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Former Ballroom Dancer Reverses Diabetes while Shedding 45 Pounds with Diet-to-Go

by Caitlin H,

Oct 3, 2022

For 77-year-old Florida resident Judith Nelson, weight loss came secondary to a deep desire to regain control of her health and expand her lifespan.

“Healthy living is what’s most important to me,” Judith said. “Right now longevity and not being a burden to my children is my primary goal, and that comes from being healthy.”

Find out how Judith Diet-to-Go helped Judith work towards her goals, and find out how YOU could be our next success story!

7 Delicious, Healthy Weekend Dinners for Fall

by Caitlin H,

Sep 26, 2022

Autumn is such a fun time. The cooler weather and changing leaves make for an excellent time to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Plus, the seasonal produce makes for exciting, tasty dishes that are packed with nutrition and flavor.

Do you have any fall favorites? We have a few we think you should add to your recipe book! You can whip up these delectable dishes on the weekends and enjoy your fresh, calorie- and portion-controlled meals from Diet-to-Go during the week!

5 Ways to Ensure Your Weight Loss Journey Won’t Be a Wash

by Caitlin H,

Sep 19, 2022

You know eating a healthier diet is vital to losing weight. You know that it means you’ll have to make some real changes, and you’re ready.

So you research online, you check out the article about the best new diets, you talk with your friend about the plan she’s been trying…

But here’s the thing: Losing weight isn’t about trying the latest and greatest thing. It’s finding what works for you and setting yourself up for success by ensuring your weight loss journey won’t be a wash. We’ve come up with a few ways for you to do exactly that.

Spin Class Instructor Says Nutrition is Key to Weight Loss

by Caitlin H,

Sep 12, 2022

Denise, a 47-year-old marketing executive for a major pharmaceutical company, has been exercising nearly every day for years. She teaches spin classes three days a week, lifts weights five days a week, and does yoga one day a week. Despite her incredible fitness level, Denise knew last December that her 202-pound weight meant it was time to make a change.

Even as a fitness enthusiast Denise turned to Diet-to-Go to help lose those extra pounds with its ease, portion control, and high quality food. 

Sweet & Salty Keto-Friendly Side Dish Recipes for Labor Day

by Caitlin H,

Aug 29, 2022

If you’re on the keto diet or watching your carbs, you’re good to go with the chicken, sausage, shish kabobs, or hotdogs sizzling on the grill. But what about the wide array of sweet and salty side dishes spread out across the table to go along with them? Just because you’re keto-ing it up doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get to enjoy a tasty something to go along with your main dish!

Let’s balance things out with some sweet and salty, delicious, keto-friendly recipes. You can whip these up yourself and take them to your next summer get-together.

5 Effective Resistance Exercises to Do as You Get Older

by Caitlin H,

Aug 22, 2022

You’ve probably heard how critical a well-rounded diet and consistent cardiovascular activity are to prolonging your life. And yes, those things are essential — and just as essential is incorporating resistance training into your routine. That’s because muscles naturally tend to lose strength as you get older; effects you can counter by doing things like lifting weights and using resistance bands.

We gathered 5 extremely effective resistance exercises for middle-aged folks and seniors. Do these at least a few times a week to work towards adding years to your life!

Healthy Hacks: How to Sneak More Vegetables Into Your Diet

by Caitlin H,

Aug 8, 2022

Vegetables — they’re versatile, nutrient-packed and a vital part of any well-balanced diet.

Here’s the thing. We all know how essential it is to eat them regularly. But if we’re being honest with ourselves, it’s challenging to choose the carrot sticks over the chips or the salad over the steak. So, we don’t.

That’s why we put together this list of 5 hacks to fit more vegetables into your diet. From smoothies to grilling ideas to veggie spreads and more, you’ll find getting your daily vegetable intake a cinch with these tips!

Nurse Tries Diet-to-Go and Sheds 30 Pounds

by Caitlin H,

Jul 25, 2022

Working as a nurse at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic had no shortage of challenges. Just ask 37-year-old Michelle, who started her career as a nurse in 2017 and worked in labor and delivery and the emergency room.

“I was working insane hours,” Michelle said. “I’d work overnights and never had time to eat healthy.”

But then she found Diet-to-Go!

A Comprehensive Guide to Water Aerobics

by Caitlin H,

Jul 11, 2022

If you’re looking for a low-impact workout that gets your heart rate up while simultaneously giving you the chance to build connections with like-minded people, then water aerobics may be the thing for you.

We put together a comprehensive guide to this fun, engaging fitness activity that is just the thing for anyone with limited mobility and those who love the pool!

7 Unique Outdoor Activities for a Summer Outing

by Caitlin H,

Jun 27, 2022

There’s nothing quite like a day outside enjoying the trees, grass and flowers while soaking in the sunshine and smelling the clean, fresh air.

