One good choice leads to another! – The Times of India Blog

The first small choice you make has the potential to dictate the final outcome of your plan

Making important choices, taking big decisions, or facing a life-changing task always seems intimidating, till you decide to tackle the undertaking in smaller bits.

The first choice you make, however small, dictates the final outcome. The job no longer seems formidable. In fact, it starts looking pretty manageable now. You started and got into the swing. The energy is swirling around you. You got a positive stroke with your first achievement, however small. For instance, if you started with just a 15-minute walk, you already feel good as you invested that time and energy towards the larger goal.

You have made an investment and henceforth your choices will be made with that knowledge at the back of your mind. You have a sense of responsibility towards this investment.

Now when you try and take a bite of chocolate, you will have those 15 minutes to answer to. When you decide your meal, your goal of a healthy lifestyle will never be far from your mind and will end up dictating your choice. Once you start eating healthy, that is another investment you make, because you sacrificed some things in order to make your healthy choice. To make that sacrifice worthwhile, you will be automatically driven to several other choices that will all add up towards achieving your ultimate goal.

What happened here? Well, you made a good choice to begin with! And one good choice inevitably leads to another and yet another building up towards achieving the plan you set out with. So, if you have a goal and a plan, stick to it and follow it step by step. Soon you will see it falling into place on its own, and the same choices that seemed heartbreakingly tough initially, will now be easy stepping stones towards your now very achievable goal!

We have all heard stories of how one act of kindness has a ripple effect and the potential to change the world. If positivity can be spread so easily, does it not follow that negativity has the same potential? Just as a good choice leads to several good choices, a bad choice can also carry us along on a whirlpool of disaster. Is not the choice then clear?

Any choice that we make carries the power of all our future choices and the direction our lives will take. That first choice can navigate our journey towards the goals that we consider important. One positive choice, just a baby step, not even a giant leap, can shift the course of our lives. One small shift in attitude reframing one negative into a positive or training your mind to one small discipline could help open paths that have remained forever shut to us. One small child we choose to help can improve things for a generation to come.

Understanding the ease of a positive choice and its huge repercussion, will help us lead life with a purpose that will automatically align with our passions. Be the change and watch yourself change in the process.

DISCLAIMER : Views expressed above are the author's own.

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One good choice leads to another! - The Times of India Blog

The Alkaline Water Company Partners with United Natural Foods, Inc. – CBD Today

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. The Alkaline Water Company Inc. (NASDAQ and CSE: WTER) (the Company), is a producer of premium bottled alkaline water, flavored-infused waters, and CBD infused products sold under the brand names Alkaline88, A88 Infused, and A88CBD, respectively. Today, the Company announces that it has expanded its partnership with United Natural Foods, Inc. (UNFI). UNFI is the countrys leading distributor of healthy lifestyle products, with over 40,000 retail customers. They now sell our complete line of Alkaline88 beverages and A88CBD hemp-derived topical products.

UNFIs mission to transform the world of food, is founded on the principle that everyone deserves access to healthy, sustainable food and beverages. Their 44-year passion to support the natural and organic foods channel aligns with Alkaline88s vision of becoming Americas #1 healthy lifestyle brand in beverages and hemp-derived cannabinoid products. We are pleased to announce that all of our Alkaline88 and A88CBD hemp-derived topical products are now available to virtually every natural food store in the country, stated Richard A Wright, President and CEO of The Alkaline Water Company.Its exciting to see our flavor-infused and eco-friendly aluminum bottles begin to pop up in natural and organic stores across the country. If you dont see your favorite Alkaline88 or A88CBD product at your local store, please ask your retailer to carry it. Our vision remains strong, and we are confident that partnerships like this will offer the shareholders of The Alkaline Water Company a bright future.

About UNFIUnited Natural Foods, Inc. is the largest publicly traded wholesale distributor delivering healthier food options to people throughout the United States and Canada. UNFI distributes over 110,000 products to more than 43,000 customers, including natural product superstores, independent retailers, conventional supermarket chains, e-commerce retailers, and the foodservice industry. Their scale and unique infrastructure allow them to give retailers unparalleled access to a wide range of products. With 33 distribution centers across the US and Canada, they can provide more people with a wider range of natural and organic grocery, chill, specialty, pet, and personal care items. For more information on UNFI visit unfi.com

About The Alkaline Water CompanyFounded in 2012, The Alkaline Water Company (NASDAQ and CSE: WTER) is headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona. Its flagship product, Alkaline88, is a leading premier alkaline water brand available in bulk and single-serve sizes along with eco-friendly aluminum packaging options. With its innovative, state-of-the-art proprietary electrolysis process, Alkaline88 delivers perfect 8.8 pH balanced alkaline drinking water with trace minerals and electrolytes and boasts our trademarked label Clean Beverage. Quickly being recognized as a growing lifestyle brand, Alkaline88 launched A88 Infused in 2019 to meet consumer demand for flavor-infused products. A88 Infused flavored water is available in seven unique all-natural flavors, with new flavors coming soon. Additionally, in 2020, the Company launched A88 Infused Beverage Division Inc., which includes the Companys CBD water and flavor-infused water. For the Companys topical and ingestible offerings, A88 Infused Products Inc. includes both the Companys lab-tested full-spectrum hemp salves, balms, lotions, essential oils, and bath salts, along with broad-spectrum hemp beverage shots, powder packs, oil tinctures, capsules, and gummies.

To purchase A88CBD Infused products online, visit us at http://www.A88CBD.com. To learn more about The Alkaline Water Company, please visit http://www.thealkalinewaterco.com

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The Alkaline Water Company Partners with United Natural Foods, Inc. - CBD Today

From too much boozing to too little exercise, the 12 simple lifestyle tweaks that could prevent 40% of – The Sun

FOUR in ten cases of dementia could be prevented or delayed by adopting a healthier lifestyle, a study reveals.

Experts have identified a dozen modifiable risks from childhood to old age that account for 40 per cent of cases.

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It includes too much boozing, too little exercise, smoking, obesity and high blood pressure.

Loneliness, pollution, head injury, hearing loss, depression, diabetes and poor education also increase the odds.

The report was compiled by 28 researchers from around the world, who want individuals and governments to take action.

Lead author Prof Gill Livingston, from University College London, said: We can reduce risks by creating active and healthy environments.

Other suggestions include the wider use of hearing aids, stop-smoking support and safer working practices.

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While experts say changing the way you live could help prevent dementia, here's exactly what you need to do to stop it in its tracks.

Experts state that maintaining a systolic blood pressure of 130 mm Hg or less in midlife from around age 40 years will help cut your risk.

Systolic blood pressure is the number that indicates how much pressure your blood is exerting against your artery walls when the heart beats.

This is important as if the pressure is too high then it could lead to complications.

The study states that people could try hearing aids.

They said the use of hearing aids should be encouraged for hearing loss.

It also reduces hearing loss by protecting ears from high noise levels.

Pollution is everywhere we go so it can be hard to get away from but there are things you can do to monitor it.

The experts said reducing your exposure to air pollution and second hand tobacco can help.

Apps are available that monitor the pollution levels outside.

While none of us want a head injury, experts says you should be careful if you are in a profession where you could be more prone to this.

Most of us like a tipple, whether it's a gin and tonic or a pint, but experts say it's important to keep your drinking in check.

To prevent alcohol misuse they say you should limit yourself to 21 units a week.

Men can have 3-4 units a day and women 2-3.

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The authors of the report said that this is a good idea at any age but can also reduce your risk of dementia.

It states you should also help support others who want to stop smoking.

While it may seem like a strange point to list, the experts say that an education is key in making sure people don't develop dementia later in life.

Making sure children have both a primary and secondary education is imperative, they say.

We all know the benefits of exercise.

The researchers said that it's important to stay active, especially when you hit the middle of your life.

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Keeping a healthy life style will lower your chance of diabetes.

If you are overweight then you are more likely to develop diabetes and there are signs you can look out for.

The government has recently launched numerous plans to help Brits kick start their weight loss journey.

The experts say that a healthy weight can help prevent your risk to dementia.

Getting yourself into a regular routine and a sleep pattern is always a good idea.

The researchers said that more work needs to be done when it comes to connecting sleep to dementia but said that this is part of a healthy lifestyle.

While a lot of focus is pushed on keeping fit, experts say that it's important to make sure you are mentally active through your later years.

This could mean doing activities such as reading or even puzzles.

Fiona Carragher, from the Alzheimers Society, said: The news that 40 per cent of dementia cases are, in theory, now preventable is certainly welcome.

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While we dont have all the answers yet, we can take action now to tackle the risk factors within our control, including excessive drinking, obesity and high blood pressure.

Meanwhile, we need public health policies to address other factors, such as air pollution and inequalities in childhood education.

Around 850,000 people are living with dementia in the UK, with the figure predicted to rise to 1.6million by 2040.

