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Beauty Bliss Balls with Collagen + Elastin
Enjoy these decadent dark chocolate truffles as part of your beauty routine. Just one bite ignites bliss and pleasure while you know you’re doing something good for your body and skin. The Bliss Balls contain antioxidant-rich ingredients, including cacao and almonds, to nourish and protect the skin. They’re also a delicious way to take your daily Body Kitchen Collagen + Elastin Powder to firm, hydrate, and enhance skin health.
Is Loose Skin A Side Effect Of New Weight Loss Drugs?
Everywhere you turn these days you see ads, articles and stories about the weight loss revolution known as semaglutide, the active ingredient behind all the big name drugs. With a powerful assist from pharma, this diabetes drug for weight loss is a hot topic of conversation – and debate – no matter whether or not you struggle to shed and keep off the pounds. An astounding 70% of U.S. adults – 2 out of 3 people – are overweight or obese.* In 2023 alone, an estimated 1.7% of Americans were prescribed semaglutide in an effort to sustainably manage weight.* Those who have found a sense of liberation from carrying excess weight consider semaglutide to be a life-changing miracle, without which they could not achieve or sustain double-digit weight loss with relative ease compared to diet, exercise and willpower alone. According to a study published in the medical journal, Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, 80-95% of patients struggle to maintain lasting results with traditional weight loss methods.* Semaglutide for weight loss Understandably, if you frequently find yourself on the losing end of a hard-fought battle of the bulge, it gets tiresome to follow the same ‘eat less, exercise more’ prescription, making weight loss drugs highly desirable. Then there are the countless others hoping to benefit from this novel era of obesity treatments who soon realized that the unpleasant side effects stymied their results. And for some people, these incredible new weight loss drugs are not worth the unknown risks. Whether you are currently on semaglutide for weight loss, or you have lost significant weight and are wondering if loose skin is a known semaglutide side effect, let’s explore the ins and outs of this popular and groundbreaking weight loss drug. → What is Semaglutide? Semaglutide is an injectable antidiabetic drug used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes under well-known branded names. In June 2021, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approved the active ingredient for chronic weight management.* This new application emphasizes the importance of approaching obesity as a metabolic disease rather than placing the responsibility – and blame – solely on individuals who fail to control their condition solely through behavior and lifestyle modifications. → How Does Semaglutide Work? The active ingredient mimics a substance that your body produces and releases in the gut in response to eating – glucagon peptide-1 (GLP-1). When you eat, GLP-1 cues the release of insulin to keep blood sugar levels stable.* As a glucagon-like peptide-1, semaglutide activates the brain centers that suppress appetite, communicate fullness signals to the gut, and regulate metabolism, supporting steady and sustained weight loss .** → Is Semaglutide Safe? Clinical trials observing the effects of semaglutide for weight loss lasted 68 weeks or more.* In addition to significant reductions in body weight, participants experienced benefits in blood sugar levels, blood pressure and other risk factors.* While cardiometabolic effects have been shown to be positive, the overall long-term safety of taking semaglutide remains unknown. If you’re wondering whether a diabetes drug for weight loss would be safe and effective for a non-diabetic, the answer is yes. But, as other studies have indicated, participants tend to regain the weight when they go off the medication, suggesting that it’s only as effective as the consistency of usage.* → Side Effects of Semaglutide As with any drug, the use of semaglutide injections comes with mild to severe adverse effects, as well as rare but serious allergic reactions and other outcomes. Semaglutide’s side effects are commonly known to be related to gastrointestinal distress, such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.* This is especially the case at the beginning of treatment as the body starts to respond to the chemical. More seriously, the use of GLP-1 substances may also be associated with acute pancreatic and thyroid cancer, which the FDA has issued warnings about.* While year-long studies show the long-term benefit for weight loss and cardiovascular factors, semaglutide’s long term side effects may include the risk of serious conditions that can affect the pancreas, gallbladder and thyroid. People taking semaglutide for weight loss may experience:* GI disturbances Dizziness Fatigue Headache Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) Pancreas, gallbladder or thyroid issues SIDE EFFECTS OF weight loss Freeing yourself from substantial weight and achieving a healthy body you can feel good about is the ultimate gift you can give yourself. Not only does confidence rise from looking your best, but the improvements in health markers such as blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels are to be celebrated, too. Rapid and significant changes to the body, however, may introduce new challenges and side effects that you may not have expected. → Greater Risk for Gallstone Formation The yo-yo effect of crash dieting and weight cycling – causing you to lose and regain weight repeatedly – can lead to you developing gallstones. Just as carrying extra weight can lead to higher levels of cholesterol in bile, which is stored in the gallbladder, losing weight quickly can interfere with proper emptying of bile.* Regardless of whether you are on semaglutide for weight loss, experts recommend maintaining regular exercise to help reduce your chances of getting gallstones. → Excessive Loss of Lean Body Mass When you lose weight, you don’t just lose body fat – you lose lean, fat-burning muscle tissue. An excessive decline in lean muscle may increase the risk of sarcopenia, an age-related condition that reduces muscle and metabolic function, strength and stamina.