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Say goodbye to slow charging with our 3x faster iPhone USB-C charger!

2023-09-05T10:48:00.002-04:00

Are you tired of waiting hours for your iPhone to charge? With our 3x faster iPhone USB-C charger, you can get your phone up and running in no time.

Our charger uses the latest USB-C Power Delivery technology to deliver up to 20W of power to your iPhone. That's 3 times faster than the standard charger that comes with your iPhone.

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Charges your iPhone 3x faster than the standard charger
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Drink your Vitamins - to Avoid Getting a Pill Stuck in Your Throat

2023-06-23T11:14:00.003-04:00

Isotonix vitamins are a type of liquid vitamin that are absorbed into the bloodstream more quickly than pills. They are also easier to digest and more versatile than pills.

Here are some of the benefits of Isotonix vitamins over pill form:

Faster absorption: Isotonix vitamins are absorbed into the bloodstream more quickly than pills, which means you get the nutrients you need faster. This is because Isotonix vitamins are dissolved in a solution that is isotonic to the blood, which means that the nutrients can be easily absorbed without having to be broken down first.
Easier digestion: Isotonix vitamins are often easier to digest than pills, which can be helpful for people with digestive problems. This is because Isotonix vitamins do not contain binders or fillers, which can be difficult to digest.
More versatile: Isotonix vitamins can be added to your favorite drinks, or even mixed into food. This makes them a great option for people who have trouble swallowing pills or who don't like the taste of vitamins.
More effective: Some studies have shown that Isotonix vitamins may be more effective than pills at delivering nutrients to the body. This is because Isotonix vitamins are absorbed into the bloodstream more quickly, which means that they have more time to work before they are broken down.

If you are considering switching to Isotonix vitamins, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Talk to your doctor: Before you start taking any new supplements, it's important to talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if Isotonix vitamins are right for you and can recommend a specific product.
Do your research: There are many different Isotonix vitamins on the market, so it's important to do your research and choose a product that's high quality and made with good ingredients.
Start slowly: When you first start taking Isotonix vitamins, it's best to start slowly and gradually increase your dose. This will help your body adjust to the new nutrients.

Overall, Isotonix vitamins offer a number of benefits over pill form vitamins. They are absorbed into the bloodstream more quickly, easier to digest, and more versatile. If you are looking for a more effective and versatile way to get your daily dose of nutrients, Isotonix vitamins are a great option.

What are the 90 essential nutrients needed in human body

2023-06-15T12:37:00.006-04:00

The human body needs 90 essential nutrients to function properly. These nutrients are divided into two categories: macronutrients and micronutrients. Macronutrients are needed in larger amounts, while micronutrients are needed in smaller amounts.

Macronutrients

Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy. They are found in foods like bread, pasta, rice, fruits, and vegetables.
Proteins are essential for building and repairing tissues. They are found in foods like meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy products, and beans.
Fats are needed for energy, cell growth, and insulation. They are found in foods like meat, fish, poultry, dairy products, nuts, and seeds.

Micronutrients

Vitamins are organic substances that are essential for the body's metabolic processes. There are 13 essential vitamins, which are divided into two groups: fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and water-soluble vitamins (C and the B vitamins).
Minerals are inorganic substances that are essential for the body's structure and function. There are 16 essential minerals, which include calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc.

The body cannot produce essential nutrients on its own, so they must be obtained from food. A healthy diet that includes a variety of foods can provide the body with all the essential nutrients it needs. However, some people may need to take supplements, especially if they have certain health conditions or if they do not eat a balanced diet.

Get your Daily Essentials here!!!!!

Here is a table of the 90 essential nutrients:

Nutrient	Category	Function	Food Sources
Vitamin A	Fat-soluble	Vision, growth, and immunity	Carrots, sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, kale, spinach, liver, eggs, milk
Vitamin C	Water-soluble	Antioxidant, immune system function, wound healing	Citrus fruits, berries, tomatoes, potatoes, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, peppers
Vitamin D	Fat-soluble	Bone health, immune system function	Sunlight, oily fish, fortified milk and orange juice
Vitamin E	Fat-soluble	Antioxidant, cell health	Vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, leafy green vegetables
Vitamin K	Fat-soluble	Blood clotting, bone health	Green leafy vegetables, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, liver, eggs
Thiamin	Water-soluble	Metabolism, nervous system function	Whole grains, lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, nuts, seeds
Riboflavin	Water-soluble	Metabolism, energy production	Dairy products, leafy green vegetables, lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, nuts, seeds
Niacin	Water-soluble	Metabolism, energy production, skin health	Lean meats, poultry, fish, whole grains, enriched cereals, nuts, seeds
Pantothenic acid	Water-soluble	Metabolism, energy production	Whole grains, lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, nuts, seeds
Biotin	Water-soluble	Metabolism, cell growth	Whole grains, lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, seeds
Folate	Water-soluble	Cell division, fetal development	Dark green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, beans, lentils, fortified cereals
Vitamin B12	Water-soluble	Metabolism, nervous system function	Animal products, fortified cereals
Calcium	Mineral	Bone health, muscle function	Dairy products, leafy green vegetables, fortified foods
Iron	Mineral	Blood health, oxygen transport	Lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, dark green leafy vegetables
Magnesium	Mineral	Energy production, muscle and nerve function	Whole grains, leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans, lentils
Phosphorus	Mineral	Bone health, energy production	Meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, whole grains, nuts, seeds
Potassium	Mineral	Fluid balance, muscle and nerve function	Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy products
Zinc	Mineral	Immune system function, wound healing	Lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, nuts, seeds

It is important to note that the 90 essential nutrients are not all created equal. Some nutrients are more important than others, and some people may need more of certain nutrients than others. It is always best to talk to a doctor or registered dietitian to determine your specific nutrient needs.

Get Your Daily Essentials Right Here!!!!

Ben Patrick - Knees Over Toes and Solution for Knee Pain

2023-05-02T16:05:00.006-04:00

Ben Patrick, also known as the "Knees Over Toes Guy," is a strength coach and movement specialist who has developed a unique approach to training the knees. Patrick believes that the traditional way of training the knees is flawed, and that it can actually lead to knee pain and dysfunction. He advocates for a more holistic approach to knee training, which focuses on improving range of motion, strength, and stability.

Patrick's approach to knee training is based on the concept of "knees over toes." This means that when you perform exercises that involve bending your knees, your knees should be in line with, or even slightly in front of, your toes. This position allows you to use your muscles more efficiently and effectively, and it helps to protect your knees from injury.

Ben Patrick and the Nordic Curl

Ben Patrick is a strength coach and personal trainer who is known for his work on the Nordic curl. The Nordic curl is a variation of the traditional hamstring curl that is performed without any weights. It is a challenging exercise that can help to build strength and flexibility in the hamstrings.

Patrick developed an interest in the Nordic curl after he injured his hamstring while playing basketball. He was looking for a way to rehab his injury and prevent it from happening again. He found that the Nordic curl was a very effective exercise for strengthening and stretching the hamstrings.

Patrick has since become a vocal advocate for the Nordic curl. He believes that it is a superior exercise to the traditional hamstring curl because it is more challenging and it engages more muscle groups. He has also developed a training program called "B-Strong" that is based on the Nordic curl.

The Nordic curl is a challenging exercise, but it is also a very effective one. If you are looking for a way to build strength and flexibility in your hamstrings, the Nordic curl is a great option.

Here are some of the benefits of the Nordic curl:

It is a very challenging exercise that can help to build strength and power in the hamstrings.
It is a very effective exercise for rehabbing hamstring injuries.
It is a very versatile exercise that can be modified to fit the needs of different people.
It is a very safe exercise that is low-risk of injury.

If you are interested in trying the Nordic curl, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, it is important to start slowly and gradually increase the difficulty of the exercise as you get stronger. Second, it is important to use proper form to avoid injury. Third, it is important to listen to your body and stop if you feel any pain.

The Nordic curl is a great exercise that can help you to improve your hamstring strength and flexibility. If you are looking for a challenging and effective way to train your hamstrings, the Nordic curl is a great option.