The findings are published in The Lancet and presented at the Alzheimers Association International Conference.

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From too much boozing to too little exercise, the 12 simple lifestyle tweaks that could prevent 40% of - The Sun

Broome County remembers the life of Officer Lee Barta after 25 years – WBNG-TV

(WBNG/WNBF) -- Broome County is remembering the life and service of Patrolman Lee Barta as the 25th anniversary of his death approaches this August.

Barta was shot and killed while on duty, pursuing an absconder in August of 1995. The suspect committed suicide after killing Barta.

The Broome County community keeps Barta's memory alive with the Lee Barta Community Center on the Northside of Binghamton, in the neighborhood where he lost his life.

The center is a part of the Healthy Lifestyles Coalition. According to their website, the mission of the Lee Barta Community Center is to collaborate with the community to inspire residents to live healthfully and achieve the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

The website says the center was opened in 2008 and underwent an expansion in 2018 that included a number of new amenities including a public computer lab, an exercise room, and a CHOW pantry.

One of Barta's sons is now a part of the City of Binghamton Police force, and the community center continues to give back to its residents, keeping Lee Barta's memory alive.

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Broome County remembers the life of Officer Lee Barta after 25 years - WBNG-TV

5 healthy living habits to keep hypertension at bay – TheHealthSite

High blood pressure, also called hypertension, can lead to severe health complications and increase the risk of heart disease, heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure. The ideal blood pressure is considered to be between 90/60mmHg and 120/80mmHg. Hypertension is when your blood pressure is at 130/80 and higher. Sometimes high blood pressure may not show any symptoms and so its called the silent killer. Therefore, it is very important to check your blood pressure regularly.Various factors can cause high blood pressure. These include: A diet high in salt, fat, and/or cholesterolLack of physical activityBeing overweight or obeseFamily historyToo much smoking or drinking Use of birth control medicines and other medicines.Preexisting health conditions such as kidney and hormone problems, diabetes, and high cholesterol.Older age (youre more likely to have high blood pressure as you get older)You can help keep your blood pressure in a normal range by living a healthy lifestyle. Below are some healthy habits to prevent hypertension

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6 Ways You Didn’t Realise Lockdown is Affecting your Body – Thrive Global

Youre stuck at home.

Youve tried a million ways to fill your time and be productive. Baking, reading, gardening, exercise, social media, name it. But something still doesnt feel quite right.

Sound familiar?

Well, theres a good chance that something actually isnt quite right. Staying indoors for extended periods of time can have grave effects on your body.

Spending most of your time indoors is now the new reality. Amid the devastating Coronavirus pandemic, over 100 countries enforced full or partial lockdown measures as of March 2020. That means that for most of us, our lives have been uprooted and moved to the confines of our homes.

Among all these changes, have you ever stopped to wonder how lockdown is changing your very physical structure and health?

The way your brain works is altered when put in prolonged confinement. Do you struggle to remember what day it is? Cant understand how a month is taking so long to end or ending too fast? Our brains are wired to rely on structure and routine to keep in touch with the world around us, and when we lose that, our perception of time goes into disarray.

For most people, mental health has also taken a huge hit. A recent study showed that stress levels for the average adult, have gone up by almost 50 per cent during the coronavirus pandemic. Those with pre-existing mental disorders like anxiety and depression tend to have them aggravated in this period, and a lot of people are developing them for the first time amid global trauma and panic.

Online counselling and therapy are quickly becoming necessary tools to manage mental health while social distancing. Maintaining a generally healthy lifestyle and keeping in touch with loved ones can also help during these difficult times.

The constant outpour of information from news media is also bound to lead to emotional and mental exhaustion. A good way to handle this is to limit the number of times you access the news to once or twice a day, to prevent panic and mental overload.

If youre anything like me, youve decided to take advantage of the extra time at home by earning money or studying online. This probably means hours at your computer working. While this is good, like me, it could be killing your back. Bad posture and remaining in any given position for hours on end on a regular basis puts a strain on your body and spine. The result? Back pain and discomfort.

Most back pain can be alleviated with regular stretching, back exercises and monitoring your posture and how you sleep.

Are you suddenly tossing and turning at night? Or you fall asleep at the drop of a pin? This may be caused by the disruption in your circadian clock. This is basically the biological rhythm that signals to your body when its daytime or nighttime, and therefore when to sleep. This clock is greatly determined by when and how much youre exposed to light.

So if you spend all day in a dimly lit room, and all night in an overly bright room, your sleep cycle is likely to be affected. Getting sufficient light in the morning and darkness before bedtime can help manage this. Otherwise, you are likely to sleep poorly or even get a circadian rhythm sleep disorder.

Do you know what sleep and digestion have in common? The circadian clock. These three factors affect each other and any significant change in one could affect the other two.

Apart from affecting sleep, our biological clock affects the functions of organs like the gut and the liver. It also determines your metabolism. Having constant bad sleep can also cause gastrointestinal problems, as well as affect your liver and gall bladder.

It is important to regulate your light exposure, sleep and maintain healthy eating habits to keep these three factors balanced.

A lot of people rely on everyday movement like walking as their main exercise. As a university student, before lockdown, I walked a lot. To class, to my hostel, all over campus, and almost anywhere near enough so that I could save a buck.

Without school or work, many of us are struggling to keep in shape within the confines of our homes. But theres much more to it than just gaining a little flab here and there or a few inches around your waist.

An inactive lifestyle makes you lose muscle strength in the long run. This doesnt mean you need to have been a beefcake or a bodybuilder to be affected. Even for regular schmegular people, you can lose a significant amount of muscle mass and endurance just by sitting around all day. So push yourself and try to keep up with an exercise routine, or youll become weaker in a very literal way.

The Coronavirus isnt the only health risk you should be wary of. You may be surprised to hear that stress and chronic loneliness can weaken your immune system.

For a lot of individuals under lockdown alone, varying degrees of loneliness are a daily reality. Human beings are social creatures. It turns out that what we all feared is true: people need people. On a deep, biological level.

Additionally, the World Health Organisation warns that a leading cause of disability and disease is physical inactivity. A prolonged sedentary lifestyle can increase your chances of contracting pretty much any disease, from diabetes to heart complications. So if youve decided to dedicate the rest of 2020 to being a couch potato, you risk contracting a whole host of illnesses during the lockdown.

It is important to remember that lockdowns exist for a good reason. Though staying indoors is frustrating, I know, its important to follow the lockdown regulations in your country as best as you can. It will help us eradicate the virus faster, and prevent it from spreading and hurting the vulnerable.

Almost all physical complications from lockdown can be mitigated with exercise, a good diet, and structure. It is important to create a sense of routine in your life if you dont want your days to blur into each other. Take advantage of technology to keep in touch with your loved ones and people you share interests with. This will help stave off loneliness and keep you grounded in reality.

For more severe cases, always contact the health authorities nearest to you.

Remember; the pandemic has overturned a lot of lives and its perfectly normal to have some difficulty adjusting. Dont be too hard on yourself.

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6 Ways You Didn't Realise Lockdown is Affecting your Body - Thrive Global

COVID-19 pandemic drives the pursuit of healthy lifestyles, in South Korea, says Samyang – FoodIngredientsFirst

23 Jul 2020 --- Pursuing a healthy lifestyle has been underscored as one of the key trends in the South Korean market as the COVID-19 pandemic pushes health to the fore. Samyang Corporation reflects on the current state of the market by spotlighting the most pervasive consumer trends. At the same time, Innova Market Insights flags some of the top trends in South Korea, including online shopping, spicy flavors and late-night snacks.

Speaking with FoodIngredientsFirst, Sehui Jeon, Global Specialty Ingredient Marketing Manager of Samyang, explains how the desire for minimally-processed foods, functional snacks, gut health products and customized nutrition foods are proliferating in South Korea. Jeon also spotlights the growing importance of specialty ingredients, such as allulose and indigestible dextrin, which are significant this year.

People are now pursuing healthy lifestyles not only through the consumption of supplements but also in everyday foods, he says.

The 2020 Top Trend pegged by Innova Market Insights in South Korea is Product Design for an Online Market, The online market of F&B in the region is snowballing. Manufacturers need to design new products for online sales and delivery. As a result, retailers in South Korea are suffering from competition with online malls. Online malls are available 24 hours and seven days a week.

This type of constant availability offers easy access to many Korean consumers. The online F&B market is convenient for shopping and mobile apps are leading the online shopping sector.

Korean flavor trendsIn flavors, exotic taste and textures are coming to the fore. Most Koreans are open-minded about trying food for the first time, they rather embrace the unknown taste to see if it fits their palate. Recently, South Korea seems to be in the grip of Mara, one of the most used spices in Chinese cuisine, a spicy flavor from Sichuan Province.