** To combat the effects, incorporate strength-training and a high-protein diet into your daily weight management routine. → Water and Electrolyte Imbalance Losing body mass rapidly can lead to dehydration and disrupt the balance of minerals that are involved in vital cellular processes throughout the body. Key electrolytes are sodium, calcium, magnesium and potassium. If you participate in high-intensity workouts to lose fat and inches, you could lose 2-6% of your body weight in water, affecting the concentration of electrolytes.* Also, a high-protein, low-carb diet can cause an electrolyte deficiency, because high-carb foods are often enriched with minerals. → Elevated Uric Acid Levels Uric acid is a by-product of the body breaking down certain food chemicals, called purines. When uric acid accumulates, it crystalizes in the joints, leading to painful inflammation. Normally, weight loss helps to reduce levels of uric acid. But some of the side effects associated with losing weight rapidly, as well as taking a diabetes drug for weight loss, can lead to higher than healthy levels of uric acid. Triggers can include dehydration from digestive issues such as diarrhea, and kidney issues.** → Loose or Sagging Skin Having loose skin after weight loss is probably the most emotional side effect as it may overshadow the accomplishment of losing weight, and breed a sense of insecurity. There’s a misconception that semaglutide-based drugs change the features of the face and even the shape of the buttocks. This is misplaced blame, however. A saggy face, butt and other parts of the body are not caused by the chemical compounds – they’re side effects of weight loss. Droopy skin after rapid weight loss is normal and common, which is precisely what you would experience when taking weight loss drugs, but the ketogenic diet and bariatric weight loss can cause loose skin, too. The dermis, skin’s firm structural middle layer, is comprised of rows of cross-linked collagen pillars that provide strength and sturdiness, along with strands of spiraling elastin fibers that recoil and return to their original state when stretched. With their high tensile strength, elastin coils are 5X stretchier than a rubber band.* Another difference between collagen and elastin is volume. As the body’s dominant protein, collagen accounts for 70-80% of skin’s dry weight, whereas elastin makes up only about 2-4%.*** Together, these two power proteins achieve the perfect balance between strength, mechanics and durability. HOW TO avoid Loose Skin when losing weight Double and triple-digit weight loss can leave you with stretched, excess skin as a result of damage to elastic tissue losing its ability to recoil. Gradual weight reduction allows elastin fibers time to take the new shape of the tissues underneath. But with extreme and rapid weight fluctuations, the flexible fibers lose their ability to contract, making it difficult to avoid loose skin after weight loss, as well as getting rid of loose skin. This doesn’t mean you’re entirely powerless, however. In fact, you can manage loose skin on your face, buttocks, neck, stomach, arms and legs by replenishing the elastin protein that connective tissues need to rehabilitate skin elasticity and help restore healthy function. How to Improve Skin Elasticity The process that skin goes through to adjust to new conditions is dramatic. You can aid the process of promoting skin elasticity, starting with rebuilding and replenishing the amino acids that bond to form elastin protein. Amino acids are the biological building blocks of protein with individual profiles and sets of instructions for forming protein-based structures. There are 20 amino acids that make up protein, but just four compose over 75% of elastin – glycine, proline, valine and alanine.* Protein intake through food supplies the amino acids you need to synthesize and protect both elastin and collagen proteins. Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, beans and legumes make excellent skin elasticity boosters. Top sources of pure, concentrated elastin and collagen are bone broth made with real bone marrow, as well as fish and chicken skin. For maximum impact, pair dietary protein with a variety of fruits and vegetables to supply key vitamin and minerals that promote protein production, while simultaneously increasing the amount of nutrients you absorb. elastin supplements for skin elasticity There are many collagen supplements and protein powders available on the market supplying a range of sources, from bovine to marine. But elastin supplements offer the most powerful direct source of elastin protein to help support skin elasticity after weight loss. A pure, potent and high-quality elastin supplement increases your daily intake of elastin protein, helping to support skin’s appearance and healthy function. Adding an elastin supplement to your daily weight management helps fortify the elastin content that skin needs to snap back. And, not only do you restock the elastin-specific amino acids needed to reinforce loose fibers, you simultaneously stimulate natural elastin production to form new elastic tissue. This combination of repairing and renewing offers a powerful nutritional option for managing sagging skin. what to look for in an elastin supplement For a high-quality elastin supplement to help visibly tighten loose skin after weight loss, consider Body Kitchen Pro Elastin, a scientifically supported nutritional formula that harnesses the purity and potency of one of the world’s top sources of elastin supplementation – fish – and as a result has become the #1 brand in elastin supplements. As you discovered earlier, pure elastin protein is not plentiful in our standard diet. Through a relationship with France’s largest sea port, Body Kitchen can source pure elastin peptides in a scientifically advanced form, called Prolastin®. Using a proprietary enzymatic process, the fresh marine elastin is extracted without the use of harsh chemicals as is often used to remove protein peptides. The benefit of this unique elastin is that the body can easily digest and use the building blocks efficiently to support skin elasticity and help recontour skin at the cellular level. This potent elastin supplement supplies 1,000 mg of fresh marine elastin peptides that are backed by science and deliver optimal benefits without added bulk from additives and unnecessary fillers. Through a daily ritual of diet, exercise, hydration and supplementation, you can take steps to help improve your post-weight loss shape so you can focus on appreciating all that your new healthy body has to offer.