Patrick has developed a number of exercises that can help to improve knee range of motion, strength, and stability. These exercises include:

Knee extensions
Knee flexions
Calf raises
Ankle raises
Hip extensions
Hip flexions
Glute bridges
Bird dogs
Planks
Side planks

Patrick also recommends using a variety of tools and equipment to help you improve your knee health. These tools include:

Knee sleeves
Knee braces
Knee bands
Kettlebells
Dumbbells
Resistance bands

If you are experiencing knee pain, Patrick's approach to knee training may be a helpful solution. By improving your range of motion, strength, and stability, you can help to protect your knees from injury and pain.

Sled pulling is a great exercise for strengthening the hamstrings, glutes, and back. It can also help to improve knee stability. To perform sled pulling, you will need a weighted sled or a resistance band. If you are using a weighted sled, place it behind you and attach it to your waist with a harness. If you are using a resistance band, loop it around your waist and anchor it to a sturdy object.

To start, get into a kneeling position behind the sled. Keep your back straight and your core engaged. Lean forward and grab the handles of the sled. Use your hamstrings, glutes, and back to pull the sled towards you. Once the sled is close to you, stand up and release the handles. Repeat this exercise for 10-12 repetitions.

Sled pulling is a great exercise for people of all fitness levels. If you are new to sled pulling, start with a light weight or resistance band. As you get stronger, you can increase the weight or resistance.

Here are some additional tips for preventing and treating knee pain:

Maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight puts extra stress on your knees.
Strengthen your muscles. Strong muscles help to support your knees and protect them from injury.
Stretch regularly. Stretching helps to improve your range of motion and flexibility.
Wear supportive shoes. Shoes that provide good support can help to reduce the impact on your knees.
Avoid activities that put stress on your knees. If you have knee pain, it is important to avoid activities that make your pain worse.
See a doctor. If you are experiencing severe knee pain, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

National Blueberry Month: 5 Reasons to Celebrate

2019-07-17T07:18:00.000-04:00

National Blueberry Month: 5 Reasons to Celebrate

There are dozens of reasons we love summer between cookouts, beach vacations, and all of the fresh fruits and veggies in season, but one little fruit is getting extra attention this month. Refusing to be overlooked, the small-but-mighty North American fruit is taking over July with National Blueberry Month! Keep reading to find out why these little fruits pack a huge punch:

Blueberries are a classic summer food. The blueberry season itself runs from May until October, but peaks in July just in time for summer salads, smoothies, and farmer’s markets! If the sweetness wasn’t enough to make you fall in love with one of America’s favorite superfoods, here’s a peek at the long list of benefits that make them more than deserving of their month of recognition:

They’re great for your bones

Can you guess how many vitamins the blueberry has that assist bone health? Most would stop at two or three. After all, they’re tiny! In fact, they contain seven: iron, phosphorous, calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, and vitamin K. While iron and zinc help to maintain the elasticity of bones and joints, vitamin K has been shown to prevent bone fractures over time.

They help with weight loss & digestion

Blueberries have a surprisingly high fiber content within the jewel blue skin. In fact, adding one cup of fresh blueberries can add up to 4.2 grams of fiber to your diet with only 80 calories! Getting enough fiber not only helps with regulating digestion and maintaining a healthy digestive tract, but it also helps you feel full and satisfied for longer which can help support a healthy weight and lifestyle.

They support your skin’s health

Your skin’s support system, collagen, relies on vitamin C to help prevent damage. This damage comes from many things we come in contact with every day. These including smoke, air pollution, and smoke (firsthand and secondhand), so they can be hard to get away from. Thankfully, the vitamin C found in blueberries can help assist collagen in smoothing out wrinkles and improving overall skin texture so that your skin looks as healthy as it feels!

They’re packed with antioxidants

Antioxidants are important. They help protect your cells against free radicals! In case you’ve never heard of them, they are molecules produced when your body breaks down food or is exposed to tobacco smoke or radiation. They can start a chain of harmful chemical reactions that hurt the cells in your body. Not to worry, blueberries are actually believed to be the highest antioxidant-containing food of all commonly eaten fruits!

Blueberry boosts your brain

As we age, our memory tends to decline and conditions such as Alzheimer’s and dementia become more common. In recent studies, however, blueberries have been found to boost cognitive function and reduce the likelihood of these diseases. We can thank the dense concentration of flavonoids, a group of plant chemicals that give fruits and vegetables their vibrant colors. This chemical has been shown to increase brain activity and blood flow to the brain which makes it a powerful weapon in the fight to treat Alzheimer’s.

This is just a handful of the amazing list of health benefits offered by this power-packed fruit. Check out your local farmer’s market, grocery store, or even your own garden to stock up while they’re ripe! Since washing the fruit actually softens it and makes it overripen more quickly, try opting for an organic option as their thin skin allows for chemicals and pesticides to seep into the fruit. Add them to your smoothies, oatmeals, and yogurts this month and enjoy a healthy, fresh July!

Posted On July 13, 2017 from Unfranchise Blog

Five Beauty Products to get you Bikini Season Ready!

2016-07-06T13:47:00.000-04:00

That’s right ladies, it’s National Bikini Day! And that means summer is officially in full swing. Are you feeling ready to flaunt the hard work you’ve been putting in at the gym in that hot bikini you’ve been eyeing since winter? If not, you are not alone! It seems like no matter how drop dead gorgeous one may be may be, all women have their insecurities rocking a bathing suit nevermind a TWO PIECE! And no matter how much time you spent doing an extra set of squats are if you followed our TLS 21 Day challenge to the T, there are still natural blemishes that may have you feeling a little bikini shy. Well lucky for you, our beauty product developers source only the highest quality formulas with powerful ingredients from all over the globe! Read on to see which beauty products will have you Bikini Day ready in not time!

If you suffer from stretch marks and wrinkles, you’ll want to get your hands on one of our most popular beauty products with amazing results, Pentaxyl! Pentaxyl is a proprietary blend of herbal extracts and the breakthrough formulas of the Matrixyl® Complex and Argireline, which reduce the appearance of wrinkles and furrows, help skin look thicker and firmer, and gives the skin a youthful glow. We’ve seen some of the most dramatic transformations with this revolutionary product! Learn all about Pentaxyl here.

Lumière de Vie Intensive Hand & Body Crème is an intensive rich crème that saturates skin for long-lasting hydration. With nutrient-rich ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil and sunflower seed oil, this powerful crème helps break the cycle of dryness and dehydration to give skin a new softness and suppleness perfect for beach days!

We’re obsessed with Motives Liquid Gold Shimmer this season! It’s a lightweight, liquid shimmer that adds a touch of radiance and a sheer glow to your skin. With the easy-to-use, roll-on applicator, you can create accentuate your eyes, cheeks, shoulders and even down the center of your thighs for slimmer looking legs.

Of course we always recommend using an SPF anytime you plan to be out in the sun. We recommend an SPF of 50 or higher for optimal protection from harmful sun exposure. Try Cellular Laboratories® De-Aging Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50+and apply on your face and body on your bikini days!

Last but certainly not least, if you’re looking for a little more chisel in your physique, particularly in the abdomen area, you can always Contour! Use Motives Color Perfection Quads in a shade slightly darker than the skin where you want to look more toned. Follow this helpful guide by @MakeupMeri on where to contour and highlight to get instant abs! And remember to stay out of the water if you plan to try this technique.

Are you planning on spending time this summer showing off some skin? If so, share with us in the comments below which products you use to get yourself bikini ready!

5 Signs You Might Be Vitamin Deficient

2014-11-19T19:29:00.000-05:00

Do you ever feel like your body is trying to tell you something? Like when you’re feeling a little tired, you may be a bit grumpy or teary eyed. Or when you know you may be on the verge of catching a cold or winter flu, you start feeling sort of lethargic and perhaps get a funny feeling in the back of your throat? Body signals work in ways to do just that – let you know when body functions are there highest and best function, but also give you sign when something is a little off. Staying in tune with your body is essential for keeping everything in top form – from muscles to organs and even your mind. And, being sure you’re getting all the vitamins and nutrients you need is half the battle when it comes to staying in tip top shape. Here’s a look at how your body signals that you’re vitamin deficient – signs to look out for and how to combat with healthy choices and vitamin supplements, if necessary.

