Visit Summit Aesthetics in Crans Montana

Nestled in the heart of Crans Montana in Switzerland, Summit Aesthetics clinic offers cutting edge technologies in an exceptional setting. Right on Rue Centrale in Crans, the clinic all designed with exclusive pieces from Armani Casa is so chic, relaxing and offers magnificent views over the Alps. Summit Aesthetics cultivates a science based approach to enhance your natural beauty. Founder Dr Philippe Magistretti has gathered a team of experts and state-of-the-art equipment in a high end environment. “The art of aesthetic medicine and plastic surgery is to bring out the best in our patients and make them feel good inside and out” explained Dr Magistretti. They are specialized in aesthetic medicine and surgery for the body and the face. Each treatment is personalized, they use Vectra XT 3D Imaging.

 How to get there? 

2 hours by train to Sierre from Geneva Airport. 

3,5 hours by car from Milan  

The clinic also organizes private transfers, depending on your treatments. 

The treatments? 

Anti-ageing? they will treat fine line and volume loss or need to rejuvenate your skin? M22 laser red reduces redness, skin pigmentation and vascular lesion. 

Need an amazing Glow? Experience a PRP Exokine session. PRP is a platelet concentrate derived from your own blood, which is injected into the dermis, and stimulates subcutaneous tissue through growth factors present in platelets.

Body treatments? yes, CoolSculpting or EmSculpt Neo are an ideal solution to build muscle and sculpt the body.  

In search of Hair transplant, Summit Aesthetics uses DHI® Direct Hair Implantation which is widely recognized as the best hair transplant technique in the world. 

7 Ways to Nourish Your Gut and Brain

Nourish your gut and brain this season by exploring 7 effective ways to begin reducing stress and inflammation in your body. Dr. Will Cole shares an expansive perspective on physical and mental wellness in his recent book, “Gut Feelings” that include the following foundational features of his gut-feeling plan:

 1.    Eating foods that love you back.

 “Loving yourself enough to find out what your body really loves and needs for vibrant wellness is the ultimate body positivity.” – Dr. Will Cole

 Certain foods can either cause unbalance or help balance a * gut-brain connection. Each new cell in your body is formed from the food choices you make. These nutrients or lack of them are intimately interconnected into every part that makes you. By eating a variety of healthy foods that you love and that react well in your body, you are shifting your perspective forwards making food choices out of self-respect - not out of restriction, shame, obsession, or punishment.

 · What is a gut-feeling connection? The gut and the brain are interwoven physically and chemically. The vagus nerve is one of 12 cranial nerves that connect your brain to different parts of the body. If you experienced butterflies in your stomach when you were anxious or moved forward with a decision based on a gut feeling, you already understand the brain-gut connection. The GI tract is sensitive to feelings and emotions and can be felt in the gut before we’ve even had a chance to fully process them emotionally. When you are trying to heal a stressed gut, it’s important to consider what roles emotions and stress may be playing, particularly when a GI issue cannot be traced to a physical source.

“Choosing not to eat foods that don’t love you back isn’t restrictive- it’s self-respect.  Some foods can raise inflammation, mess up your blood sugar, hurt your digestion and leave you feeling fatigued, anxious or down.”  – Dr. Will Cole

2.    Create your own bio-individual stress-free food plan.

 It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the latest cleanses, detoxes, injections and diets that bombard the internet and conversations. Which diet or food plan is right for me? This is what I mean when I reference “bio-individual;” something that works for your best friend may not work best for you. It’s important that YOU enjoy the foods you are choosing to eat. Good back to those nostalgic aromas and flavors during the most special moments of your life. What shows up for you in terms of flavors?

Start by focusing on meals that bring you pleasure to eat and have fun modernizing a traditional family recipe with your own twist or have a nutrition coach like myself guide you in this process of creating a meal plan that works for you.

In terms of nutrition, protein is the foundation of a great food plan. Protein and the amino acids that make it up, give us that feeling of satiation, supports building strong muscles, cartilage, skin and nourishes our bones. On a cellular level, it helps us repair as we age or get injured, while keeping our metabolism in check and a healthy weight. If you are not getting enough protein, it can affect brain functioning and mental health as neurotransmitters are made from amino acids.