What Are the Benefits of Bacopa Monnieri?
The Bacopa monnieri plant is an herb that has been used as part of Ayurvedic medicine (an ancient Indian medical system that utilizes natural, often herbal, remedies) for thousands of years. Ayurvedic medicine practitioners have used various forms of Bacopa extract to enhance memory and learning, as a remedy for epilepsy, and as a sedative, among other purposes. In fact, Ayurveda classifies Bacopa as “Medhya rasayana,” which is a group of medicinal plants that support memory and intellect. More recently, research has begun to reveal a scientific basis for many of Bacopa monnieri’s health benefits, which may be attributable to a group of potent, bioactive phyochemical compounds known as “bacosides.” Bacopa Monnieri Benefits The likely benefits of Bacopa monnieri are extensive, and include the following positive effects: Packed With Antioxidants Bacopa monnieri is thought to be full of antioxidants, a group of substances that neutralize and reduce the damage caused by free radicals, which may contribute to debilitating and even deadly chronic conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. More specifically, the antioxidant bacosides in Bacopa seem to prevent a process called lipid peroxidation from taking place. Lipid peroxidation occurs when free radicals and fat molecules react with one another. This process has been associated with neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. However, a systematic review of randomized controlled trials showed that Bacopa does not have particular benefits for Alzheimer’s disease, but has also acknowledged that larger studies in humans are needed to better understand the herb’s effects on these kinds of neurological diseases. May Reduce Inflammation Although inflammation is a necessary part of the body’s mechanisms for healing, chronic inflammation is associated with chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and more. Thus, the fact that test-tube and animal studies found that Bacopa monnieri seems to inhibit the cytokine molecules and enzymes that lead to pain, and inflammation is promising. In fact, animal studies found that Bacopa’s anti-inflammatory benefits were similar to indomethacin, which is a prescription drug that treats inflammation. However, more studies of Bacopa are needed to confirm that these anti-inflammatory effects carry over to humans. May Enhance Brain Function There is quite a bit of evidence to support Bacopa monnieri’s beneficial effect on brain function. For instance, a study of the herb’s effect on rats demonstrated that it increased the rat’s ability to hold onto and recall information as well as their spatial learning. These benefits were further confirmed when the study found that Bacopa increased the length and branching of dendrites, which are nerve cells in the brain that are essential for learning/memory functions. Studies in humans also show that Bacopa monnieri may be beneficial for brain function. A 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of healthy adults found that taking Bacopa monnieri on a daily basis increased memory, rate of learning, and speed of processing visual information. Likewise, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of elderly adults showed that daily use of Bacopa extract improved their memory and information processing. May Alleviate ADHD Symptoms Taking Bacopa monnieri may also alleviate symptoms of ADHD, although more studies are needed to confirm this effect. Early research is promising however, with a six-month study finding that 85 percent of children who took Bacopa monnieri daily had fewer ADHD symptoms (e.g., impulsivity, lack of self-control, hyperactivity, etc.). May Reduce Anxiety and Stress Bacopa monnieri is known as an adaptogen, which means that it reduces stress and increases one’s ability to cope with stressful situations. It may have this effect by lowering levels of cortisol, an important stress hormone. Although a study of Bacopa’s anti-anxiety properties in rodents found that it was comparable in efficacy to lorazepam, a powerful anti-anxiety drug, the results of human studies of these effects are inconsistent. One human study found that taking Bacopa twice a day for four weeks lowered rates of anxiety and stress levels, but another found no anti-anxiety effect. Further studies in humans are needed to clear up this discrepancy. May Lower Blood Pressure High blood pressure is associated with higher rates of cardiovascular disease, so the fact that Bacopa monnieri may help to lower blood pressure means that it may also help to prevent the development of heart conditions. An animal study found that Bacopa reduced blood pressure by releasing nitric oxide, dilating blood vessels and thereby lowering blood pressure. Although a recent study confirmed this effect in humans, an older study found no effect from Bacopa on blood pressure levels. Therefore, more human studies are needed to determine whether Bacopa monnieri is a useful treatment for high blood pressure. May Have Anticancer Properties Although research on Bacopa monnieri’s anticancer properties has been limited to in vitro (test-tube) and animal studies, their results have thus far been promising. These studies have found that Bacopa’s antioxidant bacosides can inhibit the growth of or even kill cancer cells. Further studies of Bacopa monnieri’s effect on cancer in humans are needed to understand the nature of its benefits. What Are Some Other Names for Bacopa Monnieri? Bacopa monnieri is also known by a number of other names: brahmi, water hyssop, thyme-leaved gratiola, herb of grace, and Indian pennywort. Note that some of these names, such as “water hyssop,” may also refer to related plants, such as Bacopa caroliniana. Who Should Not Take Bacopa Monnieri? Bacopa monnieri is generally believed to be safe for most people, but some people might experience side effects of Bacopa monnieri and should be especially careful. Bacopa monnieri side effects may include dry mouth as well as digestive symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramping. Use of Bacopa monnieri has not been studied in pregnant or lactating women, so those groups should avoid supplementing with it. Similarly, Bacopa monnieri can interact with some medications, so it’s important to speak with a doctor before beginning to take it if you are on any prescription medications. For example, it may interact with amitriptyline and alter the drug’s effects. Bacopa Monnieri Supplements Bacopa monnieri supplements may be consumed in a number of different forms, such as powders and capsules. The average Bacopa monnieri dosage ranges from about 300 to 450 mg daily but may be higher or lower depending on the condition being treated. One of the best supplements containing Bacopa is Body Kitchen Total Brain, in which this potent herb is combined with several other natural extracts with cognition-supporting benefits. Total Brain Body Kitchen Total Brain contains a combination of three potent ingredients in each two-capsule daily dose: 320 mg of Synapsa®: A form of Bacopa monnieri extract, Synapsa® benefits are supported by six clinical studies. The 320 mg of Bacopa extract in each dose has been shown to improve working memory by four times as compared to placebo. 100 mg of CognatiQ®: This dose of whole-fruit coffee berry extract provides plenty of neuroprotective polyphenols and is thought to stimulate brain activity associated with learning by 143 percent. 65 mg of Brainberry®: This form of Aronia berry extract is high in anthocyanins that support brain function and eye health. It may even improve hand-eye coordination after six weeks of supplementation. The benefits of this combination of ingredients may include improving memory and cognition, supporting concentration, boosting creativity/productivity, and promoting eye and brain health.