1. Do you find yourself getting bad muscle cramps in spots like your toes, the backs of your legs or even the arches of your feet? This could mean you may be lacking in potassium, calcium or even magnesium. Adding almonds, cherries, apples, hazelnuts, squash, leafy greens, bananas and broccoli just might do the trick.

2. Getting the tingles in your feet and hands? It’s pretty wild, but this can be related to a deficiency in B vitamins. Try loading up on pinto, black and kidney beans, while also mixing it up with asparagus, oysters, mussels, eggs and spinach.

3. How about little white or red bumps – often on your buttocks, arms and cheeks? Seems odd, right? You may be a bit deficient in vitamins A, D and perhaps need to increase your essential fatty acid intake. Adding more healthy fats to your diet – found in things like sardines, salmon, walnuts, flax, chia and almonds can easily up the essential fatty acids necessary for staying on top of your game. Leafy greens, bright colored veggies (like bell peppers and carrots) are loaded with vitamin A and often, vitamin D deficiencies can be easily solved with a supplement (talk to your doc about this one).

4. Have you noticed a whole heap of things going a little off with your body? Like dry hair and skin, mood swings and even joint and muscle aches. Any combo of these symptoms could signal a deficiency in vitamin C. From supplements to dietary additions, getting a bit more vitamin C in your diet is pretty easy. Of course, the common citrus fruit (oranges and lemons) are a great source, but vitamin C can also be found in guava, red bell peppers, kiwi, Brussels sprouts and even cantaloupe.

5. Are you noticing little cracks at the corners of your mouth? Well, believe it or not – that may be your body telling you it’s time to get a little more iron and maybe even some zinc and B vitamins. This is an easy fix by switching up your diet just a bit. Try eating more salmon, eggs, tuna and poultry. Adding in some kale, swiss chard, broccoli and bell peppers will even help your body absorb that iron a little better.

No matter what, paying attention to your body is absolutely essential when it comes to staying healthy – you are the only one who knows exactly when something is off or just isn’t quite right. Got questions about these symptoms and how to solve? Definitely talk to your doctor.

The best way to help your body protect itself against Ebola (or any virus or bacteria)

2014-10-16T09:21:00.000-04:00

The best way to help your body protect itself against Ebola
(or any virus or bacteria)

(NaturalNews) With the threat of the Ebola virus spreading, there is a need to understand what natural options are readily available to you in case you don't want to be subjected to conventional medical treatments and infected patients in hospitals. The only proven system to help eradicate the Ebola virus is your body's immune system, and it is of primary importance to start strengthening its response now to give yourself the best chance of successfully fighting off an infection.

Work with your body's natural defenses

The only way to work with your body's natural defenses is to give it what it requires in order to function at optimal performance. Conventional medical wisdom claims that man-made remedies such as vaccines are superior to those provided by nature, but it doesn't take a scientist to understand that the toxic chemicals and preservatives injected into the body along with antigens is not a legitimate way to improve immunity.

To improve your immunity, you must improve your relationship with nature and the medicine it provides, which has been proven to keep people healthy for thousands of years. In this case, a focus on healing foods and herbs that have strong antibacterial and antiviral properties is of primary importance, along with improving immune system function and eliminating foods that suppress it.

Antibacterial foods, herbs, and solutions to begin consuming regularly

Even though Ebola is a virus, it only makes sense to start clearing out any harmful bacteria in your digestive system in order for your immune system to function properly. This will allow it to do its job more efficiently, which is a must have when dealing with more deadly infections such as Ebola.

Antibacterial foods and herbs to consider, include:

Curcumin Extreme

Garlic
Onion
Turmeric (curcumin)
Ginger
Lemon
Cayenne
Peppermint
Cinnamon
Clove
Cranberry
Calendula
Echinacea
Oregon grape root
Goldenseal
Marshmallow root
Uva Ursi
Yarrow
Colloidal silver

Most of these foods and herbs can be used in many different ways in every day meal preparation, but the most potent way to receive their benefits in through tinctures, capsules, teas, essential oils, and freshly pressed juices. A few of them are antiviral as well (like ginger, garlic, cranberry, colloidal silver, and Echinacea).

Stock up on antiviral herbs

In the event that Ebola is found in your region, or you suspect you may have an infection, you may want to consider the following as part of your natural defense:

Una de Gato (Cat's Claw)
Pau D'Arco
Astragalus
Elderberry
Lemon balm
Licorice root
Olive leaf
Oregano oil

These proven virus fighters will provide another layer of protection to your overall immune support plan.

Consume immune strengthening foods, herbs, and nutrients

Along with these foods and herbs, it's also important to consider those things that help solidify a strong immune system, such as:

Adaptogenic herbs (reishi, siberian ginseng, astragalus, gynostemma, una de gato, pau d'arco)
Liver supporting herbs (milk thistle, dandelion root, yellow dock root, burdock root, artichoke, turmeric)
Vitamin C (camu camu, acerola cherry, guava, peppers, kale, oranges)
Vitamin D (sunlight and/or fermented cod liver oil)
Zinc (supplement or pumpkin seeds)
Probiotics (supplement or consider sauerkraut, coconut kefir, apple cider vinegar, and kombucha)

The foods, herbs, and ingestible nutrients listed will provide your immune system with exceptional benefits, and can be consumed in whole food, capsules, tinctures, and tea. Grounding is helpful as well.

Ditch foods and behaviors that suppress the immune system

Another very important factor to unleash your immune system is to stop consuming foods and engaging in behaviors that depress it. The biggest culprits in immune suppression are:

Sugar (especially refined)

Probiotics to create a healthy immune system

Alcohol
Dairy
Corn, soy, and wheat (gluten)
Hydrogenated foods
Excess animal protein
Excess flour intake
Highly processed foods
Chronic stress
Excessive EMF exposure
Limited sunshine or vitamin D supplementation

Improve in all of these areas, and your immune system and energy will reciprocate nicely, both which help your body protect itself against Ebola (and any other viruses or bacteria).

As always, consult with a qualified herbal practitioner or naturopath to determine which herbs and solutions are best for your individual situation. At this time, there is no proven remedy for Ebola, but investing in your immune system and using nature's medicine quite possibly gives you the best route of action.

Learn all these details and more at the FREE online Pandemic Preparedness course at www.BioDefense.com

Sources:

http://www.healingthebody.ca

http://www.healingthebody.ca

http://biodefense.com

http://www.sustainablebabysteps.com

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

http://www.ion.ac.uk

Learn more:http://www.naturalnews.com/047232_Ebola_natural_immunity_virus.html#ixzz3GKrqjDkm

10 Fat-Burning Foods to Add to Your Shopping List

2014-10-13T14:54:00.002-04:00

Fight fat with food simply by picking the right snacks and ingredients. Peta Bee shows you how

Want to lose weight but don’t have the time or the energy to do more at the gym? Then the solution could be to fill your shopping basket with the right fat-burning foods. Here we reveal the top ten foods that are guaranteed to give you a head start in the fat-loss stakes:

GRAPEFRUIT

Remember the grapefruit diet of the 1980s? Well, it wasn’t as faddy as you might think. A study, published in Nutrition & Metabolism showed that a pre-meal snack of grapefruit or grapefruit juice really can boost weight loss. Researchers at Vanderbilt University found that obese adults who consumed half a grapefruit or a glass of 100 per cent grapefruit juice before their three main reduced calorie meals, lost an average 7.1 percent of their body weight - or 15 pounds per person - in 14 weeks.

BLACK PEPPER

When you are asked if you want black pepper sprinkled onto your food, you should always answer ‘yes’. Why? Because Korean scientists reporting in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry showed that piperine - the flavoursome substance that gives black pepper its characteristic taste - can block the formation of new fat cells in the body.