We found a whole host of reasons why you should incorporate time outdoors into your weekly activities, particularly during the warm summer days. If you’re at a loss for some new unique ideas for a summer outing, the kinds of things that will make the experience memorable and enjoyable for you and your loved ones… we’ve come up with some fun things to try!

Lifestyle Tips to Help Manage Your Diabetes

by Caitlin H,

Jun 20, 2022

If you’re living with Type 2 diabetes, you know how challenging it can be to simultaneously manage your blood sugar while striving to meet your everyday demands. It’s easy to feel frustrated, overwhelmed, defeated, tired and stressed as you try to remember to do things like take medication, make your regular check-ups and deal with the everyday ups and downs.

We have a few lifestyle tips that may help make managing your health and your diabetes just a little easier.

6 Exercises for Improving Neck Pain & Tension

by Caitlin H,

Jun 13, 2022

Many of us spend most of our day craning our necks to look at our computer screens, tablets or mobile devices. That unfortunate but necessary trend has caused a whole host of posture problems, which in turn can cause chronic neck pain and tension, particularly as we age.

Thankfully, a mixture of strengthening exercises and stretching can work wonders towards alleviating these issues.

8 Healthy Side Dishes for Your Memorial Day Barbecue

by Caitlin H,

May 23, 2022

Barbecues are one of the best parts of summer. There’s truly nothing quite like a warm evening with a cold drink and plate full of delicious food while friends and family are all around you.

Want to have side dishes that provide a healthier, lower-calorie alternative to traditional options…without skimping on flavor?

Try one of these healthy side dish recipes that will wow your guests at that next summer barbecue. Enjoy!

Evening Tips to Level Up Your Weight Loss Efforts

by Caitlin H,

May 16, 2022

The evening brings a unique set of challenges to weight loss goals. It’s often the time when we sit down and unwind, which can bring a certain amount of temptation to munch on unhealthy snacks or drink too many adult beverages.

Here are some much better ways to spend your downtime to set yourself up for success tomorrow! Try some of these simple nighttime tips to keep yourself on track and ensure you meet and maintain your weight loss goals.

How To Develop a Healthy Mindset, and Why

by Caitlin H,

May 9, 2022

Life is all about your mindset. That’s true when it comes to losing weight, too. A recent study from the Society for the Study of Ingestive Behavior found that people who view a meal as a way to be healthy ate significantly smaller portion sizes than those who viewed them as a pleasure or a way to stay full until the next meal.

Leverage Friendship to Make (Not Break) Your Health Goals

by Caitlin H,

May 2, 2022

Think about what you do on the weekends. If you’re like most, there’s probably at least one or two outings that involve people in your social circles. And what do those outings involve? Food? Alcohol? When you’re trying to lead to a healthy lifestyle, maintaining friendships while sticking with your goals can be one heck of a problem. Or, your could try a few things to turn those friends into a resource!

5 Steps to a Healthy Heart

by Caitlin H,

Apr 25, 2022

Exercise is often top-of-mind when you set out to boost the quality of your cardiac health.. While it’s true that burning calories by engaging in something like walking or cycling can help with weight-loss, the real cornerstone of any successful “heart-healthy” plan is rooted in a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

So before you put all of your focus on physical exercises, let’s see what other steps you can take to keep your heart pumping, and possibly add years to your life!

5 Ways to Love the Person in the Mirror

by Caitlin H,

Apr 18, 2022

Feeling uncomfortable in our skin is a common thread shared by women and men alike, particularly those of us who are trying to lose weight.

Thankfully, there are steps you can take to turn your state of mind around and start to feel positive about yourself. Read on for five ways to fall in love with the person in the mirror.

Pandemic Serves as Catalyst for 85-Pound Weight Loss

by Caitlin H,

Apr 11, 2022

Like many of us, Louise Ebbert found that the pandemic suddenly created an isolated and sedentary lifestyle that she just wasn’t used to. Her usual routine of active travel for work was disrupted, and the day the scale said 272 pounds she decided enough was enough. She had to make a change. She restarted Diet-to-Go that day.

“People are always waiting until tomorrow. You have to just make the decision and start now.”

Exactly one year later and Louise is down 85 lbs, and she wants to share her story so people who have been seeing the effects of Covid on their health and weight can see there is a way back.

This One Simple Thing Can Help Control Your Waistline

by Caitlin H,

Apr 4, 2022

How often do you find yourself scarfing down a meal without ever really stopping to think about how the food actually tastes?

Whether it’s a steak dinner at a restaurant with friends, munching a wrap while rushing to a meeting, snacking on nuts between meals, or even eating a sandwich during your lunch hour, many of us don’t take the time to slow down and enjoy our food. And unfortunately, rushing through meals that way means it is unlikely we are giving our brains enough time to register that we’re full — which may lead to overeating and subsequent weight gain.

There’s a simple thing you can start doing to make sure you slow down and thinking about what you’re eating.