Calcium Fructoborate Supplement Benefits
What Is FruiteX-B® Calcium Fructoborate? FruiteX-B® is a patented synthetic form of calcium fructoborate, which is a compound that contains a combination of boron, fructose, and calcium. It is also known as a “sugar borate,” with one boron atom attached to several sugar molecules. The compound is found naturally in a variety of plant-derived foods, but in its synthetic form, it is commonly included in supplements that treat joint pain and improve mobility, as it is estimated to improve joint comfort by roughly 87 percent. FruiteX-B® has over a decade of published, peer-reviewed research backing its safety and efficacy as a means of managing joint pain and discomfort, particularly when taken consistently for at least 90 days. Further research suggests that calcium fructoborate may have even more significant benefits, including reducing overall inflammation, improving symptoms of osteoporosis, supporting cancer therapy, and balancing blood lipid levels without major risk of side effects. Comparing Calcium Fructoborate to Common Minerals Before diving into the benefits of calcium fructoborate, let’s establish exactly how it differs from its two main mineral components: calcium and boron. Is Calcium Fructoborate the Same as Calcium? No, calcium fructoborate is not the same as calcium. Rather, the former is a compound made up of calcium as well as boron and fructose. On average, calcium fructoborate contains roughly 5 percent calcium, as well as about 3 percent boron and 84 percent fructose. Is Calcium Fructoborate the Same as Boron? Comparing calcium fructoborate vs. boron, the two substances are distinct but related. As previously stated, calcium fructoborate contains only 3 percent boron, but the compound is a good source of soluble and bioavailable boron when taken in supplement form. What Foods Contain Calcium Fructoborate? Although calcium fructoborate can be synthesized from a combination of crystalline fructose, boric acid, and calcium carbonate, the compound can also be found naturally in many foods. Foods that contain calcium fructoborate include numerous fresh and dried fruits, vegetables, legumes, and herbs, as well as wine. Benefits of FruiteX-B®: What Can Calcium Fructoborate Do for the Body? A calcium fructoborate supplement such as FruiteX-B® may support the body’s ability to fend off several common and often debilitating chronic conditions. Calcium fructoborate benefits are thought to include reducing one’s risk of developing the following illnesses: Inflammation and Osteoarthritis Lab-based studies have shown that calcium fructoborate is an antioxidant, which means it may help to protect cells from the effects of oxidation by scavenging free radicals that could otherwise contribute to inflammation and, in the long run, chronic illness. This effect is also thought to carry over into the body. Similarly, a high-quality (i.e., double-blind, placebo-controlled) study found that just two weeks of supplementing with calcium fructoborate reduced inflammatory markers in patients with osteoarthritis. Another well-designed study showed that supplementing with calcium fructoborate reduced pain levels and increased functionality in patients with knee discomfort. Bone Health Because boron deficiency is thought to cause bone loss, adequate boron intake is also thought to be very important to support bone health. Thus, consuming boron via calcium fructoborate may contribute to increased bone health. More specifically, the compound may protect against bone loss through its effect on steroid hormones (i.e., estrogen and testosterone) as well as its effect on metabolism of the minerals such as calcium that make up bones. Cancer Risk Although research on the anticarcinogenic (anti-cancer) effects of calcium fructoborate is still in its early stages, the results have been promising thus far. For instance, in 2016, an in-vitro study of the effects of calcium fructoborate on metastatic breast cancer cells found that the compound may have benefits both for preventing and for treating cancer. Likewise, a 2022 study of the effects of calcium fructoborate on colon cancer cells found that the compound