CINNAMON

Add a sprinkle of this spice to your breakfast cereal and coffee every day and you could offset some of the ‘fat’ calories you consume. That was the outcome of a study conducted by Penn State University researchers who showed that cinnamon and turmeric reduces the body’s negative responses to high-fat meals. “Normally, when you eat a high-fat meal, you end up with high levels of triglycerides, a type of fat, in your blood,” said Sheila West, associate professor of biobehavioral health, who led the study. “We found that adding spices to a high-fat meal reduced triglyceride response by about 30 percent.”

EGGS

Long derided as unhealthy, eggs have transformed their image in recent years and are now among the foods most widely accepted to help you shift body fat. Last year, experts at the University of Missouri found that a breakfast rich in protein, such as eggs, significantly improves appetite control and reduces unhealthy snacking on high-fat or high-sugar foods in the evening. Being low in calories (an egg contains only around 75), an egg or two is a great way to fill up without packing on the pounds.

APPLES

When you eat apples, always keep the peel on. Why? Because it is an excellent source of a substance called ‘ursolic acid’ that has been shown to aid fat-burning. Trials on obese rats have shown that those fed ursolic acid (also found in cranberries, rosemary, lavender and prunes) were able to eat more than their counterparts who weren’t given the substance but still lose more weight and gain a greater amount of lean muscle tissue.

GREEN TEA

There have long been rumours that green tea aids weight loss by triggering the body to burn abdominal fat, but can they really be true? Many scientists think so thanks to specific tphytochemicals in green tea called catechins. In 2013 a group of Korean scientists showed how extract of green tea not only aided weight control, but improved symptoms of Type 2 diabetes. Effects were amplified when the green tea was consumed with a compound called polyethylene glycol and researchers said you could easily drink your way to good health by sipping several cups a day.

BLUEBERRIES

Blueberries for health

They are packed with beneficial antioxidant vitamins, but that’s not all you get from eating blueberries regularly. Scientists at the University of Michigan showed that obese rats given meals enriched with blueberries lost fat from their stomachs and, they say, the same could be true for humans. In the study, researchers used freeze-dried blueberries crushed into a powder and added two per cent of the preparation to the animals’ meals. ( try Isotonix Orac or Isotonix OPC-3 ) After 90 days, they had less abdominal fat and lower cholesterol. Benefits were linked to the high level of phytochemicals - naturally occurring antioxidants - contained in the fruit. Why not try Vicki Edgson’s blueberry and almond milk smoothie recipe?

ALMONDS

If you have a snack attack, then you could do worse than opt for some almonds. A team of scientists from Pennsylvania State University looked at the effects of consuming a small handful (30 grams) of almonds compared with a calorie-matched, high carbohydrate snack on body weight in 52 adults with raised cholesterol. After 6 weeks, weight loss did not differ between the two groups, but the almond diet proved to be a fat-buster, reducing overall abdominal fat, and waist circumference compared to the other snack.

CHILLIS

Eating chilli peppers, or even milder red peppers to your menu can actually increase your body’s consumption of calories and “oxidise” layers of body fat, found researchers at the University of California. The ‘heat’ in peppers comes from an active ingredient called capsaicin - the hotter the peppers, the more of it you get. Other trials have shown that capsaicnoids in peppers not only boost fat burning but also trigger the stores of ‘good brown fat’, which gobbles calories, into action.

COFFEE

Marley Coffee - 100% Organic

As long as you take it black, then your coffee could aid fat-burning. But so could cola or another caffeinated drink. Sport scientists have previously shown that caffeine consumption prior to exercise can help the body to utilise fat stores before relying on carbohydrate (glycogen) for fuel. And last year, a paper in PLOS One journal that analysed how cyclists responded to a java jolt found those who drank caffeine or coffee moved almost 5 per cent quicker during a workout than those who hadn’t taken the caffeinated beverage. A greater workout output translates to greater calories burned, so it’s a double winner on the fat-burning front.

HEALTHY IS BEAUTIFUL: 4 FITNESS TIPS TO GET YOU MOVING

2014-06-11T10:13:00.000-04:00

HEALTHY IS BEAUTIFUL: 4 FITNESS TIPS TO GET YOU MOVING

by Loren Ridinger

Quite honestly, I’m an eater, not a mover. I dream about my next delicious meal versus when my next run will be and I always find some excuse to skip my daily workout. Unfortunately, evenings spent lounging on the couch and consuming large amounts of food don’t do my body any favors. But here are some ways that get me motivated to work out that will work for you, too:

1. Write it down and make it visible. Maybe you’d like leaner legs, more toned arms, or to look amazing in your wedding dress; whatever your exercise motivation is, make sure to write it down and post it in a visible spot. For extra inspiration, write the same goals down on several pieces of paper. Take those goals and post them in places you spend a lot of your time (for example, your car, vanity, desk at work, etc.). Additionally, taping these goals to a remote control or the refrigerator may inspire you to turn off the television, put down the cookie, and instead fit a workout into your schedule.

2. Sleep in your workout clothes. If you like to workout in the morning, consider sleeping in your gym clothes. This shaves off a few precious minutes that can be added back into your night of sleep. Also, you will only need to literally roll out of bed and you are already prepared to start your workout. Though I’m not a morning workout person, I can apply the same routine in the evening by packing a gym bag in my car. This leaves me with no excuse to go home after work (at the risk of getting stuck on the couch).

3. Reward yourself with retail therapy. If you’re anything like me, you probably love to shop–maybe even a little too much, if I’m being honest. So, this motivating tip can both save money in your wallet and add a little muscle to your physique. Think of an item that you’ve had your eye on and tell yourself that you cannot purchase it until you’ve consistently exercised over a 6-month span. At the 6-month mark, go ahead and splurge on that item as your reward. Heck, you may even want something different at that point, saving you the money you would’ve spent on that previous goal item.

4. Have an accountability partner. I’ve realized that you don’t have to live in the same place as someone to have him or her hold you accountable. One of my best friends lives across the country, but I’ve asked her to hold me accountable by texting me to ask me about my daily workouts. And I’ll do the same for her. Even just one message, a little nudge, and the thought of that someone checking up on you will keep you motivated to fit in that run or workout DVD.

Is Daily Aspirin Right for You?

2014-05-27T10:33:00.003-04:00

Is Daily Aspirin Right for You?

by Dr. Stephen Sinatra

Early in my career when I was running through hospital halls, coat tails flying behind me, headed to help someone in cardiac arrest—I pondered whether daily aspirin could prevent these types of calamities. It was the 1980s and there wasn’t a hard-working doctor who didn’t worry about having their own heart attack. Knowing that aspirin had the power to thin the blood, many doctors began adding a daily aspirin to their regimen.

Later on, once the efficacy was confirmed, it was decided an 81 mg baby aspirin could replace the hefty 325 mg adult dose. Bayer, the largest producer of aspirin, jumped at the chance to promote its pain reliever as the “wonder drug” in heart attack prevention, even in healthy individuals. Doctors began prescribing it to virtually every patient they had.

Daily Aspirin Increases Bleeding Events

Now, a new meta-analysis of 9 placebo-controlled trials challenges that practice. This month, the Archives of Internal Medicine published data collected from 100,000 people over six years showing that we have to treat 120 people with a daily aspirin to prevent just one nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI).

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The researchers did report that total cardiovascular events decreased by 10 percent. But at the same time there was a 30 percent increased risk for “trivial bleeding events.” Because it took treating just 73 people to trigger that bleeding event, we must think twice about our overzealous use of aspirin.

The Bottom Line on Daily Aspirin

* I don’t recommend an aspirin for primary heart attack prevention. While a daily aspirin prevents clot formation, the final step that triggers a heart attack, it doesn’t change atherosclerotic plaque which is the underlying cause of heart disease.

A far better way to prevent a heart attack is by keeping plaque from forming and building up in the first place. That means back to basics: a healthy diet, exercise, weight reduction, nutritional support with antioxidants and anti-inflammatories, blood pressure lowering, stress reduction
and so on.

* But taking a daily aspirin for secondary heart attack prevention—if you’ve already had a heart attack or have a history of cardiovascular disease—is just plain good medicine. I regularly advocate aspirin for those who have known heart disease, such as a history of angina, heart attack, angioplasty or stent procedures, or coronary artery bypass surgery. In these cases, I recommend taking one baby aspirin daily.