Kohlrabi fries are the most delicious way to use up the kohlrabi in your CSA or from your farmer’s market. With options for both the air fryer and baked in the oven, there’s fries for everyone!

If you’re not sure how to use up all the kohlrabi in your CSA or from your farmer’s market, you’ve got to make these kohlrabi fries!!

Seriously, I’ve never enjoyed kohlrabi more. Coated with fry seasoning. Paired with your favorite dip. Get ready for this to be your new favorite side dish.

Ready in just 15 minutes in the air fryer or 25 minutes in the oven! These are easy to bake in the oven or cook in your air fryer.

What is kohlrabi?

The name kohlrabi comes from a mashup of the German words for cabbage and turnip, for which this veg is slightly reminiscent of. It tastes subtly sweet and a little peppery when eaten raw and its texture is similar to jicama or a turnip. You can eat the leaves on kohlrabi too, as long as they look okay! Similar to collard greens, they’re delicious sautéed with garlic or added to soups or stir-fries. A cruciferous vegetable, similar to cabbage, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts, kohlrabi is packed with fiber, fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants which have been shown to help decrease the risk of cancer.

How to use kohlrabi

You can enjoy kohlrabi raw, either shaved, grated, or sliced thinly, in a slaw or a salad, or combine with flour and egg to make into kohlrabi fritters. Or, you can cook kohlrabi by roasting it in the oven with different herbs and spices or mashed similar to potatoes. 

Ingredients You’ll Need

Notes on Ingredients

Kohlrabi: you can find kohlrabi at your local farmer’s market throughout the fall. Some grocery stores with a robust produce section may carry it during the fall and winter months.

Smoked paprika: this spice is one of my favorites – it adds a smokey, spicy, and subtle sweetness to these fries

Cumin: a warming spice, cumin adds an earthy, nutty flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need (affiliate links – if you make a purchase I receive a small commission)

Baking Sheet

or

Air Fryer (we have a Phillips XXL Air Fryer)

How to Make Kohlrabi Fries

Step 1: (if using the oven, preheat to 425 degrees F) Start by preparing your kohlrabi. Using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife, remove the outer tough peel.

Step 2: Cut the kohlrabi in half lengthwise. 

Step 3: Placing the cut side down, slice kohlrabi vertically into 1/2-inch slices.

Step 4: Cut slices of kohlrabi into 1/2-inch matchsticks.

Step 5: In a large mixing bowl, add kohlrabi, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and salt, and toss until kohlrabi is evenly coated.

For baked kohlrabi fries:

Step 6: Make sure your oven is preheated to 425 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place kohlrabi onto baking sheet and spread apart so that kohlrabi is evenly spaced out in a single layer.

Step 7: Bake kohlrabi, flipping halfway through, until tender and the edges have browned, about 25-30 minutes.

For air fryer kohlrabi fries:

Step 6: Place seasoned kohlrabi in the air fryer basket, shaking basket to space out the kohlrabi. 

Step 7: Set air fryer to 400 degrees F and cook, shaking basket every 5 minutes, until kohlrabi is tender and browned on the edges, about 12-17 minutes.

Expert Tips

Try to cut kohlrabi into evenly-sized matchsticks to ensure even cooking. If some fries are larger, these will take longer to cook, while the smaller ones will brown/burn faster.
Crowding the air fryer will result in a longer cooking time and more uneven cooking. Make sure the fries have some air pockets between them.

Recipe FAQs

What does kohlrabi taste like?

Kohlrabi tastes subtly sweet and a little peppery when eaten raw and its texture is similar to jicama or a turnip. You can eat the leaves of the kohlrabi plant too (as long as they look okay), which taste similar to collard greens.

Can you eat raw kohlrabi?

Yes! Raw kohlrabi is delicious thinly sliced or shaved and used in salads or slaws.

Are kohlrabi fries better in the oven or air fryer?

I personally like kohlrabi fries better when cooked in the air fryer but if you don’t have any air fryer, baked in the oven is delicious too!

Can I double this recipe?

You sure can! But you will need to adjust the cooking time. For the air fryer, you’ll likely need to double the cooking time, closer to 25-30 minutes. For the oven, you may need to use two baking sheets to ensure the fries have enough space on the pan to cook, or you may have to use a bigger baking sheet, or bake a little longer, closer to 35 minutes.

What dips/sauces can I serve kohlrabi fries with?

Any dip or sauce that you love! I personally thought these were fantastic when paired with a garlic aioli or a version of the kitchn’s 3-ingredient magic sauce – I used a combo of mayo, dijon mustard, and sriracha.

Do kohlrabi fries crisp up like regular fries?

To be honest, no. Kohlrabi fries get a little browned or slightly crispy at the ends but the longer you cook them, the more likely they are to burn as opposed to get crispier. I still find them tender and delicious even if they don’t get super crispy like french fries.