may prevent colon cancer from growing by inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death) and autophagy (when the body intentionally breaks down and “recycles” the components of cells). Athletic Performance Because calcium fructoborate is thought to reduce joint pain and stiffness, taking it as a supplement may increase athletic performance, by reducing muscle damage and improving recovery from exertion. Side Effects of Calcium Fructoborate Although calcium fructoborate is safe for most people to take as directed, it still has the potential to cause side effects. The most frequent side effects of FruiteX-B® are digestive distress, dizziness, and headaches. How To Use FruiteX-B® Calcium Fructoborate The easiest and most effective source for one’s daily dose of calcium fructoborate is Body Kitchen’s ProMobility, which contains FruiteX-B® calcium fructoborate as well as several other highly effective joint health supplements—with the optimal amounts of each ingredient contained in just two convenient capsules. How ProMobility Works Body Kitchen ProMobility may support joint health by reducing breakdown of cartilage in the joints, activating the body’s own natural ability to regrow and renew its’ tissues, and minimizing debilitating symptoms such as stiffness and pain. The supplement’s positive effects may be attributable to its neutralization of inflammatory enzymes that cause cartilage, connective tissue, and other joint components to deteriorate. The result is thought to be improved comfort as well as increased overall flexibility and range of motion, which means a greater ability to enjoy active pursuits Additional Ingredients in Body Kitchen ProMobility In addition to FruiteX-B® calcium fructoborate, Body Kitchen ProMobility also contains two other potent ingredients that have been shown to combat inflammation and offer other notable health benefits: New Zealand Green-Lipped Mussels New Zealand green-lipped mussels are freeze-dried to maintain their freshness and maximize the potency of the extract’s combination of bioactive marine proteins, minerals, and lipids, which may help to reduce joint inflammation. At this time, researchers have not been able to confirm how green-lipped mussels can reduce inflammation but theorize that their high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids (which are well known for their anti-inflammatory effects) could be the source of this benefit. In particular, green-lipped mussel supplements have been shown to combat osteoarthritis when taken with conventional NSAIDs such as ibuprofen but are not effective for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. AprèsFlex® Boswellia Serrata Extract AprèsFlex® is a patented combination of two extracts of the boswellia serrata tree. Boswellia serrata extracts’ numerous health benefits include the possibility of helping to combat arthritis, reduce inflammation throughout the body, and relieve pain, especially in cases of osteoarthritis. These effects are based on the results of four rigorous, double-blind clinical trials, one of which found that at six months, AprèsFlex® had improved joint comfort by 70 percent and reduced stiffness by 72 percent. In addition, Boswellia serrata extracts may offer these benefits even when consumed in relatively small doses (as little as 100 mg per day), and it is thought to work incredibly quickly, with symptom relief beginning to be noticeable as soon as five days after starting the supplement. Speak to a Physician Before Beginning a New Supplement Although FruiteX-B® calcium fructoborate, green-lipped mussel oil, and Boswellia serrata extracts are generally considered to be safe to take at their proper doses, it’s essential to speak to a physician before incorporating Body Kitchen ProMobility (or any other supplement) into your daily routine. Only a qualified medical professional can confirm that a supplement such as ProMobility is not only safe, but also beneficial for your particular set of medical needs. This is an especially important consideration for those who take other prescription medications, as some supplements can interact with these drugs and alter their effects on the body.