But even if you have all the characteristics I just mentioned that would make you a perfect candidate for a daily preventative aspirin regimen, it won’t do you a lick of good if you’re part of the population known as “aspirin-resistant.” Fortunately, there’s a test to determine if an aspirin a day will work for you.

Healthy Skin From Within

2014-05-15T12:53:00.001-04:00

Healthy Skin From Within

Studies support the idea that nourishing the skin via dietary supplementation yields positive results.by Robert M. Blair , Ph.D., Strategic Research Scientist

Healthy Skin From Within

While it is important to take care of our skin the summer with the application of topical products, taking care of our skin by consuming skin-healthy foods and supplements is also important. Some of the more amusing ingredients to keeping your skin looking and feeling healthy this summer include Pycnogenol, vitamin C, resveratrol and hyaluronic acid.

Pycnogenol

A number of studies have shown that Pycnogenol can support normal skin health. One of the early studies on Pycnogenol reported that supplementation for eight weeks helped the skin resist effects of ultraviolet rays, suggesting that it can help protect the skin from sunburn. Another study reported that consumption of Pycnogenol helped to improve skin hydration and elasticity in postmenopausal women. This was possibly due to an observed increase in the expression of genes involved in the synthesis of collagen.

Vitamin C

Vitamin see is an antioxidant vitamin that is essential for collagen formation. A recent study reported that consumption of Vitamin C could increase the skins ability to scavenge oxidative free radicals, with a dose of 100 mg vitamin C/day increasing this ability by 22% any dose of 180 mg/day increasing this ability by 37 percent. A population-based study reported that higher vitamin C consumption was associated with a lower likelihood of a wrinkled appearance and reduce skin dryness with age. Combining vitamin C supplementation with vitamin D supplementation has been reported to reduce the skins sensitivity to sunlight.

Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a naturally occurring compound found in various fruits, nuts, and berries, but is most abundant in the skin and seeds of grapes. It is April antioxidant it has been reported to have numerous potential health benefits including skin health benefits. Several in vitro and animal studies have reported that resveratrol can suppress UV – induced skin damage when applied topically; however, few clinical studies have examined the skin health benefits of resveratrol supplementation. In one recent study, supplementation with a blend of grape extract (containing 8 mg resveratrol) and pomegranate extract for 60 days resulted in an increase in the skin hydration and elasticity and decrease in skin roughness and wrinkle depth.

Flawless Skin From Within

Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid is one of the major skin matrix substances in which many of the skin's components ( cells, collagen, a lasting, etc.) are embedded, giving structure to the skin. The loss of hyaluronic acid as we age is thought to be partly responsible for wrinkle formation and the loss of elasticity as we get older. To date only a few studies have examined the benefit of dietary consumption of hyaluronic acid on skin appearance; however, the study suggested consumption of hyaluronic acid might help hydrate the skin and give it a smoother appearance. A small pilot study demonstrating that the consumption of a blend of a hydrolyzed collagen type two, low – molecular – wait hyaluronic acid, and chondroitin sulfate lead to a reduction in skin dryness and a reduction in the appearance of wrinkles.

While all of these ingredients are excellent choices for supporting healthy summer skin from within, they are also excellent choices to look for in your topical skin care products. Pre-clinical and clinical studies suggest Pycnogenol, vitamin C, and resveratrol can have anti-aging benefits for the skin and protect the skin from UV induced damage, while hyaluronic acid has been shown to help moisturize the skin at low doses. Combining a topical and dietary approach with skin-healthy ingredients is the ideal approach in order to deliver these ingredients to all the layers of the skin. Learn more here

2014-05-09T16:08:00.000-04:00

New research exposes risk of nutritional
deficiencies in obese teenagers
by Nathan Gray

Teenagers and young adults who are severely obese are at risk of nutritional deficiencies including low iron, anaemia, and a low vitamin D status, find researchers.

The study is believed to be the first study to compare the nutritional status of severely obese teens who did not undergo weight loss surgery to those who did have surgery finding that at leastyears after undergoing gastric bypass surgery, teens and young adults maintained significant weight loss but were at risk of nutritional deficiencies, particularly low iron, mild anemia and low vitamin D.

Isotonix Vitamin D with K2

The team, led by Dr Stavra Xanthakos, director the Surgical Weight Loss Program for Teens at Cincinnati Children's, also found low iron and low vitamin D in severely obese teens who did not undergo weight loss surgery. Those who didn't have surgery also had low levels of protein in their blood.

"We knew there were nutritional difficulties in teens who had undergone bariatric surgery, but everyone thought it was primarily the surgery that caused these problems since gastric bypass excludes the portion of the small intestine where many nutrients, especially iron, are most absorbed," said Xanthakos.

"What this shows us is that nutritional deficiencies occur even in teens who don't undergo surgery. Severely obese patients should be screened for nutritional deficiencies, regardless of whether they've undergone weight loss surgery."

Research details
The researchers studied 79 obese teens who either received weight loss surgery or were evaluated but did not receive surgery. These participants were evaluated between 2001 and 2007 and contacted to participate in the study between 2011 and 2014.

Eight years on average after surgery, the team found that the patients had experienced "durable and significant" weight loss, about 28%, while those who didn't receive surgery had not lost weight.

However, both groups were at risk from nutritional deficiencies, said the team who presented their data at the annual meeting of the Pediatric Academic Societies in Vancouver, Canada.

Indeed, obese teens were found to be at risk from low iron and vitamin D irrespective of whether they received the surgery.

The power of Pycnogenol Infographic

2014-05-07T13:44:00.000-04:00

The power of Pycnogenol Infographic

Controlling diabetes
Relieving arthritis
A healthier heart

7% reduction of LDL bad cholesterol in young healthy adults after six weeks

5.3 reduction fasting blood glucose levels in type two diabetes patients after three weeks

55% of osteoarthritis patients reported decreased pain after three months

10% increase of HDL good cholesterol in young healthy adults after six weeks

56% of osteoarthritis patients who improved physical functions after three months

53% of osteoarthritis patients reported decreased joint stiffness after three months

57% of individuals who cut blood pressure medication in half after eight weeks

Click here to find products that have Pycnogenol

Vitamin D may have direct effect on brain development, social behavior and autism

2014-02-28T14:11:00.001-05:00

Vitamin D may have direct effect on brain development, social behavior and autism

Vitamin D could have a 'critical influence' levels of serotonin in the brain and may directly effect social behaviors associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), according to new research.

Writing in The FASEB Journal, the study suggests that adequate levels of vitamin D may be required to produce serotonin in the brain where it shapes the structure and wiring of the brain, acts as a neurotransmitter, and affects social behavior.

Led by Professor Bruce Ames of Children's Hospital Oakland Research Institute (CHORI) in the US, the study demonstrates that serotonin, oxytocin, and vasopressin three brain hormones that affect social behavior are all activated by vitamin D.

“We present evidence that vitamin D hormone (calcitriol) activates the transcription of the serotonin synthesizing gene tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2) in the brain at a vitamin D response element (VDRE) and represses the transcription of TPH1 in tissues outside the bloodbrain

barrier at a distinct VDRE suggesting a causal link between the sunshine vitamin, serotonin and autism,” wrote Ames and his colleagues.

Isotonix Vitamin D with K2

They noted that autism, which is characterized by abnormal social behavior, has previously been linked to low levels of serotonin in the brain and to low vitamin D levels, but no mechanism has linked the two until now.

Indeed, Ames and his team suggested that their study sheds light on, and offers a mechanism to explain many of the known, but previously not understood facts about autism.

“This mechanism explains how low vitamin D hormone levels result in aberrant serotonin synthesis, subsequently leading to abnormal brain development,” wrote the research team. “Low vitamin D hormone levels during foetal and neonatal development could result in poor TPH2 expression and subsequently reduced serotonin concentrations in the developing brain.”

They added that such a suggestion may mean that adequate vitamin D hormone levels during pregnancy, as well as nutritional intake of tryptophan and vitamin D during early childhood, “may have a critical influence on brain serotonin levels and, thus, on the structure and neural wiring of the brain.”