Can you reheat kohlrabi fries?

Sure! You can reheat fries in the microwave, oven, or air fryer but they’ll likely lose some of their firmness in the microwave.

How long do kohlrabi fries last for in the fridge?

Store kohlrabi fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure fries are completely cooled before storing in the fridge.

Can you freeze kohlrabi fries?

I wouldn’t freeze kohlrabi fries as they’ll lose their texture upon defrosting but if you want to freeze kohlrabi, I’d recommend blanching it before freezing.

Recipes That Pair Well

Baked BBQ Salmon

Air Fryer Salmon (Fresh or Frozen)

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Easy Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

Slow Cooked Salmon

For more vegetable inspiration, check out my other recipes below!

Zucchini Kohlrabi Fritters

Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings – Air Fryer or Oven

The Best Mexican Street Corn Dip

Crispy Thai Inspired Brussels Sprouts

Grilled Eggplant with Pecan Pesto

If you like this recipe, please be sure to comment and give it a 5 star rating below. If you make it, share it on Instagram and tag me @karalydonrd and I’ll re-share it with my followers! If you want to save this recipe for later, be sure to pin it on Pinterest!

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Harvest Italian Soup with Sausage (Easy Stovetop Recipe) – The Real Food Dietitians

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Have trouble determining what hunger and fullness feel like? Keep reading to learn how to use the Mindful Eating Hunger Scale to determine your hunger cues.

It sounds so simple, right? Eat when you’re hungry and stop eating when you’re full. But in reality, this oftentimes can be a lot easier said than done. There are so many day-to-day factors that can complicate these cues. From stress levels to work schedules and emotions, it’s so easy to confuse hunger cues with other cues. 

Getting to know your own hunger and satiety cues can help clear up this confusion. It gives you the power to identify and address other cues accordingly. 

Mindful Eating Hunger Cues

When eating mindfully, hunger cues are utilized to designate not only when to eat, but also how much. Our cues essentially let us know what we’re in need of as well as when.

Food is the body’s primary energy source. It’s what allows us to think clearly, build muscle, pump blood, breathe air, and do so much more. While we’re all performing these human functions on a daily basis, we’re doing so in a slightly different way, we’re all a bit unique. 

This is why hunger cues are so important. If the body is undergoing stress, fighting an infection or disease, performing physical labor, or engaging in more or less movement than normal, your body’s energy needs will differ. Your hunger cues reflect these needs. 

Now that we know what they are, how do we gauge and measure them? This is where the Mindful Eating Hunger Scale comes in. 

How To Use the Mindful Eating Hunger Scale 

This scale helps clarify some of the ambiguity that comes along with measuring hunger cues because it gives you numerical values to refer to. The hunger cues operate on a scale from 1 (so full you may feel unwell) to 10 (starving, weak, dizzy). The middle of the scale, 5, is where you feel content. You’re slightly full so you’re comfortable, you’re not in need of anything. 

 

Check-in With Your Hunger Cues 

The first step to using the scale is to get to know your own body. How does it communicate hunger? What about slight hunger? What does it feel like? And on the flip side, what does fullness feel like? 

In order to understand these cues, we have to really introduce mindfulness. To get started with this, throughout the day (before meals, during meals, and after meals), take note of where you are on the scale. Choose a numerical value that you feel accurately describes the degree to which you’re feeling hunger or satiety. 

The key here is to do this without judgment and with compassion. Will this be super easy the first time you try it? Probably not! But most things we learn to do are not. Remember that you’re quite literally teaching your body a new skill, and a subjective one at that. 

The more you check-in, and the more you pause and reflect, the easier it will be for you to notice your cues without even having to intentionally check in. 

Abide By Your Hunger Cues

After you go through the process of defining your cues, it’s time to start abiding by them. When you hear your body asking for food through hunger, do your best to grab something to eat. If you’re very hungry, make a full meal. If you’re slightly hungry, a snack will do just fine. 

Simply getting into the habit of abiding by your cues will take time as well. You may possibly have to shift some of your preexisting routines, eat a bit more or less than you previously were, but that’s quite alright. This is exactly what mindful eating entails.

When is it Okay to Eat When I’m Not Hungry?

But what happens when you end up wanting to eat something when you’re not feeling physical hunger? Does that mean you’re doing something wrong?

Nope, not in the slightest. You may be surprised to hear this, but there are plenty of reasons to eat even when you aren’t. This may be enjoying dessert after dinner or eating to give your body nourishment even if something like stress is suppressing your hunger.

With mindful eating, it’s all about being mindful and having heightened awareness of why you’re eating. That way, you can choose the best option for you at any given moment. You may say to yourself, “I’m not that hungry, but I would actually enjoy that dessert right now.”