Unwind Watermelon Popsicles
Magnesium is an essential mineral with hundreds of functions in the body. Notably, it supports nervous system health and relaxes muscles for an overall calming effect. Using a magnesium supplement at night helps the body unwind from the day and prepare for a restful night’s sleep.
Strawberry Collagen Milkshake
This thick, creamy beverage reminds you of a strawberry milkshake but is packed with natural ingredients, protein, and fiber for a nutritious snack and balanced energy. It also happens to be dairy-free. Our strawberry milkshake features Body Kitchen Youthful Beauty Advanced collagen protein with hyaluronic acid and resveratrol. The collagen is a mixture of bovine and fish collagen to support hair, skin, nails, bones, joints, and digestion. For an extra boost to your skin, add a scoop of Body Kitchen Collagen + Elastin for wrinkle reduction, elasticity, and hydration. If you like this milkshake, you’ll also love these delicious, filling collagen smoothies: Berry Cacao Collagen Smoothie Banana Pumpkin Seed Smoothie Summer Radiant Skin Smoothie Detox Smoothie Spring Superfood Smoothie
The Mind-Blowing Superfood for Beautiful Skin and a Stronger Body
When it comes to superfoods, plants get all the glory. Sure, plant ingredients are vital for stabilizing free radical activity that wears down healthy tissue, but ignoring the true power player of youthful essence can cost you dearly. For skin that looks tighter, plumper and years younger, look beyond fruits and botanicals to a superfood we overlook every day: protein. The macronutrient you consume in chicken, eggs, yogurt, beans and nuts offers the best possible chance of defying age and gravity. No ingredient compares to the power of protein for strengthening skin’s firmness and elasticity. And skin is not the only beneficiary of protein. It also provides stability and durability to the structural support system throughout your body, from muscles to joints to bones. Find out how this forgotten superfood helps you look and feel younger. And pack an additional 10 grams of protein (including pure collagen) into your day with our delicious Strawberry Collagen Milkshake recipe. The Forgotten Superfood Despite the easy access to protein, chances are you’re not getting enough to keep up with forming lines, lax skin and dwindling muscle mass (thank you, aging!). Even grip strength and posture can take a hit when you fall below daily requirements—roughly 7 grams for every 20 lbs of body weight. One surprising study revealed a big gap between what we need and what we get. In a review of nine years of data showing the protein intake of over 11,000 adults over 51, an astounding 46% of the oldest adults regularly fell below daily requirements.* Your Skin’s ‘Glow Blocks’ New skin generation starts with amino acids. The firm, fibrous net-like tissue that holds your body in place—inside and out—is mostly made of collagen and elastin. These two precious natural resources are large, whole protein molecules comprised of chains of amino acids. Amino acids are found in all structural body tissues that provide strength and shape, from skin and bones to muscles and tendons. Known as the building blocks of life, amino acids are in a constant state of turnover—they’re broken down and reused to build more collagen, elastin and other proteins. After your teen years, you can expect to lose about 1% of your collagen content EVERY YEAR!* And not just collagen, but all protein production declines gradually. Natural Skin Hydrator The plump, dewy essence of youthful skin owes its smooth suppleness to hyaluronic acid. This lubricating molecule absorbs 1,000 times its weight in moisture and seals the gaps in skin’s structural netting. It’s also present in the synovial fluid in joints that buffers against shock and impact. Hyaluronic acid turns over rapidly… lasting just a day in skin and 1-3 weeks in cartilage.* But, as with collagen, production of this natural moisturizer falls as you get older, leaving skin and joints suffering from lack of hydration. Boost Collagen and Hyaluronic Acid Naturally Discovering that you’re losing the crucial building blocks of beautiful, healthy skin and body tone may feel as though your youth clock is ticking. But by leveling up your intake of dietary protein, you can keep your collagen and hyaluronic acid factories humming along longer. Eggs have the perfect profile with 18 out of 20 amino acids, including essential amino acids your body cannot produce naturally and must be consumed through food. One egg delivers the 7 grams of protein you need per 20 lbs of body weight. To increase consumption of amino acids and hyaluronic acid, eat protein in the form of bone broth for best results. Beef, poultry and fish bones are loaded with hyaluronic acid and amino acids ready to be released into a deliciously flavorful broth. Make hearty soups using bone-in pieces of protein to capture all the wholesome nutrition. Soy-based protein sources are also chocked full of hyaluronic acid, along with phytoestrogens that can amplify production and slow the signs of aging.