Learn more here by Nathan Gray

DNA Miracles Natural Soothing Ointment Before and After testimonial

2014-02-27T12:53:00.004-05:00

You need to see these amazing results with the new DNA Miracles Natural Soothing Ointment
– Below you’ll find an amazing testimonial about the DNA Miracles Natural Soothing Ointment, along with some photos that show the dramatic results of this incredible product.

Before

Before DNA Miracles Natural Soothing Ointment

After

After DNA Miracles Natural Soothing Ointment

DNA Miracles Natural Soothing Ointment is a nontoxic formula strong enough to soothe and yet gentle enough for the softest skin. Using natural ingredients like willow herb, shea butter and coconut oil, this ointment protects your child’s sensitive skin while locking in much-needed moisture. DNA Miracles Natural Soothing Ointment helps keep your baby’s skin healthy and hydrated while providing soothing comfort. Try it Here

eGifts for Valentine’s Day

2014-02-13T18:38:00.000-05:00

eGifts for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is TOMORROW! If you’re sitting there stressing that you don’t have a gift yet for your loved one…fret no more! SHOP.COM is here to save the day with our amazing eGifts! It’s never too late to score the perfect gift for whoever you’re shopping for! Read on to learn how SHOP.COM can save Valentine’s Day!

Something for everyone, anytime!
eGifts are the easy and quick gift giving option that are perfect for anyone this Valentine’s Day! With eGifts, you can personally select gifts for your husband, wife, girlfriend or boyfriend; the perfect eGift is waiting for ANYONE you’re shopping for! Choose from millions of products from Market America brands and SHOP.COM OneCart Stores!

Using eGifts is easy!

When browsing for a gift, select ‘OneCart Stores’ from your search results page and choose the gifts you want.
When you view the item, simply click on the right side of the page to add it to your eGift list!
Sign in to your account, click the eGifts link, complete your purchase and send your eGift when you’re ready! It’s that simple!
SHOP.COM will send the gift recipient an e-mail announcing the eGift and you can even add your own personal message to the link. The recipient can then designate where they want their eGift delivered to and it’s on its way soon!

The best part is, this last minute gift is emailed to the recipient with the eGiftannouncement within minutes of the purchase! Don’t stress this Valentine’s Day about finding the perfect gift! We’ve done the work for you! Get your eGift today!

Mass-Marketed Energy Drinks Full Of ... Calories and Sugars

2014-02-13T15:22:00.002-05:00

Mass-Marketed Energy Drinks Full Of … Calories and Sugars

In a world where everything is moving so rapidly, most people are always on the lookout for something to give them a boost. Many have turned to the fast-growing energy drink/energy shot market.

According to market statistics, energy drinks and shots are expected to become a $21.5 billion business by the end of the decade. The promises of instant energy in a convenient form is alluring to many – from teens and college students looking for an extra pick-me-up, to professionals trying to power through their hectic days, and even older adults looking to keep up with the younger generations.
Problem is, most of those energy drinks on the market are offering consumers more than they bargain for; namely, a ton of empty calories and sugars. These products have come into question over the last few months, as health professionals and media outlets have questioned the legitimacy of these mass marketed products.

The Caffeine Issue
No one questions caffeine, in moderation, can have a natural energy-boosting effect. According to a recent study from Johns Hopkins University, caffeine can help the brain retain information during a period of up to 24 hours subsequent to consuming it.You may not know it, but much of the rush you receive from mass-marketed energy products comes from the sugar contained in them. Some top-selling energy products on the market contain as much as 20 grams of sugar – as much as you would find in a regular sized candy bar.Many mass-marketed energy products have another secret: a lot of calories. According to nutritional facts, the most widely-consumed energy drinks on the market today have anywhere between 100 and 220 calories per serving.In that study, participants were asked to study images presented to them and five minutes later received either a placebo or 200 milligrams of caffeine, which is the average daily intake of caffeine in various forms for 80 percent of adult Americans (many health professionals and agencies, including the FDA, state that 400 milligrams of caffeine a day is a safe amount for adults).The caffeinated group was more capable of telling which images were similar to the ones they had viewed, instead of mistaking them as being the same – an ability known as “pattern separation”: being able to recognize difference between similar items, a marker of memory retention. So if the amount of caffeine isn’t the issue, what is?The arguments in this debate center on consumption by teens who are naturally drawn to energy products through mass marketing efforts and endorsement deals with athletes and celebrities. A recent study published in the journal Pediatrics reports that more teens are downing energy drinks; in 2003, 16% regularly consumed the drinks, while in 2008, that percentage jumped to 35%.And it’s not just the consumption of such drinks; it’s the quantities they are consuming. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, adolescents should not consume more than 100 mg of caffeine a day. Just one energy drink nearly doubles that intake, and the addition of sodas and other caffeinated products adds up to an unhealthy amount.

Sugar, Sugar, SugarWhile all that sugar makes these energy products taste better, they come with one major pitfall: Sugar and fructose, both found in energy drinks, spike your insulin level for a brief amount of time, which translates into an infusion of energy. But it is short lived. When the sugar is used up, your insulin level will plummet and you will experience fatigue.According to the Pediatrics journal study, individuals who consume multiple energy drinks daily “could be taking in 120 mg to 180 mg of sugar,” or up to six times the maximum recommended daily intake. According to Men’s Health magazine, one leading energy drink contains nearly as much sugar as six glazed doughnuts. The study’s authors also noted that adolescents who consume energy drinks could be at risk for obesity and dental problems.

Awake Energy Shot

Unwanted Calories Pile Up
Even these companies’ low-calorie or low-sugar options have upwards of 20 calories per serving. Someone who consumes these types of drinks regularly – twice or even three times a day – could be adding nearly 700 calories to their diets, or nearly 35 percent of the USDA’s recommended caloric intake. And that’s without eating.

Possible Option
Awake Energy Shots provide much needed fuel and promote mental focus without the crash later. With 200 milligram of caffeine, combined with amino acids and B-vitamins, Awake Energy Shots provide long lasting physical and mental energy without any sugars or calories found in leading energy products on the market. Take Charge with Awake, available exclusively at SHOP.COM.

Hot Deals for the Holidays Shopping in December 2013

2013-12-06T17:26:00.003-05:00

Hot Deals for the Holiday Shopping in December!

Our partner store team has been working on some great deals to help you make the most of the holiday shopping season with SHOP.COM. We’re hosting an incredible Holiday Giving Extra Cashback Event, with amazing extra cashback deals from stores like Barnes and Nobel, Bloomingdales, Groupon and many more. Leverage the power of SHOP.COM this holiday season with these amazing extra cashback offers! Share them with your friends, family, team, and customers, so they can take advantage of these amazing deals too!

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Bromelain Benefits Have Power to Heal

2013-11-19T18:42:00.001-05:00

Bromelain Benefits
Have Power to Heal

Research suggests that this pineapple-sourced ingredient can help you protect, repair and recover from injury and illness.
By Deedra Mason, N.D., Clinical Faculty Member

Fruits have always brought with them a plethora of health benefits. Vitamins, antioxidants, phytonutrients and more come from just about any fruit imaginable. And yet, science is always finding new, amazing benefits around every corner.

Take the pineapple. Not only is the fruit rich in vitamins and minerals, but its stem contains a mixture of enzymes known as bromelain — one of the most researched ingredients in the nutritional supplement world over recent years thanks to its variety of benefits.

Bromelain Infographic - Try it Here

Healing, Inflammation Benefits
Therapeutic doses of bromelain have been shown to “[reduce] edema, bruising, pain and healing time following trauma and surgical procedures” until the body has completely healed, according to published studies in Alternative Medicine Review.
As a treatment for injuries such as muscle strains and torn ligaments, bromelain proved to be successful in “[reducing] swelling, pain at rest and during movement, and tenderness” while also reducing “effects of unaccustomed exercise and accelerate [the] recovery of muscle tissue.”
Bromelain’s inflammation benefits go beyond sore muscles and exercise, though. Those with sinusitis, an inflammation of the sinus cavity due to infection, allergies or autoimmune issues, have also benefited from bromelain. One study found that 85 percent of individuals who took bromelain “had complete resolution of [sinusitis] and complete resolution of breathing difficulties.”