On the other hand, you may say, “I notice that I’m not actually hungry, but I really want a snack.” In this case, we want to pull that mindfulness in to determine why. Is it because you’re mindfully, and intentionally excited to eat said item? Or on the other hand, are you experiencing another emotion that you may previously have used food to cope with?

When our eating choices aren’t mindful or intentional, where they’re used to cope or conceal, we want to try to find alternative, more productive coping mechanisms that directly address the emotion at hand. 

Whatever it may look like for you, this awareness can help you make intentional, mindful choices.

The Takeaway

The mindful eating hunger scale is a great tool that you can use to build your mindful eating skills. If you’re struggling to decipher where satiety starts and hunger stops, give the exercises we discussed a try. And remember! Take it slowly. 

Do You Want to Experience More Balance with your Food Choices?

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, STYLECASTER may receive an affiliate commission.

Everyone and their grandmas know that retinol is a miracle worker for combatting visible signs of aging. You probably already incorporate the ingredient into your skincare routine via a serum or moisturizer, but you might be missing out big time on a sensitive area that requires just as much attention. Similar to how retinol increases cell turnover and promotes collagen production for the skin on your face—which are both crucial for fighting wrinkles—it also has the same effect on your under-eye area.

Enter: Neutrogena’s Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Eye Cream. It minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, evens skin tone, fights dullness, smooths texture and fades dark spots. Soooo basically, it’s heaven in a tube—and it’s all yours for $14 ahead of October Prime Day. In fact, the product was 28 percent off before last Prime Day, but it’s 34 percent off this time around. That means you’ve got to secure this steal, stat.

“I am 54, but everyone guesses I’m in my late ’30s to early ’40s,” raved one five-star reviewer. “The fine lines are magically disappearing! It is the best I’ve ever used.”

Turn back the clock with the Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Eye Cream and let the potent yet gentle formula erase your fine lines and crow’s feet for just $14.

RELATED: The Eye Cream Making Shoppers’ Eye Bags and Fine Lines ‘Disappear’ Is Miraculously 45% Off Ahead of Prime Day

The anti-wrinkle cream stands up to fine lines, dullness and dark spots all at once. Targeted toward the sensitive under-eye area, dark circles and wrinkles can now be a thing of the past—sans irritation. Besides incorporating the do-it-all retinol, the bestseller also leans on hyaluronic acid to hydrate and plump the skin, which is just as important for tackling visible signs of aging.

The formula provides results in just one week, according to the brand—and shoppers can confirm the rapid anti-aging benefits are true.

“The dark circles under my eyes are noticeably brighter with a single [day’s] use, and I look so much better too!” wrote one reviewer. 

“Went two weeks without and the fine lines and undereye bags returned. Been using for a week and VAST improvement,” wrote another reviewer. “I’m 50 and [people] seriously think I am in [my] late 30s, early 40s.”

Don’t skip out on tending to your delicate under eyes; they deserve quality skincare products, too! Start with Neutrogena’s Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Eye Cream that’s just $14 on Amazon.

More Early Prime Day 2022 Deals to Shop: 

If you’re looking for the latest in skincare solutions, you’ve come to the right place. Our philosophy at Mario Badescu Skin Care has always been simple, gentle and effective skincare. And although we have some fan-favorite formulations which have been bestsellers for years, we’re always looking to expand our selection with new and exciting products.

To that end, we’ve recently announced four amazing new skincare products. Two are available right now, so you can add them to your cart and start enjoying fantastic skin benefits in no time. The other two will launch later this month, giving you even more reason to look forward to what we have in store.

Here’s a look at our latest products, including details about how these new skincare solutions can be incorporated into your daily regimen. 

Drying Patch

When you have a blemish pop up unexpectedly, our Mario Badescu Drying Patch is ready to come to your rescue. This clear, single-use adhesive patch can be applied directly to the blemish for on-the-go treatment. Each patch is extremely thin, so it stays discreetly in place all day long. The non-drying formula is perfect for zapping zits on the spot while soothing skin. With a detoxifying blend of Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid, it provides the perfect balance of targeted blemish-busting power and nourishing hydration.

For the best results, use the Mario Badescu Drying Lotion overnight, come morning – cleanse and tone your skin before applying the Drying Patch on the blemish.

Facial Spray with Aloe, Adaptogens and Coconut Water

For an all-in-one solution that helps to replenish and protect your skin throughout the day, use the new Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Adaptogens and Coconut Water. A simple spritz or two of this multi-purpose spray is a great way to feel refreshed — but that’s only the beginning of what this amazing product can do. 

This fragrance-, dye- and alcohol-free facial mist also helps to combat free radicals that can contribute to aging skin. It helps to balance and de-stress skin and leave you with a wonderfully radiant, dewy and youthful glow. Ingredients in this exciting new formulation include Coconut Water, Aloe Vera, a blend of Adaptogens, Sodium Hyaluronate and Niacinamide, all of which contribute to superior hydration and skin nourishment.