Most of my clients ask me what the highest sources of plant-based proteins:

 Natto (organic, non-GMO) (31 grams of protein per 1 cup)

Tempeh (organic, non-GMO) (31 grams of protein per 1 cup)

Sacha Inchi seed protein powder (24 grams of protein per 4 tablespoons)

Hempeh (tempeh made from hempseed) (22 grams of protein per 4 ounces)

Hemp protein powder (12 grams of protein per 4 tablespoons)

Almonds (6 grams of protein per 23 nuts)

Brazil nuts (4 grams of protein per 6 nuts)

Cashews (4 grams of protein per 18 nuts)

Chia seeds (4 grams of protein per 2 tablespoons)

Flaxseed 4 grams of protein per 2 tablespoons)

Artichokes (4 grams of protein per ½ cup)

Don’t forget to include some delicious healthy fats, which is a great source of lasting energy. Fat is an essential component to our hormonal health, metabolism, cognitive health and healthy cells. Not getting enough fats can really impact our cognition, mood and behavior. Some healthy fats that Dr. Will Cole recommends include:

Pasture raise eggs

Olives and olive oil

Raw or sprouted nuts and seeds

Avocado and avocado oil

Full-fat dairy products, especially raw or fermented

Grass-fed butter and ghee

Coconut oil

Goat cheese

Carbohydrates are also important because they help your body produce important brain chemicals like serotonin. Serotonin plays a crucial role in your nervous system and in your ability to sleep. There is a strong connection to carbs and sleep; serotonin is made from carbohydrates, but melatonin (your sleep hormone) is made from melatonin. Of course, a meal wouldn’t be complete with what I consider to be the foundation of every plate: plants. Fruits and vegetables are rich in nutrients, antioxidants, beneficial fibers and polyphenols that nourish your gut and brain.

For anyone experiencing sensitive digestion, or if you are working towards healing and balancing your gut, start off with more soft, cooked vegetables like soups and stews. Infusing your meals with “nature’s pharmacy” blend of herbs and spices not only have medicinal benefits, but they also abundant layers of flavors to your meals.

3.    Make time to honor your emotional and psychological world.

“Every bite of food we put in our mouths contains messages to our body that promote either healthy and vitality or disease and distress.” - Dr. Will Cole

 Bringing in daily “metaphysical meals,” investing in this aspect of health as much as in food or exercise. “Metaphysical meals” are those moments of stillness and nourishment. Have you ever eaten a healthy meal with all the colors of the rainbow on your plate, and still ended up with stomach pain, bloating or other discomfort? By sitting down and eating in a stressed state, distracted, or anxious then continue back to a busy and hectic day; it doesn’t leave a moment for a break or peace to occur.

 4.    Practicing radical self-compassion.

“Remember, you can’t heal a body you hate.” – Dr. Will Cole

 Our relationship food is reflection of how we connect and feel in our bodies. A healthy body image looks different for each of us. For some, body image is having a clear and realistic view of your body. You see and accept yourself as you authentically are, and you understand that what you look like does not determine your worth as a person. 

For others, you may have a distorted view of yourself, and it’s hard to accept or love yourself. Your body image can change over time, shift from moment to moment, or bring up mixed feelings. Allowing ourselves to honor our body and nourish our hunger by enjoying a variety of foods, we connect our mind and bodies with “intuitive eating.” Intuitive eating is “trusting your body to make food choices that feel good for you, without judging yourself or the influence of diet culture. (Source: National Eating Disorders Association).

 5.    Slow down.

 “True sustainable wellness flows from realizing your intrinsic worth.”

 One of the most important parts of restoring a healthy gut-feeling connection is the time we spend focusing less on “doing,” and focus more on “being.” Slowing down the pace and making time for being present. Our constant race, non-stop productivity and achievement after achievement needs some breaks in between.

 Take a moment to reflect on your current morning routine. Do you immediately grab your cell phone to scroll upon waking or jump out of bed in a rushed state (elevating your cortisol) or do you take time to slow down and stretch when you first wake up? Developing your own morning practice of having some sacred time to expose yourself to sunlight upon waking (this can improve your sleep), enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while meditating, or a few minutes of journaling or flow writing to start your day can positively impact the rest of your day.

6.    Explore the role of stress and emotions and their impact on gut health.

“Chronic stress: the ultimate junk food for the body.

“If you don’t want to burn out, stop living like you’re on fire.” – Brené Brown 

 How you cope with stress and ability to release your emotions matters. If you don’t have healthy ways of coping, the stress and emotions can manifest in your body, leading to symptoms like inflammation.

 Think about the ways you process your emotions and cope with stress. How can you add in more calming activities and movements like tai chi, meditation walks, or journaling? Maybe look at organizing your living and workspaces so they are clutter-free and peaceful environments to be in. Don’t forget to ask for help when you feel overwhelmed or ask a friend to pick up your child from school or anything to take the pressure off yourself.

 There are many strategies for managing stress and taming inflammation that Dr. Will Cole offers in a 21-day “gut-feeling” plan in his book like breathwork, optimizing sleep, getting vitamin D, tracking your water intake, doing a digital detox, etc.