Innova Market Insights backs this flavor trend as being prominent in the nation. According to the market researcher, Mara is steadily gaining popularity in all food categories in South Korea. Product examples include Cj CheilJedang Beksul Mara Noodle Soup Cooking Sauce, Lotte Frito Lay Doritos Mara Spicy Hot Pot Flavored Nachos, and Nongshim Mara Noodle Soup Flavored Instant Ramen.

Snacking but healthyClick to EnlargeInnovative shapes, colors and textures appeal to many Korean consumers.Additionally, new products have been released, such as shaking pudding with konjac and pectin, and chewy cookies with modified starch, notes Jeon.

Innovative shapes, colors and textures of long-established brands are being launched for consumers in South Korea. Colors, in particular, resonate well with the adventurous consumer.

Snacking is also dominating Korea food trends. Drinking yogurts and cereal bars are the most popular snacks these days. When consumers choose a cereal bar product, they take into account the raw materials, total sugar content, protein content and whether it contains dietary fiber or not, explains Jeon.

Snacks are no longer simple or convenient, more people are thinking about their overall health, she asserts. In addition, the main consumers of snacks are often people who are sensitive to calories and nutrient claims, so its essential to reduce sugar content.

Innova Market Insights Number Seven Trend for South Korea is Reward for Me. The trend recognizes busy daily life and offers enjoyment. Many consumers believe a late night snack will help them forget the fatigue of the day. The key drivers are convenience, flavor and texture, notes the market researcher.

A sweet outlookMeanwhile, in South Korea, the need for low sugar content or/and low-calorie food is popular and gaining interest.

One of the biggest dairy producers has been running a sugar reduction campaign since 2014 in South Korea. They replaced their main sweetener from sucrose to allulose and natural high-intensity sweetener such as stevia. If they use only high-intensity sweeteners, the original taste can be changed, causing a decrease in sales. Maintaining its original taste without sugar content and calories is the biggest challenge to all the producers who want to reduce sugar, Jeon continues. In this respect, blending allulose with stevia is the best solution to keep with the original taste.Click to EnlargeSamyangs allulose was launched in South Korea in 2017. It is made from non-GMO raw material and non-GMO enzymes.

Even though prices might rise slightly using healthier sweeteners, theres no other way to adjust for consumer demands for healthier products. Eventually, the food and beverage industry will give in to their needs, she explains.

More consumers are looking for sugar substitute sweeteners while they cook at home, adds Jeon, noting that allulose has been spotlighted as a key sugar substitute. Allulose is a nearly zero-calorie sweetener with 70 percent sweetness of sucrose. Owing to its similar characteristics to sucrose and harmonizing nature with other caloric and non-caloric sweeteners, it can be applied to a wide range of food and beverage products exempted from total sugar and added sugar in nutrition labels.

Samyangs allulose was launched in South Korea in 2017. It is made from non-GMO raw material and non-GMO enzymes. New products using allulose are increasing from start-ups that are ahead of the trend to main products of large companies including carbonated beverages, drinkable yogurts, ice cream, cereal bars, sauces, plant-based beverages, cookies and supplements, to name a few.

Moreover, blended sucrose with xylose is also a popular sugar substitute, details Joen. Xylose is a digestive enzyme of sucrose called sucrase inhibitor, which inhibits sucrose absorption in the body. Those are used as a substitute for sucrose and high fructose corn syrup in various kinds of food and beverage products, she comments.

Vegan and vegetarian claims riseAccording to Jeon, vegan claims are rapidly spreading as consumer interest in animal protection, eco-friendly and ethical consumption, grow in South Korea. Two to 3 percent of the population is vegetarian and the number is small itself but has increased tenfold over a decade, she says.

In the domestic food market, start-ups are focusing on vegan food, but research and product launches by large food companies are also making an impact. Plant-based beverages, plant milk, and plant-based ice cream are gaining traction, adds Jeon.

Click to EnlargeSouth Koreans consume probiotics through traditional fermented foods such as kimchi.Many people think that South Korean food is vegetarian-oriented and with low sweetness or/and low saltiness (except for the spicy flavor) compared to Western foods. South Koreans routinely consume probiotics through traditional fermented foods like kimchi based on vegetables. According to Innova Market Insights, kimchi is one of the representative filling ingredients in South Korean Mandu (dumplings). Current NPD is focused on thinner skin and more delicious fillings, notes the market researcher. Thinner skin shows the inner filling and stimulates appetite and lightness.

Additionally, the obesity rate is relatively lower than in Western countries. These kinds of food cultures and lifestyles can raise the world's interest and seem to increase popularity in Korean diets and food, she details.

Moreover, Samyangs indigestible dextrin made from plant sources not only contains dietary fiber content but also has advantages in terms of physical properties, improvement of body mouthfeel, increase the emulsion stability in beverages and dairy applications, and improved crispness in cereal and snacks, flags Jeon.

Dietary fiber(s) included in the functional ingredients list results in many F&B manufacturers considering more dietary fiber usage in their products.

South Koreans are also very interested in gut health, Jeon highlights. The consumption of dairy products and dietary supplements have been in demand, while supplements related to gut health including probiot
ics, prebiotics are the second most purchased supplements today, she concludes.

By Elizabeth Green

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COVID-19 pandemic drives the pursuit of healthy lifestyles, in South Korea, says Samyang - FoodIngredientsFirst

This Premier Protein Coffee Drink is Trending on TikTok, But Is It Healthy? – Parade

Among the many things people miss when they start following a keto diet, coffee creamer is often one of them. Most coffee creamers are keto diet no-nos because they have too much sugar and carbs to qualify as a keto-friendly food. But we can all agree that coffee tastes amazing with a dash of sweet, creamy goodness, right?

Many keto dieters switch from traditional creamers to beefed up, healthier versions that contain super ingredients like MCT oil, coconut oil and almond milk. These can help promote weight loss and provide a healthy energy boost. But if youre a keto-friendly coffee lover, theres a new trend in town: Adding a dash of Premier Protein to coffee for a boost of protein to your morning brew. The idea is that youre able to add something tasty to your coffee all while staying full longer and getting a caffeine boost.

We know the Premier Protein trend is a popular one, but is it healthy? We took a closer look at the ingredients and spoke to an expert to find outheres everything you need to know.

Premier Protein is a packaged protein drink that contains 30 grams of protein in a single serving. But with only five grams of carbs per serving, its keto-friendly. Its marketed in much the same way as competing protein drinks: for use as a meal replacement, as part of a healthy diet for weight loss, or for someone who struggles to take in enough calories and is looking to gain weight.

Premier Protein comes in six flavors: Chocolate, vanilla, caramel, cafe latte, banana and strawberry, and is widely available everywhere from pharmacies and grocery stores to Costco and Amazon.

Related: What Is The Keto Diet and How Does it Work?

Lunch is served !!! #keto #premierprotein #bomb #coffee

original sound katelynnekate

The endless enthusiastic videos of people doctoring up their coffee with Premier Protein make it looks like cant-miss coffee additionbut is adding Premier Protein to your coffee really a good idea? The answer depends on what youre using it for. In general, adding protein to your first drink or meal can lead to suppressing the appetite and a perception of an energy boost. This can lead to a lower caloric intake and subsequently weight loss or leaning in the body-building process, says Niraj Shah, a BJC Medical Group board-certified physician in family practice, obesity medicine and lifestyle medicine.

So if youre looking for a tasty coffee creamer that will keep you in ketogenesis, Premier Protein is a solid addition to your morning coffee.

Related: Keto Kitchen Makeover

But what about from a long-term health perspective? Can Premier Protein fit into a balanced diet thats part of an overall healthy lifestyle, or is it simply just another weight loss hack? According to Shah, using protein to suppress appetite will yield results if youre focused on weight loss. However, research has shown that this type of approach produces only short-term results.

In a lot of ways, the Premier Protein trend may be a bit of a quick fix. So if you do hop on board with it, keep in mind that a healthy lifestyle also includes a well-rounded diet and plenty of exercisePremier Protein coffee isnt a magic bullet.

Related: Keto Diet Food List

Wondering how you can incorporate Premier Protein into your morning cup of coffee? The way you go about it depends on your personal preferences, but here are some simple ways to make your own Premier Protein coffee.

Celebrity interviews, recipes and health tips delivered to yourinbox.

Theres no question that the Premier Protein coffee trend is a popular one, and it can be healthy if used in the right way, especially if youre following the keto diet. Happy sipping!

Next, try one of these 14 low-carb keto smoothies, shakes, and cappuccinos.

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This Premier Protein Coffee Drink is Trending on TikTok, But Is It Healthy? - Parade

Fitness Facts: What does healthy eating really mean? – GCU Today

By Liz CookRegistered Dietitian, Canyon Health and Wellness Clinic

We hear the word healthy thrown around a lot these days. Healthy food, healthy diet, healthy body, healthy mind, healthy lifestyle the list goes on.