* Get 7 grams of protein per ½ cup of tofu or edamame pods. Fast Protein Fix We know that counting protein grams can be time-consuming and inconvenient for your busy schedule. So, why count when you can scoop? We did the hard work for you by creating a superfood protein powder packed with collagen and 18 amino acids, plus hyaluronic acid and plant antioxidants… which most other protein powders are missing. Our bestselling collagen powder, Youthful Beauty Advanced helps rebuild and repair the integrity of your skin, muscles, bones and other connective tissue. Fill fine lines naturally and support elasticity from within. And support the foundation of a strong, active and ageless body. Youthful Beauty Advanced features our exclusive Peptide Fortified Collagen™ featuring grass-fed and fish-sourced collagen protein for the fortifying power of two high-quality sources. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, it unlocks skin hydration and supports lubricated, supple joints. Plus, potent antioxidant activity from resveratrol and black currant extract helps fight the premature aging and breakdown of tissue.
What's the Difference Between Prebiotics and Probiotics?
Regular intake of prebiotic and probiotic foods and supplements has the potential to increase gastrointestinal and full-body health. However, despite their related benefits, prebiotics and probiotics are two different things. Exactly what are these two categories, how do they differ, and why might it make sense to integrate probiotics and prebiotics into your diet and supplement routine? What Are Prebiotics? Prebiotics are compounds, most often plant fiber and complex carbohydrates, that feed probiotics (beneficial microorganisms). Because probiotics are living organisms, they require food to survive and proliferate, so providing them with prebiotics may make the gut microbiome healthier. Prebiotics are the equivalent of "fertilizer" for probiotics. How Prebiotics Support Gut Health Much of the carbohydrates and fiber in prebiotic foods and supplements cannot be broken down by the stomach or small intestine, so when consumed, the prebiotic compounds typically reach the colon in their unaltered form. In the colon, beneficial gut bacteria metabolize these prebiotics into various short-chain fatty acids (e.g., butyrate, propionate, and acetate) that are thought to be good for both gut health and overall health. Such fatty acids may provide the cells of the large intestine with necessary energy, reduce inflammation, and increase immunity, among other benefits. Examples of Prebiotic Foods Some of the best prebiotics for gut health can often include high-fiber foods such as Jerusalem artichokes, apples, asparagus, chicory root, cocoa, dandelion greens, flaxseeds, garlic, jicama root, leeks, oats, onions, and wheat bran. These foods contain potent prebiotic compounds such as inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and arabinoxylan oligosaccharides (AXOS), which in turn are thought to feed and increase the growth of beneficial bacteria, including those in the genera Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli. What Are Probiotics? Probiotics are living microorganisms (e.g., bacteria and yeasts) that may have health benefits in the digestive system and throughout the body when consumed as food or supplements. How Probiotics Support Gut Health Depending on the species in question, probiotics have a diverse range of mechanisms that may help to improve the health of the digestive system: Outcompeting pathogenic bacteria that can cause disease. Helping to strengthen the mucosal barrier of the small intestine. Producing beneficial substances such as vitamins and short-chain fatty acids. Examples of Probiotic Foods Some of the best probiotics for gut health can be found in foods, many of which also add a variety of unique and delicious flavors to one’s diet. Popular probiotic foods include fermented products such as yogurt, kefir, and some cheeses, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, kombucha, pickles that are fermented in saltwater brine (rather than vinegar), and natto. Prebiotics vs. Probiotics Consuming both prebiotics and probiotics may help improve digestive system health by helping the gut microbiome flourish. Although probiotics and prebiotics can have similar end results for the body, they are very different supplements with different mechanisms of action that create their benefits. The Critical Difference Between Prebiotics and Probiotics The critical difference between pre and probiotics is that prebiotics are the "food" or "fertilizer" for beneficial microorganisms, while probiotics are the beneficial microorganisms themselves. Complementary Relationship Between Pre- and Probiotics Consuming both prebiotics and probiotics may increase their benefits since the two work synergistically to support the health of the gut microbiome. Foods that