7.    Have a mindful meal.

 “If you’re rushing during mealtimes, you’re not able to use all the digestive energy needed to really break down food, absorb, and assimilate nutrients in your food. This can lead to gut health issues and chronic stress.” – Dr. Will Cole

 Take your time to first connect with your food before letting it get close to your mouth. Take a moment to smell your food; this also helps you to salivate, stimulating the release of digestive enzymes and starting the digestive process. Admire the colors, see the art on your plate, notice the textures, and chew nice and slowly, really tasting it. Put your fork or spoon down after each bite, so your hand isn’t in turbo speed but in a relaxed state to enjoy your food.

 Try to sit down and enjoy this meal without distractions if it’s possible. Leave your cell phone and technology in a different room and leave your work at the office (don’t bring it to mealtime).

 If you are upset or anxious about something don’t eat your meal right away or in a rushed state. Maybe take a walk or do something to release that energy so you can eat in a calmer state, giving your body a chance to fully break down and absorb the nutrients properly.

 If you are able to, share your meal with someone you love, a friend or a neighbor so you can enjoy eating in community with others. By taking time to enjoy your meal in good company, allows time to slow down, share stories, laughter and a nourishing meal together.

One of my favorite gut and brain boosting recipes that I have adapted, inspired by Dr Will Cole is centered around “sweet potato toasts:

Sweet Potato “Toasts” 3 Ways:  Beet Hummus, Chili Lover, Avocado-Kissed by Kristine Kelly

Serves 4:

Prep: 25 minutes

Bake: 15 minutes

Cook: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

2 large, sweet potatoes

2 tbsp avocado oil

2 small ripe avocados, halved, pitted, peeled, thinly sliced

1 tbsp fresh lemon or lime juice

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Pinch of Himalayan sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

 1.    Preheat oven to 425 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the sweet potatoes lengthwise into “toasts” about ½ inch thick. Arrange sweet potatoes on the abking sheet; brush both sides with melted avocado oil; and season to taste with sea salt and pepper.

 2.    Roast the sweet potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes. Remove potatoes from the oven; cover to keep warm.

 3.    Meanwhile prepare your desired toppings of choice:

Topping Ideas:

· Beet hummus (make traditional hummus but then blend in 2 roasted beets and you will have a beautiful pink hummus. You can then add roasted chickpeas on top, feta cheese (if you are not sensitive to dairy products), Urfa biber pepper, sesame seeds and microgreens.

· Black Bean Puree, * chipotle Brazil nut sauce, avocado cilantro.

· Poached egg, kimchi, avocado, microgreens.

· Avocado, radish, microgreens, cayenne (if you like spice), sea salt and pepper.

Chipotle Brazil Nut Sauce Recipe by Kristine Kelly:

 2 cups of brazil nuts (soak first)

2 lemons juiced

3 red bell peppers, roasted, remove seeds

2 garlic cloves, roasted

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to taste

4 tablespoons nutritional yeast

½ teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon of raw honey

¾ cup water (or more if needed for a smooth consistency)

Directions:

Soak 2 cups of brazil nuts overnight or for at least 30 minutes before using. Prep another dish while waiting for this to soak. After soaking, rinse brazil nuts again after soaking them. Use blender to blend all remaining ingredients together. Use spatula to scrape down the sides of the vitamix. Add more water as needed, ¼ cup at a time to blend to a smoother consistency.

More info about:

Nutrition Coach + Chef Kristine Kelly

@kristinebeautylab

The Ultimate Beauty Travel Kit By Dr. Lara Devgan

Image courtesy of Dr. Lara Devgan

“The key to an optimal travel skincare routine is to keep it simple, effective, and adaptable to your on-the-go needs”.

Prioritize sun protection, hydration, and high-efficacy products to ensure your skin stays healthy, glowing, and well-protected throughout your various adventures. 

The Dr. Lara Devgan Scientific Beauty products that always stay in my travel arsenal are my Vitamin C+B+E Ferulic Serum, Hyaluronic Serum, Platinum Long Lash, Platinum Lip Plump SPF 30, and of course, my SPF Beauty Bundle.

Vitamin C+B+E Ferulic serum provides optimal protection against the harmful effects of free radicals and is a potent skin brightener and pigment corrector. Hyaluronic Serum is an ultra-hydrating serum that boosts collagen and elastin production and will soothe post-sun skin. Platinum Long Lash for beautiful and voluminous lashes without mascara, and Platinum Lip Plump SPF 30 to stay plumped and protected all year around.

Finally, my SPF Beauty Bundle is comprised of my SPF 44 BB Cream, SPF 50 Concealer, and SPF 50 Dusting Powder for all of your sun protection needs. 

By incorporating these essentials into your summer travel routine, you can ensure that your skin will remain radiant, healthy, and protected throughout your adventures.

Image courtesy of Dr. Lara Devgan www.drlaradevgan.com