But when it comes to healthy eating, what does healthy really mean? How do you know you are buying good-quality food that is good for your body? How do you see through marketing and misconceptions to know what you really should pick? Lets break it down:

First things first. Buying whole, fresh, unprocessed foods is your best bet. Think fresh fruits and veggies, minimally processed meats, whole grains, nuts, seeds and legumes. If it doesnt need a nutrition label, its probably a good thing to buy!

However, plenty of healthy foods come in packages and will contain a Nutrition Facts label. This label has a ton of information on it and can be a little overwhelming.

Fortunately, the labels are getting a makeover, and you will start to see more and more of the new Nutrition Facts labels in the future. The updates make the labels easier to read and understand. If youre interested in seeing a comparison of the two, click here!

When it comes to deciding what to eat, instead of trying to compare every line on the label, focus on a few important pieces.

Things to maximize:

Things to minimize:

Focusing on the Nutrition Facts panel can give you valuable insight into what you are eating, but make sure to check out the ingredients list as well! When it comes to reading an ingredients list, be sure to consider three important factors.

First, shorter lists are more favorable and are usually found on foods that are closer to their naturally occurring form.

Next, the order of ingredients matters. Ingredients are listed in order from most to least, so if sugar is the first ingredient on the list, youre eating mostly sugar! Look for recognizable, whole foods at the top of the list.

Finally, evaluate the complexity of the ingredients. If the words in the ingredients list look more like the names of chemicals than the names of foods, its likely something to avoid.

Evaluating the back panel gives you tons of information, but dont ignore any claims made on the front of the package. In trying to sell products, food companies use different words and phrases that can be misleading at times.

For example, a food labeled as calorie free can contain up to 5 calories per serving. If the serving size is small, you may use multiple servings without realizing it and end up adding calories you may not even realize were there!

The same goes for fat free and sugar free, which really mean less than a half-gram per serving. Here are a few other front-of-label claims to look out for:

Another question that comes up frequently: Is organic produce better than conventional? The answer depends on a few factors.

First, if you have an unlimited budget to buy all organic, go for it! There arent really any downsides to consuming fewer pesticides.

However, if that is not realistic for you, there is a tool to help make the decision a little easier. The Environmental Working Group comes up with a list of the Dirty Dozen each year. This list contains the produce items that have been found to have the highest amount of pesticide residue on them and should be bought organic when possible.

The group also has a list of the Clean Fifteen, or the foods with the least pesticide residue, that you can feel more comfortable buying conventionally. Its also worth noting that organic foods have roughly the same number of calories, carbs, protein, fat, etc., as their conventional counterparts.

One final thing to discuss is the concept of health halos. This is the notion that a food is healthier because of a claim made on the label, a diet it fits into, or the store it was purchased from.

A few examples of this rationale are that all natural foods are better, vegan foods are healthier or anything from Whole Foods is inherently healthy. These are common traps that are easy to slip into, but with the knowledge you have gained from this article you can be a smarter consumer and really pick the best option!

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Fitness Facts: What does healthy eating really mean? - GCU Today

Sean Swarner Leads 18th Climb to Kilimanjaro to Memorialize Those Touched by Cancer – PR Web

CancerClimber Association

DENVER (PRWEB) July 22, 2020

Sean Swarner, 2x cancer survivor, world-record holder, and co-founder of The CancerClimber Association (CCA) will embark on his 18th climb to Mount Kilimanjaro at the end of July with another group of cancer survivors and hikers. Every year, the cohort of CCA climbers will bring a HOPE flag that carries the names of friends and family members who have been touched by cancer. The hikers post the flag at the summit where it remains for thousands of people to see.

The flag is also how you can be a part of the team and a part of the climb. By making a donation you can include the name of a loved one, friend, or anyone you know who has been touched by cancer to this years flag, memorializing them forever on the roof of Africa.

To include a name on the flag, you can donate as little as $1. For those who donate $50 or more, their team will send you a signed photo of their team with the flag at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro. For those who donate $100 or more, they will receive the inclusion of loved ones names on the flag, the signed photo, and a copy of the HOPE flag.

All of us are alive, but not everyone is truly living, says Sean Swarner, Explorer Grand Slam Achiever, World Ironman Championship Competitor, and lifelong adventurer. After surviving cancer twice and learning how fleeting our time is on earth, it has been my greatest joy to now give others the hope that kept me - and continues to keep me - fighting because without hope we have nothing."

Donate and submit the names of those you know who were touched by cancer here:https://charity.gofundme.com/o/en/campaign/climbing-kilimanjaro-for-cancer-2020

Each year prior to the start of the climb, the team raises money for the following year. The funds cover the cost for a cancer survivor to join their team on the journey to the top. 100% of the funds go to CancerClimbers Adventure Support Grant (ensuring future survivors this amazing, fully-funded trip of a lifetime!), development of their mobile camp for young adults with cancer, personal visits to patients to inspire HOPE, and inspiring all those touched by cancer to focus on living.

Read about Seans journey across the Arctic to reach the North Pole here or follow his trek by watching the documentary, True North: The Sean Swarner Story, available on Amazon Prime. Visit seanswarner.com for more.

About CancerClimber Association Originally founded in 2001 by Sean Swarner and his brother Seth, The CancerClimber Association (CCA) had its sights set on funding cancer research. Today, in addition to supporting research studies, CCA also focuses on hope and giving people the tools needed to overcome cancer with the right attitude and to come out on the other side with a more positive outlook on life. Hope and inspiration is key to the associations groundwork and foundation. As they continue raising money for the mobile camp, they also have in mind cancer survivor grants. CCA aims to help those touched by cancer by focusing on living an active, healthy lifestyle. To learn more about CancerClimber, the mobile camp, how to get involved, or information on the upcoming trek, please visit us at http://www.cancerclimber.org, http://www.seanswarner.com, or at info@cancerclimber.org.

ContactMelissa Leemelissa@bellivy.com310-894-6040

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Spa and Salon Software Market 2020 | Remarkable Growth Factors with Industry Size & Share, New Innovations of Leading Players & Forecast till…

This Spa and Salon Software Market research report provide business experts opinion with efficient information on Spa and Salon Software market growth rate, emerging business environments, and the latest business-centric applications. This Spa and Salon Software industry report lists and studies the leading participants also provide insights with strategic industry Analysis of the key factors influencing the market dynamics. Spa and Salon Software market report focuses on to describe and analyze the value, market share, market competition landscape, SWOT analysis, and development plans in the next few years. The report also offers an in-depth analysis of the Spa and Salon Software market with prime emphasis on factors such as drivers, restraints, trends, and opportunities.

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Market Overview:

Major Key Players of Spa and Salon Software Market:

Scope of the Report:

Spa and salon management software is a web-based solution that aids spa and salon businesses manage their daily business operations. The system automates a range of tasks including appointment booking and scheduling, appointment confirmations, customer interactions, inventory tracking, staff management, secure storage of data, and implementation of marketing campaigns.

The Report Covers:

For More Information or Query or Customization Before Buying, Visit at https://www.industryresearch.co/enquiry/pre-order-enquiry/14244502

Key Market Trends:

Cloud-Based Software to Gain Maximum Market Traction

Cloud-based software allows a business to set up a virtual office which offers the flexibility of connecting the business anywhere, at any given time. According to a study conducted by the International Data Group in 2018, 73% of organizations have at least one application, or a portion of their computing infrastructure already in the cloud, while 17% plan to do so within the next 12 months. With the gradual shift towards beauty and wellness products owing to the increasing trend of a healthy lifestyle, salon and spa businesses are also growing substantially. Hence the need to efficiently collaborate the business is increasing. Adoption of cloud solutions is expected the business to communicate and share more easily across different locations apart from the traditional methods. Factors such as reduced IT costs, increased flexibility, instant data accessibility and recovery, and business continuity in case of a crisis minimizing the downtime and loss of productivity are driving the adoption of cloud solutions.

North-America to Hold the Highest Market Share

The North America region is expected to hold the highest market share in terms of revenue in the spa and salon software market. It is majorly due to the early adoption of beauty salon services and products by individuals and professionals in salons and spas owing to the increased demand for healthy and standard lifestyles. Moreover, the changing lifestyles of the urban population and increasing health and skin problems is stimulating the growth of the market. Further, with increasing disposable income, people are getting more focused towards personal appearance, and the advanced techniques and technology used in spa and salons are some more products expected to boost the market.