Arthritis Benefits
Numerous studies have been conducted
on the benefits of bromelain as it relates to arthritis; in particular, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. And, with more than 50 million Americans affected by some form of arthritis, it’s not hard to find someone looking for relief. For many of those people,

bromelain could be a key to rediscovering their old selves.
Researchers have found that bromelain research “looks promising” and “may provide a safer alternative or adjunctive treatment for osteoarthritis.”

One study found that a four-week regimen of bromelain supplementation “resulted in significant decrease in pain and stiffness in patients with knee osteoarthritis.”

Cancer Benefits
Perhaps most promising is bromelain’s potential for cancer patients. This exciting research — while still in its infancy — could provide the basis for new non-invasive treatments that can help millions upon millions struggling with the variety of forms this disease takes on.
For example, research out of Norway has found bromelain demonstrates the ability to “significantly and reversibly reduce adhesion, migration and invasion” of primary brain tumors, or gliomas. The study’s authors wrote that, “to hinder the migration of the invasive glioma cells without negative impact on neighboring bystander cells represents an attractive treatment approach ... [Bromelain] may provide a complementary treatment strategy in combination with surgical removal.”

Another recent study supports the hypothesis that bromelain does more than support
more conventional cancer therapies; rather, it directly affects a specific genetic marker associated with cancerous inflammation. According to researchers, bromelain causes
cancer cells to die while not affecting healthy, outlying cells.
This is due to bromelain’s properties as
a protease enzyme, which helps dissolve non-needed structures, such as scab
material once healing has occurred. Cancer cells “protect” themselves from detection by shielding themselves in a protein layering. Protease enzymes like bromelain help break down that layer, thus making it easier for your body to fight off the cancerous cells. These enzymes activate a so-called “cellular house cleaning” important to the maintenance of cellular health.
The potential benefits of bromelain are astounding. Helping everything from
daily aches and pains to some of modern medicine’s most concerning health conditions, bromelain can provide not only a treatment, but a preventative measure that can keep us healthy day in and day out.

Doubling Daily Intake of Protein Promotes Weight Loss while Saving Muscle- Its a Win Win!

2013-10-01T22:16:00.005-04:00

Doubling Daily Intake of Protein Promotes Weight Loss while Saving Muscle- Its a Win Win!

Typically when people think of weight loss, they think of restricting calories or food groups, such as carbs. And many may think that adding more protein to their diet will pack on muscle, which may lead to weight gain. But in addition to be satiating, increasing your protein intake may help you lose weight while maintaining fat-burning muscle, according to new research.

The latest research, published in the Journal of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology, finds that doubling one’s daily intake of protein will prevent the loss of muscle mass while promoting fat loss during short-term weight loss.

According to researchers at the U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, who conducted the study, the 31-day regimen followed three groups: Those who took the U.S. Recommended Daily Allowance of protein, those who doubled that amount, and those who tripled their protein intake.

What is the RDA of Protein?

Protein RDAs are calculated using 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. A 175-pound man should, according to this calculation, take in approximately 63.5 grams of protein each day.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has simplified the equation into basic requirements. According to the CDC, the average adult man should take in 56 grams of protein a day, while the recommendation for the average adult woman is 46 grams of protein a day.

The Protein Study

After observing all groups and controlling their diet and exercise regimens, they concluded that the group that doubled their RDA saw increased muscle mass and fat-burning benefits compared to the group following the U.S.-recommended protein intake.

The group whose protein intake was tripled did not see added benefit beyond the group that doubled their RDA, researchers concluded. According to lead researcher Dr. Stefan Pasiakos:

We believe that the RDA for protein should be based on a level to optimize health, as well as prevent deficiencies, and our data demonstrate a potential inadequacy of the current RDA for sparing muscle mass during weight loss, which may affect a significant portion of the population.

"The average male and female should be consuming approx 120 grams of protein per day"

Finding it difficult to get your optimal amount of protein? Try a quality shake or bar.

Protein is an integral part of any healthy diet and it should be considered just a diet food we all need protein to give our body the energy to get through the day and it plays an important role in regulating body weight

Protein keeps you full for little longer and keeps your metabolism in high gear.

One other nutrient most people aren't getting enough of is fiber. Fiber goes far beyond digestion and regularity - fiber rich complex carbohydrates such as fruits vegetables and whole grains keeps us feeling full for longer.

Fiber stabilizes your blood sugar and gives you longer-lasting energy but not only that but fiber can help maintain healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels those are just some the reason is important to get enough protein and fiber throughout the day. Unfortunately that's not happening for most of us because we are eating convenience foods that are sorely lacking in protein and fiber.

GLUTEN FREE

Many people are gluten sensitive and many others who can benefit from reducing the amount of gluten they consume. Gluten is the sticky substance in wheat and other products responsible for the elastics texture of dough that can draw water out of the intestines and feed bacteria in the intestines that can cause gas, bloating and indigestion.

Gluten even a mild sensitivity to it has been shown to spark systemic inflammation. Even the smallest amount of gluten can have a prolonged inflammatory effect in the body if you're sensitive. Traditionally eating gluten-free means cutting back on fiber intake from whole grains or missing out on vitamins you normally get from fortified foods

Choice Protein Bars

That's what's so great about Choice Bars.

----- not only are they gluten-free but they give you the protein and fiber you need

it's absolutely a win-win

Get your protein and lose the weight while saving your muscles.

Ingredients That Improve Bone-Joint Health

2013-09-21T14:18:00.001-04:00

Ingredients That Improve Bone-Joint Health

Bone and joint health is one of the most common areas of health that people deal with on a daily basis. The numbers back it up:

The CDC reports that 30 percent of Americans experience some type of joint pain each month. That number increases depending on who’s doing the reporting.
One in five people suffer from chronic pain and the same amount, according to the CDC, have been diagnosed with arthritis by their doctor.
By 2030, an estimated 67 million Americans ages 18 years or older are projected to have doctor-diagnosed arthritis.

These statistics have led to a surge in the bone & joint health industry, as experts predict that the sale of bone and joint supplements will exceed $9 billion globally by 2017. This booming market has led researchers to identify the top ingredients for bone and joint health – not from a marketing perspective, but to let the public know what actually works to help improve your bone and joint health.

Outside of calcium and vitamin D – long proven to benefit your bones – there are a multitude of ingredients and products claiming to improve your bone and joint health. So what works? Recently, the experts weighed in, and here’s what they found:

Vitamin K: The correlation of vitamin K to cardiovascular and bone health directly focuses on supporting proper calcium utilization. Known as the calcium paradox, it simply means getting calcium in the right place: into the structure of the bone structures instead of the artery walls). One particular form of vitamin K – vitamin K2 – promotes the synthesis of proteins involved with calcium utilization, thereby supporting bone retention and arterial health.

Magnesium: According to researchers, up to 80 percent of people do not get enough magnesium. This can have a lasting effect on bone & joint health, as magnesium is a critical component of the mineralized part of bone and supports the normal metabolism of potassium and calcium in adults. Magnesium – the fourth most abundant mineral in the body – also supports more than 300 enzyme systems, including nerve function, adaptation to stress, metabolism and more.

Glucosamine: Naturally produced by the body and a key component of cartilage, glucosamine is concentrated in joint cartilage, and has been scientifically proven to support healthy joint function and promote the normal production of synovial fluid, which lubricates your joints and regenerates cartilage.

Omega 3s: We’ve written about the benefits omega 3 fatty acids have on inflammation before, and the bone and joint health industry is catching up. The American Heart Association has recommended omega-3 fatty acids to reduce the risk of inflammation not just to improve your heart health, but your overall health, as well.

One ingredient the experts failed to mention that has been shown to help the body’s inflammatory response is Pycnogenol. Research has shown that Pycnogenol – a water-soluble, flavonoid complex extracted from the bark of the French Maritime Pine tree – may inhibit the activation of NF-kappa B and AP-1, both of which are proinflammatory mediators. In addition, studies have shown the ability of Pycnogenol to cross-link collagen fibers and strengthen connective tissue proteins.

