally, you should be eating these foods every day.

• Take a good-quality probiotic: I take a probiotic every morning before breakfast. It's fantastic for promoting digestion and good gut bacteria.

• Avoid processed, refined and packaged foods: This includes refined sugar, pre-packaged foods, soda, chewing gum and artificial sweeteners.


Question: What changes could we expect when regularly taking the gut-loving probiotic, Lactobacillus Rhamnosus GG?

Jessica Sepel: This is one of my favourite probiotic strains, as it helps to nourish the gut flora and support digestion. It also helps to decrease bloating. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG is one of the most widely studied probiotic strains. This strain is specifically beneficial for its influence in the management of both gastrointestinal and allergic conditions in children through altering the composition of the intestinal microflora.


Question: What's next for you and JSHealth?

Jessica Sepel: There are so many projects happening at JSHealth HQ. I recently launched my third book, The 12-Step Mind-Body-Food Reset, which outlines my 12 principles to give up dieting for life and establish a healthy, balanced and beautiful relationship with food and our bodies. We also recently launched our AM+PM Vitamins, which is an all-in-one multivitamin, packed with all of the nutrients and minerals our bodies need to thrive. The AM Vitamin is designed to assist with stress, energy and immunity throughout the day, while the PM Vitamin is designed to assist with calmness and relaxation at the end of the day. Also, we're just about to release our high-purity fish oil supplement called Mental Wellbeing + Skin + Joints. It's got vanilla in it, which gives it a beautiful scent (nothing fishy about it!).


Interview by Brooke Hunter