Key Questions Answered in This Report:

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Detailed TOC of Spa and Salon Software Market 2019-2024:

1 INTRODUCTION

2 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

4 MARKET DYNAMICS4.1 Market Overview4.2 Market Drivers4.2.1 Rising Demand for Healthy and Standard Lifestyle4.2.2 Automation in Business Processes4.3 Market Restraints4.3.1 Initial Setup Cost4.4 Industry Attractiveness Porters Five Force Analysis4.4.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers4.4.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers/Consumers4.4.3 Threat of New Entrants4.4.4 Threat of Substitute Products4.4.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry

5 MARKET SEGMENTATION5.1 By Size of the Enterprise5.1.1 Small and Medium Enterprises5.1.2 Large Enterprise5.2 By Deployment5.2.1 Cloud-Based5.2.2 On Premise5.3 By Solutions5.3.1 Customer Relationship Management5.3.2 Inventory Management5.3.3 Resource Management5.3.4 Enterprise Management & Reporting5.3.5 Business and Financial Reporting & Analysis5.4 Geography5.4.1 North America5.4.2 Europe5.4.3 Asia Pacific5.4.4 Rest of the World

6 COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE6.1 Company Profiles6.1.1 MindBody, Inc.6.1.2 DaySmart Software6.1.3 Springer-Miller Systems6.1.4 Zenoti6.1.5 Waffor6.1.6 Salonist.io6.1.7 Vagaro, Inc.6.1.8 Simple Spa6.1.9 Pxier

7 INVESTMENT ANALYSIS

8 MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE TRENDS

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Name: Ajay More

Phone: US +14242530807/ UK +44 20 3239 8187

Email: [emailprotected]

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Spa and Salon Software Market 2020 | Remarkable Growth Factors with Industry Size & Share, New Innovations of Leading Players & Forecast till...

‘The Titan Games’ Season 2 Episode 9 Preview: Who will defeat the reigning Titans? – MEAWW

After the storms in the Central and the West, it's time for the East to prove its shine. Last week, after finishing 'Lunar Impact' in record 17 seconds, country boy Will Sutton went up against Dwayne Johnson's handpicked titan Tyron Woodley at Mount Olympus and defeated him squarely. It was a shock to fans, who actually considered if the show was even real. On the other hand, Army nurse Haley Johnson went head-to-head with monster truck driver Cynthia Gauthier and defeated her in the two challenges of 'Kick Out' and 'Chain Linked'. She came out victorious and then challenged gold-medalist Hannah Teter at Mount Olympus. It was an epic win and Haley is now the reigning Titan.

Yet, Will and Haley cannot rest on their laurels for too long. The other participants from the East are just as determined to be Titans. The synopsis for the next episode reads, "The competition continues with competitors pushing their bodies to the limit by battling opponents in unforgiving head-to-head challenges, designed by host Dwayne Johnson. In these Eastern division battles we see Michelle Lewis go up against Dasha Kuret and Andrew Hanus take on Ryan Seenberg. They will compete on obstacles such as Launch Pad, Chain Linked, Kick Out and Over the Edge. Winners will move on to face reigning Titans on Mt. Olympus, the consummate athletic test of speed, strength, agility and endurance. Cari Champion and Alex Mendez serve as commentators."

It remains to be seen if Will and Haley can remain Titans. If they do, they'll have to prove their worth for one more round in the East, as the finals are coming up too. Following that, they'll get to battle it out with Central Region Champions Matt Chann and Dani Speegle and the West Region champions Noah Palicia and Margaux Alvarez.

In an exclusive interview to MEA Worldwide, participant Dasha Kuret had opened up about her experiences of being on the show. Speaking about what motivated her to join the show, she said, "I come from a family where a lot of women are overweight. So all my life, I've been trying to break the cycle. Hopefully, I wanted to be an example to others and myself. You can live an active and healthy lifestyle. So I was motivated to compete in the show when I saw Dwayne Johnson call the action on his Instagram, saying, "We're looking for titles, people from all walks of life and doesn't matter what your profession is". It sparked something inside me. A lot of people don't know I've wrestled and I played flag football. Yes, I am an announcer and interviewer, but I have this side to me too. I've gone through a lot of things in life and I wanted to compete so badly. I went online, submitted the application and the videos required. I put it into the universe and made it happen."

'The Titan Games' airs on NBC, Mondays at 8 pm.

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'The Titan Games' Season 2 Episode 9 Preview: Who will defeat the reigning Titans? - MEAWW

You Are What You Eat is More Than a Cliche – Taste Terminal

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Posted by paiges on July 18th, 2020 | Add Comments

Health experts like Helen Schifter have been trying their hardest to communicate to the masses the value of eating healthy and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. For too long, there have been people dedicated to all sorts of different causes and passions many of which have been constructive, while neglecting one that might seem to be the most obvious. That one of course is health, wellness and ensuring that society is leading the healthiest type of lifestyles imaginable.

Helen Schifter has written about these issues in great detail on Thrive Global and other platforms that readers can scour and visit. This content is valuable information and has undoubtedly affected people in meaningful ways. Ultimately, the ability to convince members of the public of the value of health and wellness is the first objective of any health advocate and principal.

The ways in which to achieve these milestones is a totally different question to be considered. But lets first examine the value of eating healthy and dispel some common myths that exist about maintaining a healthy diet. First and foremost, theres an idea that exists out there which is a misconception, that somehow eating healthy must mean sacrificing the quality or taste of the foods one is eating.

This is a total myth that should be debunked once and for all. Secondly, there are so many different organic and healthy offerings across a variety of different cuisines. Whether one is interested in foods emanating from Italian, Middle Eastern, American or other types of cuisines, these cuisines all offer healthy options that are no less tasty and delicious than others.

So lets be more adamant, careful and cautious about the types of foods we eat. Taste matters. But health should matter as well. In fact, it ought to be a priority in all of our lives. And for that reason, there must be a more careful approach to eating, amongst the general public.

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You Are What You Eat is More Than a Cliche - Taste Terminal

Things to consider while choosing a health insurance plan – OrissaPOST

It is rightly said that Let our advance worrying become advance thinking and planning. With healthcare costs hitting double-digit inflation year-on-year, planning for your healthcare needs is essential. It is about bringing the future into the present and taking actions now. Health insurance plays a critical role in having a healthy lifestyle with access to good quality treatment in case of medical exigency.

Below are a few things I feel are important to consider while you decide on your health insurance cover.

Do your homework on the kind of products available and do it right before you buy your health insurance plan. Check if the coverage is enough for you and matches your requirement. After all, you are responsible for yours and your familys well-being. An appropriate health insurance cover will help you stay worry-free in terms of managing medical expenses in case of any exigency.

(The author, Sweetie Salve, is the Vertical Head Claims Medical Management, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance)

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Things to consider while choosing a health insurance plan - OrissaPOST

Balanced and healthy diet – The Nation

As once quoted: To ensure good health: eat lightly, breathe deeply, live moderately, cultivate cheerfulness, and maintain an interest in life.

The first and foremost thing: eat lightly. Now, what does it means to eat lightly? Eating lightly means eating rightly, only then we can lead a healthy life. To become healthy, we have to choose a balanced diet over our taste pallets. Diet, the only source of energy, needs to be consumed wisely.

A balanced diet is a diet which contains an adequate quantity of the nutrients that we require in a day. It must six include basic nutrients i.e. Fats, Protein, Carbohydrates, Fibre, Vitamins, and Minerals. It is a common misconception that a healthy diet means consuming enough meat and fats; however, vegetables and fruits are equally important. Since vegetables and fruits are a rich source of vitamins, minerals and fibre, they are a must for healthy lifestyle.

But unfortunately, due to fraudulent sellers and adulteration mafia, quality fruits are hard to find in market. However, our food regulatory authorities i.e. Punjab Food Authority is taking strict actions against this mafia to ensure the provision of quality fruits and vegetables, especially in the outbreak of the pandemic.

We also as responsible citizens must act vigilantly while buying food items, buy only quality fruits and vegetables because eventually, it is your own stomach that is going to be fed on this. Eat not only to flatter your tongues but to also be healthy. Very few foods are either all good or all bad. By having an idea of the balance in your diet, it should be easier to enjoy food and be healthy.

NAWAL TARIQ,

Lahore.

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Balanced and healthy diet - The Nation

Food Circle Supermarket: ‘We want to be one of the largest food surplus retailers in Europe’ – FoodNavigator.com

Food Circle was launched in 2018 on a shoe-string. Co-founders Paul Simpson and James Barthorpe met while working for one of the UKs largest surplus food re-distributors.

Simpson was inspired by this model. After seeing the positive impact that reducing food waste could have on the environment [I] wanted to create a business that stopped surplus food from going to waste whilst also helping others live a healthy lifestyle, he told FoodNavigator.

Simpson pitched the idea to Barthorpe and asked him if he was up for the ride. Fortunately, James instantly loved the idea to create an online store where customers could purchase surplus food that is in-date and healthy too.

The new entrepreneurs 'saved up money, left their jobs and launched in January 2018 on a shoe string.

Since then, Food Circle Supermarket has sold over 500,000 surplus food and drink items through its online store.

Food Circle Supermarket has direct partnerships with all of the brands it works with. The company works to forge close working relationships that sees brands alert the company to surplus stock, and both parties come to an agreement.