contain both prebiotics and probiotics, sometimes known as "synbiotics," include kefir, cheese, yogurt, and kimchi. Benefits of Taking Pre- and Probiotics Together The benefits of prebiotics and probiotics may be amplified by taking the two together, as doing so effectively provides fuel with which the probiotics can proliferate. Here are the most notable potential health benefits associated with taking both pre- and probiotics: Improved Digestion Taking probiotics while on antibiotics may reduce the risk of antibiotic-related diarrhea by up to 60 percent. Probiotics may also relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive system illnesses and conditions. Greater Nutrient Absorption Some probiotics and prebiotics may also help increase nutrient absorption, reducing the risk of vitamin and mineral deficiencies, but more research is needed to confirm these benefits. Strengthened Immune System Probiotics interact with and stimulate immune cells in the gut, thereby regulating immune responses. Because probiotics can have immune system-regulating (immunomodulatory) effects, taking some types of probiotics and prebiotics may help boost the immune system. Further research will continue to illuminate the complex interactions between the gut microbiome and the immune system and the varying immunological effects of different probiotic strains. Improved Mental Health The gut microbiome is thought to have significant effects on mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety, so altering it with probiotics and prebiotics may lead to a reduction in mental health issue symptoms. A 2023 literature review of research on treating symptoms of depression and anxiety with pre- and probiotics found that such treatment could be highly effective. Still, scientists and clinicians will need more research to understand how probiotics impact and fully interact with mental health. Incorporating Pre- and Probiotics into Your Diet Dietary Sources The best foods to support gut health typically contain high concentrations of prebiotics and probiotics. In a 2023 study to determine which foods have the highest concentrations of prebiotics, the top five foods were found to be dandelion greens, Jerusalem artichokes, garlic, leeks, and onions. These foods had a prebiotic content of 79 to 243 milligrams per gram. When providing the ideal fuel for probiotics, it is typically recommended to incorporate these and other prebiotic foods regularly. The Best Supplement for Gut Health: Body Kitchen's Gut Balance The best gut health supplement is also among the best combinations of prebiotics and probiotics for digestion: Body Kitchen's Gut Balance. Three Strains of Probiotics This product contains three critical strains of gut health probiotics, all of which have had positive health effects shown by rigorous research studies: Bacillus Clausii, Bacillus coagulans, and Bacillus Subtilis. Also significant is the number of bacteria in the Gut Balance supplements. High-quality probiotics should contain a minimum of one billion colony-forming units (CFUs) of bacteria in each dose. Every two-capsule serving of Gut Balance provides six billion CFUs of probiotic bacteria, which is well above the minimum cutoff. Combination of Clinically Proven Prebiotics Unlike many gut-health supplements that are available on the market, Gut Balance does not only contain probiotics but also contains a blend of prebiotics to feed those beneficial microorganisms. When the three strains and six billion CFUs of Bacilli contained in each daily dose of Gut Balance arrive in the large intestine, the supplement's included prebiotics will instantly be available to feed them and encourage them to increase, likely amplifying their ability to survive in the gut as well as improving their overall benefits. The prebiotics that are found in Gut Balance are a mixture of citrus-derived flavonoid compounds (also called "Flavobiotics®") known as MicrobiomeX®. One study showed that supplementation with 500 milligrams of MicrobiomeX® daily raised levels of butyrate-producing probiotic bacteria; butyrate may lower gut inflammation biomarkers (e.g., calprotectin levels) and strengthen the gut barrier by increasing the gut lumen's secretion of antibodies. Speak to a Doctor Before Adding a New Supplement Before taking a combination prebiotic/probiotic such as Gut Balance, discuss this change with a qualified medical professional and confirm that it is appropriate for your health needs. Prebiotics and probiotics are typically low risk for healthy people, but those who have been diagnosed as immunocompromised, as well as other vulnerable groups, may experience side effects.
Unwind Blackberry Crumble
What if your dessert could help you unwind from the day and sleep better? That’s exactly what you’ll find in this Unwind Blackberry Crumble recipe, which includes fresh blackberries and a tasty date-sweetened crumble topping. We take this nutritious treat and uplevel it with a secret ingredient: Unwind Magnesium Powder.
