The old adage that our health is in our hands rings true for Frances Bohm, and it’s one that she’d like to see more people taking seriously. Having faced a number of health challenges herself, including allergies, serious infections and cancer, she is now on a path to help others take charge of their health and make positive lifestyle changes.
During a counseling course, she found that her interests could be combined with a talent for public speaking so she decided to build a career as a healthy lifestyle motivator and health broker, calling her new business EverWell Living.
“My main concern is that we have listened to too many big lies - that we can fill our bodies with whatever we like, treat our skins with whatever we like, and not pay the consequences,” says Frances, previously an accountant who moved from Tauranga to Masterton in 2006.
“I’m interested in prevention and dealing with the causes, rather than just symptoms. It’s not always easy to make what are sometimes huge lifestyle changes in order to get well, so I want to be an encourager.”
As a health broker, Frances is always looking out for effective products. Manuka Gold UMF 25+ honey is produced in Masterton, and now distributed by her in Wairarapa and Wellington.
Frances has first-hand experience of the honey’s dramatic health potential when she developed severe, painful cellulitis in late 2006, and opted to use the honey in her dressings. “The moment it went on, there was no pain,” she says. “Within three weeks I had healthy skin.” She now has no visible scarring.
Manuka honey’s power in fighting staphaureus, streptococcus and helicobacter pylori (linked to stomach ulcers) is now being studied in hospitals internationally. But it pays to read labels. Honey labeled with a ‘UMF’ rating has been tested and rated for its antibacterial activity by NZ Labs using the ‘Assay’ test developed by the Honey Research Unit at the University of Waikato.
Frances says ‘bio-active’ manuka honey should be in every home first aid cabinet, for supporting the immune system, fighting winter colds, soothing upset stomachs, healing burns – and even acne.
“Mixed with lemon juice, honey soothes a sore throat and its antibacterial, antiseptic properties are beneficial too. But it’s always wise to check with your doctor before using honey for health reasons.”
Frances suggests other ways of building up the body’s natural defenses include reducing sugars and yeasts; eating plenty of fruit and vegetables; taking a vitamin supplement; getting some sunshine (without sunblock); and exercise. And she’s a big fan of strong cocoa drinks. Just add honey. For more information on the Waikato Honey Research Unit, go to: bio.waikato.ac.nz/honey.
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