The stock is then delivered to Food Circle Supermarkets depot in Sheffield. Food Circle Supermarket is a fully centralised model. All stock comes to the depot in Sheffield, where it is stored, sold via Food Circle Supermarkets own e-commerce store, and then picked and packed before being shipped out to customers directly across the UK and ROI via the couriers.

This system means the company can be confident in the quality of the products it supplies to customers. This direct from supplier model guarantees quality, as well as the fact Food Circle Supermarket always asks its brands to sign food safety forms (and provide relevant certification) to guarantee food safety, Simpson said.

Importantly, the model is a win-win-win for Food Circle Supermarkets customers, suppliers and the environment, he continued.

Food Circle Supermarket works to solve key problems for consumers, suppliers and the environment.

For the consumer, Food Circle Supermarket provides products that are discounted from the normal retail price, enabling them to choose healthier options and complement their healthy lifestyles for less, whilst saving surplus food from potentially going to waste.

For the supplier, Food Circle Supermarket provides a commercial return for surplus stock, and a secure and transparent route that will protect their brand integrity.

And last, but definitely not least, for the environment Food Circle Supermarket helps to reduce surplus food from going to waste and therefore minimises the negative impact that this has on the environment.

Food Circle Supermarket currently acts as a retailer for healthy snacks, protein products and drinks, This can include high protein, gluten free, organic, vegan and vegetarian, as well as healthy alternatives to mainstream products.

When Simpson and Barthorpe were drawing up the business model, they knew that they needed to focus on specific categories otherwise the approach would be too scatter-gun.

The companys focus was initially on gluten-free products, which was witnessing a jump in consumer interest at the time.

As time moved on, the business moved into the sports nutrition sector following on from customer feedback It was an organic shift for the business and the focus then turned to this category.

Simpson revealed Full Circle Supermarket absolutely expects to continue to evolve its offering. Food Circle Supermarket is constantly expanding its offering both product and brand wise and is already doing more gluten free (again) and vegan products, as well as new things such as coconut waters and porridge pots.

The business plan is to expand much broader as the growth continues, however this takes time and is best not to be rushed. The long-term goal is to provide a one-stop shop for all surplus food, he told us.

A focus on health is important to the companys mission. The business is proud to help people achieve their healthy lifestyle goals at an affordable price whilst also benefiting the environment too, Simpson explained.

Its consumers, Simspon elaborated, tend to be ordinary people with busy and active lifestyles.

With most of the products available being perfect for on-the-go healthy snacking, such as bars and shakes, the majority of Food Circle Supermarkets products cater for this category.

Demand has spiked during the COVID-19 lockdown, with sales up 68% from 2019 levels in the January-to-June period alone as shoppers increasingly look to e-commerce.

Food Circle Supermarket has had an extremely busy year following on from business growth being accelerated by COVID-19. Food Circle Supermarkets sales had literally doubled in size overnight and have shown no signs of slowing down since, Simpson reflected.

Due to this growth, Food Circle Supermarket has now outgrown its current warehouse after taking up all of the available units at the business centre it operates from. The next step for the business is to move into a new build 6,500 sq/ft premises in August. This move will be in conjunction with a recruitment drive on both an operational and office basis, the co-founder revealed.

Food Circle Supermarkets longer-term ambitions are extensive. It wants to become one of the largest food surplus retailers in Europe by working with more brands across more categories.

Simpson said the founders both know this is possible. [We are] well on the way to achieving the long-term goals to help even more brands find a home for their surplus, and get even more consumers used to the idea of shopping for surplus food alternatives.

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Food Circle Supermarket: 'We want to be one of the largest food surplus retailers in Europe' - FoodNavigator.com

LEANNE MCCRATE: The function of functional foods – The Independent

Dear Dietitian: Over the last several months, Ive heard more about functional foods and the health benefits they provide. Is there science to back these health claims, or is this just crafty marketing? Thanks, Jerry

Dear Jerry: A functional food is one that provides a benefit beyond that of nutrition. Some of us drink a strong cup of coffee every morning to help us wake up. Others eat prunes to assist with regularity. Still others sip a cup of chamomile tea to help them sleep at night. In these examples, food and drinks provide a purpose beyond providing calories and nutrients.

To some degree, all foods are functional. While there is no legal definition of functional food, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics defines them as whole foods, along with fortified, enriched or enhanced foods, that have a potentially beneficial effect on health when consumed as part of a varied diet regularly at effective levels.

The term functional food is considered to be marketing by some, while others believe these foods make us feel better and help prevent diseases. When it comes to making health claims, the Food and Drug Administration regulates food manufacturers can place on packaging labels. That is why you will see claims that state may help reduce cholesterol when used as part of a diet that is low in saturated fats and low in cholesterol.

Try one of these functional foods.

Fatty fish. Youve probably heard of the omega-3-fatty acids found in salmon, tuna, trout, sardines, and mackerel. Health experts recommend two servings per week to possibly reduce the risk of heart disease.

Nuts are a great source of fiber and monounsaturated fats that may promote heart health. Try one ounce of your favorite nuts mixed with a few raisins for a healthy afternoon snack.

Leafy greens contain folate for your heart and the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin that function to protect the eye from damaging sunlight. These nutrients are plentiful in kale, spinach and turnip greens.

Berries contain phytochemicals known as anthocyanin pigments, which give them color. Anthocyanins have been found to have anti-cancer effects in laboratories and animal studies. However, this does not mean the same thing occurs in the human body. More studies are needed to provide a meaningful link. Whether you prefer strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, or raspberries, these colorful fruits are not only pleasing to the palate, they may promote better health.

Orange juice with added calcium is an example of a fortified functional food. Of course, calcium is not found naturally in orange juice, and adding it promotes strong bones.

When it comes to sizing up functional foods, a little common sense goes a long way. In some cases, it is difficult to provide a recommendation of how much of a particular food to consume for health benefits simply because it has yet to be hammered out in the research. As part of a varied diet and a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise and good mental health, functional foods may help you live a healthier life.

Until next time, be healthy! Dear Dietitian

LEANNEMCCRATE, RDN, LD, CNSC, aka Dear Dietitian, is based in Missouri. Her mission is to educate consumers on sound, scientifically-based nutrition. Do you have a nutrition question? Email her today at deardietitian411@gmail.com. Dear Dietitian does not endorse any products, health programs, or diet plans.

We are making critical coverage of the coronavirus available for free. Please consider subscribing so we can continue to bring you the latest news and information on this developing story.

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LEANNE MCCRATE: The function of functional foods - The Independent

Crow Wing Energized: Keys to success on road to healthier living – Brainerd Dispatch

That is roughly 13.7 million children and adolescents in this country that are obese. I believe many people today know obesity is a rising problem that can lead to more harmful conditions and diseases later in life. Also, I am confident many people are aware of solutions to help decrease the prevalence! However, the secret to success is not just in the knowledge, but in the action. It is not a complex formula, but it is not easy either. Living a healthy lifestyle and being at a healthy weight does not need to include a magic pill, fad diet, or widgets found on TV.

Instead of a short-term fix, it is important that we help instill long-term change as well as tools and habits that can set up children today, to be healthy adults in the future! So how can we instill healthy habits and behaviors in children?

1. Move more, sit less. Be active.

2. Food is fuel, not the enemy. Eat nutritious foods.

3. Have accountability. Make it a family endeavor.

These three bullets are very beneficial for keeping your child healthy and at a healthy weight.

Isaac Bitter with his wife Emily and family. Submitted photo

Exercise daily! Move everyday and make it fun! I discourage parents, coaches, etc. from talking poorly about exercise. If you use it as punishment or as some grueling event, what do you think that young moldable mind will think about an active lifestyle? They will associate that as bad or as a punishment! Promote movement and exercise as a good thing and make it fun.

Food is fuel to our bodies and gives us energy throughout the day. Avoid using food to punish or reward your child. Instead, practice mindful eating. Mindful eating is the philosophy that you eat when you are hungry and stop when you are satisfied. It focuses on being attentive and present when you are eating. Leave the distractions of watching TV, playing on the phone, or reading a magazine. Also, incorporate your child in grocery shopping and preparing meals. When children get to enjoy what they prepared, they will be more apt to eat it and not waste it. When preparing the meal, try to add more color to the plate by adding a serving of fruit and a vegetable.

Lastly, be an accountability partner and help your children keep you accountable also. When you can have an accountability partner, successful results exponentially increase. Do not discourage, poke fun, or insult their efforts. When one slips for a day, understand we are human and are prone to make mistakes. Rather than giving up, encourage them to get back on the wagon and work to accomplish their goal.

These strategies listed above are not groundbreaking, so why is obesity a perpetual (growing problem) in the United States?

My wife is a dietitian and I am a physical therapist. Over time we have noticed that clients that develop a support system, take in quality food (in proper quantities) and consistently exercise get better, faster! In short they take responsibility for their current state and take action.