Use the Facial Spray with Aloe, Adaptogens and Coconut Water as needed on your face, neck or hair for a refreshing boost throughout the day. It can also be used to give your makeup a dewy finish when you spritz your brush or sponge before blending in your foundation or concealer.

Coconut Body Butter and Coconut Body Scrub-Add Coconut Body Soap and Body Oil

Our Mario Badescu Coconut Body Butter and Coconut Body Scrub are the most recent additions to our Bath and Body collection. They’re designed to help perfect your skin from head to toe, creating a silky-smooth feel that’s irresistibly touchable. Plus, both products feature a fresh coconut scent that uplifts you throughout the day. 

These two products are planned for release in the near future, so check back soon to add them to your cart. Trust us — you won’t want to miss out on these skin-beautifying products.

Follow along on our blog to find out about more new products as they’re released along with helpful skincare tips and more.

Categories: Skin Care |
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There are many buzzwords in beauty, but few have arrived on the scene with as much force as “serum.” Almost overnight it seemed like the three-step cleanse-tone-moisturize system was abandoned in favor of a more elaborate skin care routine involving this mysterious new liquid. Many of us still are shaky on what serums actually do and when they should be worked into our routines. Don’t worry, you don’t need an esthetician’s licence to understand serums. Not only are they simple to use, they’re even easier to understand as we break down the purpose of using a serum and how to apply it. 

What Does A Serum Do? | Difference Between Serums, Concentrates & Facial Oils | How To Use A Serum In My Routine | Different Types Of Serums

What Is A Serum & What Does A Serum Do?

We’ve had cleansers and moisturizers since the dawn of time, but there were no products that addressed skin concerns by delivering high concentrations of ingredients. Enter: serums. Packed with actives, botanicals and antioxidants like Vitamin C, A and E, serums target specific skin concerns like dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles or acne.

In terms of texture, serums are generally water-based and come in liquid or gel form, making them incredibly lightweight. While many moisturizers are so emollient that they can only sit on the outer layers of the skin, serums absorb quickly into the deeper layers of the skin. They’re non-comedogenic, which means they don’t block pores or leave any residue, but their molecules are also small enough to really penetrate pores and work their magic from the inside out. As such, they’re able to target your skin concerns with impressive precision, and are known to be among the most effective topical skin care products on the market. In short: Serums get you what you want out of your skin, and faster. 

What’s The Difference Between Serums, Concentrates & Facial Oils? 

Serum is often mistaken with another late arrival: face oil. While they might be from the same family, serums and oils are very distant cousins and not to be confused. Remember those small molecules in serums? Well, the molecules in oils are often much larger, although there can be a variation in size. While facial oils are chock-full of antioxidants, nutrients and fatty acids that nourish the skin, the oils with larger molecules will sit on the outer layer of skin. Other oils, like jojoba, have a smaller molecular size and can penetrate the skin deeply. Facial oils that absorb easily can be applied before your moisturizer, whereas other oils, which sit on the skin, can be used as the final flourish of nutrition and protection from environmental stressors. 

If oils are serum’s cousins, what does that make concentrates? Well, more of an older sister. While the two products are very similar in appearance and consistency, a concentrate usually only offers an intensified dosage of one ingredient (read: Vitamin C or rosehip) to address one particular skin issue. Serums can target a multitude of concerns at once, like acne, hyperpigmentation, redness, wrinkles and dryness. For those looking to revitalize their skin with a one-two punch, serums and concentrates can be used in conjunction with each other. 

How To Use A Serum In My Routine 

Now we’ve covered the what and why, you’re probably wondering how and when to apply a serum. The serum step falls right after you cleanse, exfoliate, tone and apply an essence. You can use a serum morning and night with your regular skin care routine to achieve stellar results. Ensure you start with a freshly-washed face so that your skin is free from product or daily build-up, which allows serum to more effectively penetrate the outer layers of the skin. You can use a toner and essence, but nothing more emollient should come in between your cleansed face and the product. If you’re using multiple serums to address different skin needs, start with the lightest formula and work your way up to the heaviest — the same principle of the remainder of your skin care products. 

You only need to apply a thin layer because serums are concentrated — a small, pea-sized amount should do. Serums can also be applied to your neck and chest, to fight the visible signs of aging. For even more detailed information, read this guide on how to apply serums, oils and concentrates. Or watch this In The Mix video that explains what a serum is used for and how to fit one into your skin care routine. 

Different Types Of Serums: Which One Is For Me?

Whether you’re wrestling with aging, sensitivity or breakouts, Eminence Organics Senior Product Development Manager Colette Lieberman has a serum to suit any skin concern.

Perhaps you’re dealing with dull, dehydrated skin instead? Botanical hyaluronic acid (from marshmallow plant extract) is deeply hydrating as well as the delicious-smelling strawberry. You may be surprised to learn that strawberry is a great serum ingredient that contains salicylic acid to gently exfoliate and remove impurities to brighten the look of skin and shrink the appearance of pores.