Probiotics, Cholesterol and Heart Health

2013-08-28T22:32:00.000-04:00

Probiotics, Cholesterol and Heart Health

Posted by Dr. Mark Lange

The World Health Organization (WHO) predicts that, by 2030, cardiovascular diseases will affect approximately 23.6 million people around the world. High blood cholesterol is a factor in 45 percent of heart attacks in Western Europe and 35 percent of heart attacks in Central and Eastern Europe. Heart attack risk is three times higher in those with hypercholesterolemia, compared to those who have normal blood lipid profiles.

The Pros of Probiotics Infographic

Keeping blood cholesterol levels within normal ranges typically includes exercise, monitoring dietary intake and drug therapy. However, pharmaceutical agents to control cholesterol are expensive, often suboptimal and have negative side effects.

Cholesterol is made in the liver from bile, stored in the gallbladder, and released into the upper portion of the small intestine after food intake. Bile acts as a biological detergent, used to emulsify and solubilize dietary lipids. Bile is made from cholesterol, and any in fact, about half of the bodys cholesterol is used to make bile. Under normal conditions, bile is reabsorbed into the bloodstream from the intestinal tract and taken up by the liver.

Probiotic bacteria – especially Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Enterococcus and Clostridium– produce enzymes that convert bile into a less soluble form which is excreted in feces before reabsorption into the bloodstream. Replacement bile, lost in excretion, is then replenished by drawing upon serum cholesterol as the building material; leading to a reduction in serum cholesterol. Oral administration of probiotics has shown to reduce cholesterol levels by as much as 33 percent in animal and human studies. These cholesterol-lowering effects can be partially ascribed to bile salt hydrolase (BSH) activity.

Here is an abbreviated list of bacteria having demonstrated ability to lower serum cholesterol through BSH activity in randomized controlled trials. There are dozens of bacterial species having BSH activity, but to be used as a probiotic, it must be safe for human ingestion and have tolerance of physiological stresses: e.g., low pH, osmolarity change and bile.

Bifidobacterium breve
B. infantis
B. longum
Lactobacillus acidolphilus
L. casei
L. fermentum
L. rhamnosus
L. plantarum

The cholesterol reducing effect of probiotics is also attributed to their ability to bind with cholesterol in the small intestine. In vitro studies reveal that the capacity to bind cholesterol and the amount of cholesterol assimilated varies widely among strains. Interestingly, although live bacteria remove more cholesterol than dead cells, heat-killed cells also will remove some cholesterol, indicating that cholesterol binds to the cellular surface.

Increasingly, it is being demonstrated that many aspects of general health begin and reside in the metabolic processes surrounding digestion. The benefits of probiotic activity in relation to cholesterol levels is one such example.

Did you know...

"Oral administration of probiotics has shown to REDUCE CHOLESTEROL LEVELS BY AS MUCH AS 33%"- in animal and human studies.

What Makes NutriClean® Probiotics Unique?

NutriClean Probiotics

Diversity of strains, total bacterial count and protection of the probiotics are key elements in a powerful probiotic product. The digestive tract is home to 400-500 different types of microbes. These microbes include both healthy bacteria (probiotics) and potentially unhealthy bacteria. Maintaining optimal digestive and immune health depends in large part on maintaining optimal bacterial balance within the digestive tract. With such tremendous diversity naturally present in the digestive tract, it is important to supplement with not just one strain, but numerous strains of probiotics, so that the most comprehensive benefit is received.

Many products on the market deliver a high total probiotic count, but they are only coming from one or two strains. These practices yield products which do not deliver comprehensive support. According to research published in Food Research International, probiotic products which deliver multiple strains can offer more benefits than a single strain. Market America’s NutriClean Probiotics delivers 10 billion CFUs from 10 different strains with patented LiveBac® and Bio-tract® technologies to help keep the probiotics viable during both bottling and throughout the digestive process.*

Each strain has a unique purpose and the strains work synergistically to support numerous areas of health from immunity to stomach comfort and bowel regularity. Your body is a bacterial battlefield. As with a true battle, there may be lots of different types of good guys and lots of different types of bad guys. On “Good Guys Team” (NutriClean Probiotics), you have the Army, Navy, Marines and Air Force. Each component of the team brings a unique area of expertise and, working together, they achieve their goal. When your good guys are outnumbered, you don’t want to just bring in more Navy, you need a variety of strong, capable resources with unique talents.

“The Good Guys Team” (NutriClean Probiotics) are 10 carefully selected bacterial strains – six lactobacilli strains and four bifidobacterium strains – each with a unique role to help your body maintain bacterial balance and optimal digestive health.

2013-07-31T16:25:00.000-04:00

ShopBuddy Makes Online Shopping Simple!

ShopBuddy is an incredible feature on SHOP.COM that makes finding the best deals online a piece of cake. Recently we’ve made some new updates and enhancements to this great tool which will help make your shopping experience with us even better!

We’ve got a new video to help explain how ShopBuddy works, and how you can use this incredible feature to make the most of your online shopping experience! Downloading ShopBuddy is quick and easy, and can really help you save money when shopping online.

Have a look at this great video below, and make sure to share it with your friends, family and help them save big!

Dr. Oz: Fight Wrinkles With Alpha Hydroxy Acids

2013-07-30T13:58:00.000-04:00

Watch Dr. Oz to see how it works

Dr Oz talking about it...

Before you waste your money on expensive creams and lotions you need to exfoliate your skin. This is the best way to exfoliate your skin
Alpha Hydroxy Acids work by removing the top layers of dead skin. Watch Dr. Oz to see how this helps reduce wrinkles and restores your youthful look. This is one of the most important anti aging moves your can make.

Fight Wrinkles With Alpha Hydroxy Acids!

Timeless Prescription Advanced Hydroxy Face Peel and Neutralizer is a two-step process that removes dead skin cells, and provides an antioxidant defense that leaves skin looking smoother, younger and healthier. The peel combines powerful alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids with vitamins A, C and E, and herbal extracts to exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin. Green tea extract and chamomile soothe the skin after the peel in the antioxidant-packed neutralizer.

Timeless Prescription

Primary Benefits of Timeless Prescription® Advanced Hydroxy Face Peel and Neutralizer:

Promotes smoother, younger, healthier-looking skin
Supports skin thickness
Preserves skin’s water balance
Soothes skin
Combats negative effects of pollution and UV rays
4.0 pH is optimized for maximum effectiveness and safety
Measured dose pads provide accurate application
Applicator pads are disposable and hygienic
Promotes even skin tone, minimizing the look of discoloration
Increases radiance by removing skin-dulling dead surface cells
Visibly reduces pore size and may help prevent breakouts by supporting normal oil production
Promotes clean, even, firm texture
Provides professional-quality exfoliation
Face peel removes dead skin
Neutralizer helps give skin a smooth, healthy appearance

CustomizeME

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National Blueberry Month: 5 Reasons to Celebrate

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GRAPEFRUIT

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APPLES

GREEN TEA

BLUEBERRIES

ALMONDS

CHILLIS

COFFEE

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Bromelain Benefits Have Power to Heal

Research suggests that this pineapple-sourced ingredient can help you protect, repair and recover from injury and illness. By Deedra Mason, N.D., Clinical Faculty Member

Doubling Daily Intake of Protein Promotes Weight Loss while Saving Muscle- Its a Win Win!

Doubling Daily Intake of Protein Promotes Weight Loss while Saving Muscle- Its a Win Win!

Ingredients That Improve Bone-Joint Health

Ingredients That Improve Bone-Joint Health

Probiotics, Cholesterol and Heart Health

Probiotics, Cholesterol and Heart Health

Dr. Oz: Fight Wrinkles With Alpha Hydroxy Acids

New research exposes risk of nutritional
deficiencies in obese teenagers
by Nathan Gray

Research suggests that this pineapple-sourced ingredient can help you protect, repair and recover from injury and illness.
By Deedra Mason, N.D., Clinical Faculty Member