How exactly does one help his or her child apply these practices? I believe there are a few fundamental principles that go beyond the three keys to success listed above that not only will help your childs health, but also his/her confidence and overall well-being.

1. Having a why that is bigger than that mammoth muffin in front of them. To have you and your children be successful for the long run, your why needs to be visible and on the forefront of your mind. It might be to make it on a sports team or fit into a certain dress. It might be to no longer be made fun of, or to simply be more healthy I cant pick your why, that is up to you!

For me, the decision to get healthy was multifactorial. Yes, I am saying this from experience. I was an overweight, insecure, freshman in high school. I was tired of getting picked on because of my weight. I wanted to prove mean people wrong and had a burning desire to start on the varsity hockey team as a sophomore.

My aspirations, goals, priorities in life have changed, but habits gained during that season stuck with me. I have learned to love exercise and crave many healthy foods that fuel my body. It has not always been easy, but it has been totally worth it.

Motivation will get you started, discipline will carry you through. My why was bigger than some of the initial pains of consistent exercise and saying no to sugary food.

2. I believe another important factor to overall health is a mindset shift and an attitude adjustment! I believe this develops gradually as one begins working toward their goal. It is important to develop the attitude that exercise and nutritious food is your friend and not the enemy and that your body should be respected and cared for.

In order to create a healthy mindset around physical activity and quality food choices, parents should promote a mindset for your child that says, I am a healthy person, and do the things a healthy person would do.

James Clear speaks on this in his book, Atomic Habits. If you dont know how to get healthier, ask yourself, What would a healthy person do? A healthy person would exercise today, even if it is for only a couple of minutes. A healthy person would have some fruit and vegetables with most meals and probably would say no to second helpings. Dessert would be eaten with discretion! So saying no to dessert more often than not, may be a good idea. As a parent, by incorporating these strategies into your own life, you are setting an example for your children. Create a family environment that says, We are a family that is healthy. If you are not that family currently, start today.

The beautiful thing about a mindset is that you can start thinking like a victor rather than a victim immediately! Set the example for the adolescents in your own life. Move with them, try tasty and nutritious dishes with them, make it a team effort and create an environment of accountability.

3. Help your kids see themselves as a valuable creation. I dont want to get preachy, but understand that mind, body and spirit are all huge factors in how one treats and views him or herself. A positive attitude and mindset early in life will help build confidence in that child throughout his or her lifetime. Creating a mentality from an early age that stewards ones body by intentional eating and consistent exercise is important.

In fact, eating well, getting enough sleep and exercising have all been shown to reduce anxiety and depression. It also has been linked to improved performance and concentration in the classroom and in life. Helping your kids understand they have worth is paramount!

How you do that is beyond the scope of this article.

To recap, here are all the principles discussed in this article that are important for creating a healthy lifestyle and environment for your child(ren) and family.

Photo illustration by Metro Newspaper Service

Developing a healthy lifestyle and weight is not a sprint. The tips and suggestions provided in this article dont include a crash diet or how to lose weight fast. The microwave approach isnt sustainable for long-term success. What I am talking about is real, long-term victory. It is throwing the ingredients in a crockpot and seeing the plan come to fruition overtime. This way of doing and thinking requires discipline. If you commit to it, it will work! Unfortunately, because it is work, some will not take action over their situation.

I hope you begin to reshape your family tree today by building a mindset of mental toughness, hard work, and positive relationships today!

My wife, Emily and I are passionate about people reaching their full potential. If you have questions or would like to chat about any of the above content, dont hesitate to reach out to us at ibitter4@gmail.com or emilylouise724@gmail.com.

Charles Duhigg is an expert on habit formation. He notes that every habit includes three things: 1. Cue. 2. Habit. 3. Reward.

Whether you are working to quit smoking, biting your nails, hitting the snooze a
larm, to quit drinking pop, etc. the solution is the same. One needs to use the cue that triggered the old habit and reward the new habit the same way!

For example, a family has a big dessert every night. The cue is we just got done with dinner. The reward is that we are spending time as a family. If one is working to build a better habit to maintain a healthy weight, one could use the cue of being done with dinner and implement a different family activity like playing a board game or (better yet) go outside for a walk, shoot hoops, etc. The reward for the child remains the same: spending time with his/her family, and doing something they enjoy with people they care about.

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Crow Wing Energized: Keys to success on road to healthier living - Brainerd Dispatch

Donating $1,000,000 In Smoothies To Support COVID-19 Relief Efforts: A Conversation With Smoothie King CEO Wan Kim – Forbes

Smoothie King CEO Wan Kim

Wan Kim didnt live a healthy lifestyle as a college undergrad. A smoker and social drinker, one of the only times Wan felt healthy was when he would grab a smoothie and get his nutrients for the day. Soon, he became hooked on health and his love for smoothies launched a career as the current CEO and Chairman of the Board of Smoothie King. Now, Wan and his team lead the franchise with one pivotal goal: to inspire people to live a healthy and active life.

As the CEO of a company built on health and wellness, Wan knew he had to contribute to supporting his communities during the pandemic. He and his team launched a mission to donate $1,000,000 worth of smoothies to local hospitals, testing centers, police and fire stations and other essential workplaces across the country a goal the company reached last month.

I originally spoke with Wan this past fall on an episode of Brand on Purpose about his journey with the smoothie company, and recently reconnected with him to chat about his pledge and why he chose to support COVID-19 relief one smoothie at a time.

Healthy living is a huge part of your ethos. When COVID-19 hit, did you recognize a role for the company right away in terms of responding to those impacted?

Inspiring people to live a healthy and active lifestyle is our mission. We have always been focused on that, so we knew we could respond by breaking through and reminding our guests we are here to support their health.

We started right away in March and April. First, we offered our guests a free immune support enhancer, which could be added to any smoothie they ordered. Building off that, we launched the new Immune Builder Veggie Superfood Smoothie in April to provide additional immune support.We followed that up with our donation of $1,000,000 in smoothies to essential workers and front-line responders, which directly supported their health and wellness as they continued to keep us safe and healthy. We also highlighted our contactless service options online ordering, drive-thru and curbside pick-up and even launched delivery in the middle of the pandemic.

Altogether, we believe theseinitiatives were critical in our response to the pandemic. It showed we were still open and able to serve our guests safely and conveniently, and it reinforced our mission and commitment to their healthy and active lifestyles.

Individual franchisees were responsible for reaching out to their local first responders. With that being the case, how did you go about ensuring a consistent, wide-reaching effort?

During the $1,000,000 donation in smoothies initiative, our operations and marketing teams assisted the stores by coordinating the donations and helping stores engage with hospital systems in our largest markets.From there, we shared these strategies with the entire system and encouraged them to utilize the donation plans in their markets as well.

We could not have been this successful and consistent without our franchisees, who really drove the success of this initiative.They carved out the time and budget necessary to make this happen, and for that, I am grateful.It would not have been possible without them.

You also gave guests an opportunity to participate in the pledge. Why was that important?

We heard from some franchisees that they had guests who also wanted to help, and we thought it was a great idea. So, we designed the guest program for this initiative and saw great success.Over the course of the initiative, our guests donated over $5,000 in smoothies to first responders.I believe this is important because it shows our guests are inspired by our mission and vision, and they wanted to pass it on to those that needed it most during this time.

Have there been any special blends or flavors as part of this effort - perhaps particularly aimed at boosting immune systems and that sort of thing?

Yes! We launched a new flavor to our line of Immune Builder Smoothies: Veggie Superfood. It is made with organic veggies and an immune support enhancer, which combined create a delicious, immune-supporting smoothie. This new flavor joined our Immune Builder Mixed Berry, which also contains powerful antioxidants. We also gave each guest a free immune support enhancer in any smoothie, which allowed them to support their immune system while still enjoying their favorite blend.

We know all of the hard work we put in from 2016 - 2019 to create our Clean Blends initiative gave us the perfect menu to talk to our guests about how Smoothie King supports their healthy living lifestyle.

How can our audiences support your efforts?

The biggest way at this point is to be a Smoothie King ambassador and inspire others to live a healthy and active lifestyle.I believe that with thousands of Smoothie Kings, the world will be healthier and more active than it is today.

Is there anything else youd like our readers to know about this initiative - the thinking behind it, its execution, and/or whats next?

I want people to know we were able to accomplish this because of our guests and our franchisees. Without their efforts, this would not have been possible. We wanted essential and front-line workers to know that we are grateful for all their efforts during this pandemic.We did this because we my team, franchisees and guests all wanted to do something to help.We also wanted to raise awareness around our stores still being open and ready to support guests on their health and fitness journeys both now and in the future.

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Donating $1,000,000 In Smoothies To Support COVID-19 Relief Efforts: A Conversation With Smoothie King CEO Wan Kim - Forbes

Product showcase 2020: From No bake Energizing Oat Bites to the ultimate almond flour – BakeryAndSnacks.com

Heart healthy

Natures Eats a family-owned brand of Texas Star Nut & Food Company is launching an almond flour that performs just like traditional all-purpose flour.