Worried about wrinkles? If you’re hoping to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, choose a serum with peptides which can significantly smooth the skin’s appearance. Algae extract is another ingredient to search for as it is nutrient rich and contains vitamins, minerals, and amino-acids to increase the look of firmness on the skin and minimize the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. 

Citrus fruit oils are a useful serum ingredient to tone and refresh the skin. They are sourced from naturally occurring Vitamin C that helps protect skin against the visible signs of aging.

If skin has lost its natural radiance and luminosity, it may be because of a compromised skin barrier due to an unbalanced microbiome. You can apply probiotic skin care such as a serum that contains pre, pro* and postbiotics. These ingredients are important for restoring the microbiome and enhance the skin’s luminosity.

Stabilized Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) brightens the look of skin and minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as does Vitamin C salt (also referred to as Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate). Both versions of Vitamin C can assist with improving the appearance of the skin. For fighting the appearance of hormonal problem skin, organic phytoestrogens are active ingredients that can help target problem areas as well as the visible signs of aging. Remember, you never have to stop at one serum — layer according to your needs, and enjoy a fully refreshed visage.

Do you have a good understanding of the differences between serums and other products? Find out which Eminence Organics serum targets your specific skin concern in our guide. You can also visit your favorite authorized Eminence Organics Spa Partner to learn about serums, oils and concentrates.

This article was originally written in March 2021.

When it comes to clear pores and balanced oil production, exfoliation is an essential element of any skincare routine. After cleansing, toning, and exfoliating, however, it’s important to hydrate and protect the skin. There are countless products on the market that provide these benefits individually, but there’s also one ingredient that packs a one-two punch of exfoliation AND hydration: lactic acid.

Lactic acid plays several key roles in supporting the function of cells, tissues, and organs in the body. It’s an energy source for mitochondria, a signaling molecule, and a precursor for glucose production.

What does that have to do with skincare?

Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that is commonly used in over-the-counter skincare products to remove dead skin cells, correct hyperpigmentation, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Here’s everything you need to know about lactic acid in skincare.

What is Lactic Acid?

As previously mentioned, lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid – one of the most popular over-the-counter AHAs, in fact. It’s also used in professional-strength spa products. This AHA provides both exfoliating and hydrating benefits – it can even stimulate collagen production.

Before lactic acid was integrated into modern skincare products, it was used around the world for skincare in its most natural form. Dairy products are rich in lactic acid. It’s what gives soured milk its distinctive smell and tang. Milk baths have long been a popular treatment to soften and beautify the skin. Today, however, lactic acid can be found in many skincare products.

What Benefits Does It Have for Skin?

The primary skin benefits of lactic acid are linked to its exfoliating and hydrating properties. What makes this AHA so popular is the fact that it can facilitate noticeable change in the skin when used regularly. It’s also one of the more gentle hydroxy acids found in skincare products.

Here’s an overview of some of the benefits this AHA can provide:

Lactic acid helps remove dead cells from the skin’s surface by dissolving the bonds that bind them together – in other words, it acts as an exfoliator.
It can reduce the visible signs of aging by stimulating collagen renewal when used regularly.
This AHA speeds up cell turnover and cell renewal. It can give you a brighter complexion with smoother, softer skin by replacing old cells with new cells.
Lactic acid helps strengthen the skin’s natural moisture barrier to protect against dry skin.
It can be beneficial for individuals struggling with keratosis pilaris. It helps dissolve the plugs that form around the hair follicle, creating “chicken skin” bumps.

While lactic acid is gentler than many AHAs, it is still a very strong treatment and should be used with caution. Potential side effects include sun sensitivity, skin irritation, redness, burning, or swelling. Individuals with very sensitive skin should avoid lactic acid and this AHA should not be combined with the use of topical retinoids.

Popular Yon-Ka Products that Contain Lactic Acid

Lactic acid can be found in several different types of skincare products. Leave-on treatments like creams, serums, and lotions with lactic acid should be used as directed to avoid sun damage, and wearing sunscreen daily is a must. If you’re looking for a stronger dose, try a peel or mask.

Here are some popular Yon-Ka products containing lactic acid to consider:

Alpha-Peel – This anti-wrinkle night concentrate gel helps refine, refresh, and revitalize the complexion overnight. The lactic acid in the product offers exfoliation benefits which pair perfectly with the renewing and hydrating benefits of Alpha-Fluide
Essential White Solution Clarte – Formulated to treat dark spots and pigmentation, this solution is a brightening and exfoliating treatment. The lactic acid it contains is included for its exfoliating benefits and for helping unify the complexion. For best results, use in conjunction with the Essential White collection of products.
Juvenil – This purifying anti-blemish concentrate provides a balanced approach to treating imperfections. The lactic acid in this product acts as a post-biotic to help balance the skin’s pH and support healthy microflora.
SOS Spot – Designed as a roll-on treatment, this product purifies the skin of acne-causing bacteria and offers post-biotic benefits to protect the skin’s healthy microflora. The lactic acid in this product also helps balance the skin’s pH.
Hydra+ Booster – Hydrating for all skin types, this booster is intended to be added to your usual moisturizer. The lactic acid in this product helps to soften and hydrate the skin.