According to the company, the Ultimate Nut Flour: Almond+ a proprietary blend of almond flour and other natural ingredients will also rise better than other almond flours on the market.

The one to one almond flour mix is non-GMO, kosher-Star K certified and has an enhanced bake and rise formula, which means no need for conversion tables as all ingredients are included and ready to use. The flour can easily be substituted in existing recipes to make gluten-free crackers, breads, cookies or doughnuts.

Suitable for keto, paleo and gluten-, grain- and wheat-free diets, almond flour is cholesterol free, low in carbs and high in protein: One ounce of almond flour contains over 6g of protein and 3g of fibre. It is also rich in magnesium, vitamin E, manganese, copper and phosphorus.

Natures Eats is committed to showcasing the benefits of nut flours in new and innovative ways, said John Taylor, president and CEO for Natures Eats.

The Ultimate Nut Flour: Almond+ will bring new life to baking by enhancing taste, usability, performance, versatility and product longevity. Were excited to bring a key ingredient for innovative cooking to match market demand and expected growth.

The 16oz convenient re-closable bags of Ultimate Nut Flour: Almond+ will be launched exclusively on Amazon in August 2020 with nationwide store availability in 2021.

Munchy Seeds has won a listing in Wholefoods Markets seven London-based outlets with three of its variants Honey Roasted, Mega Omega and Sweet Chilli in 125g sharing bags.

According to the Suffolk-based snack producer, its Munchy Seeds are a perfect fit for Wholefoods customer base, as they are 100% natural, gluten and dairy free and suitable for vegetarians. Five flavours in the range are also vegan.

We are delighted to be working with Wholefoods Market and supplying such prolific stores in the capital, said Lucinda Clay, co-founder of Munchy Seeds.

We feel that Munchy Seeds and Wholefoods Market are a brilliant match as we share a passion for high quality, locally-sourced products that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy lifestyle.

Munchy Seeds produces a range of seed mixes in six sweet and savoury flavours: Sweet Chilli, Mega Omega, Honey Roasted, Warm Cinnamon, Mild Chilli and Salted Caramel, in three formats: 25g snack packs (RRP 80p), 120g resealable pouches (RRP 2.99) and 450g resealable sharing packs (RRP 8.75).

Fatherson Bakery has launched three premium fours available on its online platform and delivered to your doorstep including Fatherson Premium Plain Flour, Self-Raising Flour and Strong Bread Flour.

The flours are milled and packed in the UK and have smart packaging to stop flour mess getting everywhere with their easy to open and close resealable packaging. The inside foil wall packaging helps to keep the flour fresh over its 12-month shelf life.

People are falling back in love with baking, and while we are spending more time around the home its the ideal time to try new recipes or even experiment, said Laurence Smith, owner of Fatherson Bakery.

Our new range of flours will meet every bakers dreams. The flour range is a best in quality, signature flour, milled from British crops that we use in our very own baking daily. As a result, people will be able to enjoy delicious results.

The flours each come with a recipe suggestion, are natural, contain no preservatives and are suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Available in 1.5kg bags with a RRP of 2.75-2.95.

Baking mix brand Krusteaz has launched its newest innovation, Energizing Oat Bites Mix.

Available in two varieties Chocolate Chip Oat and Cinnamon Oat the products require no baking and feature whole grain oats, flaxseed and chia.

The mixes are made without artificial flavours, artificial colours or artificial preservatives and contain 8g of plant-based protein per serving.

After the great success of our protein and whole-grain line of pancakes, muffins and cornbread, we were eager to provide consumers with options for convenient anytime snacking, said Andy Heily, president & CEO of brand owner Continental Mills.

At Krusteaz, we believe that nutritious protein-filled snacks dont have to sacrifice great taste, so were excited to continue to add more products that combine the energising benefits of whole grains and protein with the classic taste that consumers expect from the brand.

The Oat Bites Mix is easy to make in just 30 minutes and can be glammed up with nut or seed butters, honey or agave and rolled in chopped nuts or flaked coconut.

Available at Walmart across the US with a RRP of $3.99.

Organic and gluten-free brand Jovial Foods has launched a cassava flour pasta, the first of its kind on the market.

Available in five shapes Spaghetti, Fusilli, Penne, Elbows and Orzo the cassava pasta is crafted in Italy by artisan pasta makers, using traditional techniques and two simple ingredients: organic cassava flour and water.

The plant-based, grain-free line is also free of the top 8 allergens, as well as gluten and gums, and has no added starches, making it suitable for any lifestyle.

Jovials cassava pasta can be found across the US at Sprouts, Wegmans, Heinens and online with planned expansion to Amazon, Thrive Market, Whole Foods and Hannaford soon at a RRP of $4.99.

Carla Bartolucci, founder of Jovial Foods, found that cassava could make a high-fibre and nutrient dense pasta that satisfies like real pasta. It is also aligned to Jovials mission of sustainable farming, growing in marginal soil with little water and producing more calories per acre than wheat and corn, making it a staple for over half a billion people worldwide.

Quinn Foods, known for reimagining classic snacks with real, transparent, great tasting ingredients, has launched Grain Free Pretzel Chips, made from cassava flour, also known as yuca.

The chips are non-GMO, certified gluten-free, grain- and dairy-free, and suitable for Paleo and vegan lifestyles.

The plant-based chips are baked not fried and seasoned with rock salt. They contain 2g of protein and fibre, along with only 100 calories per serving.

At Quinn, we want everyone to be able to enjoy the mouth-watering flavour and texture of pretzels regardless of special diets or restrictions, said Kristy Lewis, founder and CEO of Quinn Foods.

Our grain free, pretzel chips allow so many people with allergies or special diets, the chance to enjoy the nostalgic taste of pretzels once again.

Quinns Grain Free Pretzel Chips are available at Whole Foods Market stores across the US and also on Amazon.

UK bakery Patisserie Valerie has created a Thank You Cake for people to show their appreciation for those who have gone above and beyond during the UKs lockdown period, with 10% of proceeds being donated to Silver Stories.

Silver Stories links young readers with elderly people many of whom who are in care homes to enable them to read to them over the phone. The charity was created in response to knowledge concerning the loneliness that can be felt by the elderly in the community and their often separation from the younger generation.

Many people have come together in recent weeks during the coronavirus crisis to support each other in communities throughout the UK and Patisserie Valeries cake provides an opportunity to say Thank You.

It can be ordered online for delivery direct from the bakery to any postcode in the UK. Order by midday for next day delivery, where available.

The Great British Porridge Co. has furthered its listing with Ocado to include two new flavours to its 385g 7-serving bag range, as well as its recently launched 60g porridge pots.

The new Caffe Latte and Classic Chocolate porridges in bags, and range of convenient single serve porridge pots in Classic Chocolate, Bl
ueberry & Banana and Caffe Latte are all 100% natural, contain no added sugar and are suitable for vegans and those following gluten-free diets.

We are very excited to be able to offer all of our products on Ocado, said Jacqueline Barleycorn, founder of The Great British Porridge Co.

Launching a new range during lockdown has proved hard work, particularly in creating new retail relationships, so securing our offer on Ocado so quickly is just fantastic.

We have built up a loyal Ocado customer base over the years, so its great to be able to give our customers even more choice.

The Great British Porridge Co. 385g bags have an RRP of 3.99 (also available in Banana & Blueberry, Strawberry & Peanut Butter and Red Berry & Pumpkin Seed), while the porridge pots have an RRP of an RRP of 1.29.

Razor USA has kick-started scooter culture and design to the next level with its first-ever limited-edition collaboration series, featuring Takis Snacks-themed kick scooters. The company also partnered with Sriracha, AriZona Iced Tea and Sharpie for the collection, with each collaboration injecting the essence and personality of the four hip brands via visual styling and colourways.

According to Takis Snacks brand owner Barcel USA the US snack division of Grupo Bimbo its rolled tortilla chips are no ordinary corn chips. Available in five punchy flavours Fuego, Crunchy Fajitas, Nitro, Wild and Guacamole they have been created for the strong, brave and daring.

Razors Takis Snacks scooter brings that boldness to life with its purple body and T-bar, contrasted with striking yellow wheels.

When Razor launched twenty years ago, our goal was, and still is, to inspire joy, excitement, and fun everywhere our riders go, said Jim Wagner, president of Razor USA.

To be able to collaborate with such culturally influential brands that align with these values is a testament to the breadth and ability of Razors influence in this space of iconic brands, and we cant wait to see where this collaboration takes Razor in the future.

The themed scooters are available at select Target locations as well as online only while supplies last.

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Product showcase 2020: From No bake Energizing Oat Bites to the ultimate almond flour - BakeryAndSnacks.com