Please consult your Yon-Ka trained esthetician for the best recommendations of how to use lactic acid in your skin care routine.

If you’re familiar with my skincare line, you’re probably also familiar with Triple Berry Smoothing Peel. This best-selling product is loved by beauty editors, celebrity clients, and customers alike, thanks to its ability to target a multitude of skin concerns at once. Whether it’s enlarged or clogged pores, breakouts, hyperpigmentation, uneven texture, or dull-looking skin, this peel can work wonders! 

After being out of stock for over a year (and amassing almost a 5,000-person waitlist!), I’m so happy to announce that Triple Berry Smoothing Peel is back! It has the same brightening antioxidant berry blend and the same great exfoliating benefits, and it still looks and smells just like raspberry jam. However, we gave the formula some exciting new updates. In this post, I’ll share them with you in detail. Let’s dive in.

Why Triple Berry Was Out of Stock

Like so many other companies, we were hit with supply chain disruptions at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. These disruptions led to one of the ingredients used in Triple Berry Smoothing Peel being discontinued. The ingredient was a unique polymer that was used to thicken the formula and give the peel its signature, jelly-like formula. This polymer was very difficult to replicate, so it took time.  

Finding out an important ingredient in one of your best-selling products is unavailable is not a good feeling, but I knew I had to pivot quickly and figure out the next steps. I asked myself, “Where can I find the silver lining in this?” After going through the options, I decided the best course of action was to reformulate Triple Berry Smoothing Peel. It’s been over ten years since I first launched this product (how time flies!), and one thing I’m very committed to is making sure the products in my line are up to date. While I never formulate based on what’s trendy, I always want to make use of the best and latest innovations in skincare when appropriate. I decided this was the perfect opportunity to reevaluate Triple Berry and modernize the formulation. 

While it took longer than I would’ve liked, it was incredibly important to me to get this reformulation exactly right. I went through so many samples and versions with our lab until, finally, we came up with something I was proud to put out into the world. I know it’s been a long road, and I can’t say how much I appreciate our wonderful customers for being patient with us!

Meet the New Formula

When I initially started thinking about this reformulation, the first step was to take into account all the feedback we’d gotten about the peel over the years. One of the biggest complaints we heard over and over again was that it wasn’t pregnancy-safe due to the inclusion of salicylic acid. Anyone who’s been pregnant knows hormonal shifts can send breakouts and hyperpigmentation into overdrive, and Triple Berry is perfect for those concerns. We wanted to make sure the peel was accessible to all of our customers, so, step one was to remove salicylic acid, making it pregnancy-safe.

Note: If you still want to use salicylic acid in your routine, I suggest using an exfoliating acid serum, such as the BHA Clarifying Serum or the Pore + Wrinkle Perfecting Serum. These can be used on exfoliation nights when you aren’t using the peel. 

Additionally, you can use the Rapid Response Detox Masque after rinsing off Triple Berry Smoothing Peel. These two products have been so effective for managing breakouts when used together. If you have the time and want to take it a step further, use this peel/mask duo as part of an at-home facial.

Say Hello to the New Ingredients

To ensure the peel was still great for combatting breakouts and clogged pores, I then opted to add a few new exfoliating acids. The main way this peel fights breakouts and congestion is by removing dead skin cells that can fall into the lining of your pores and cause blockages.

Next, I decided to add an exciting new ingredient that would take this peel to the next level in terms of fading hyperpigmentation. I also chose to add a few more soothing ingredients to help keep the skin comfortable. 

Here’s a breakdown of all the new ingredients.

Phytic Acid

First is phytic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid naturally found in certain grains and legumes (though for skincare purposes, it’s synthesized in a lab). It’s been shown effective in reducing acne and enlarged pores, and it’s also helpful for combatting post-breakout marks and fine lines.

Gluconolactone

Gluconolactone is a PHA, which stands for poly-hydroxy acid. This group of exfoliating acids works in the same way AHAs and BHAs do, but they have a larger molecule size so they’re more gentle. Gluconolactone also hydrates the skin while it exfoliates.

PHAs were originally patented by the brand NeoStrata around 1994, which meant they had exclusive rights to use them in skincare formulations. That patent expired a few years ago, which means PHAs are now fair game and can be used by other skincare formulators such as myself. Exciting!

Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate (Azelaic Acid)

Pronouncing this one is no easy feat, but potassium azeloyl diglycinate is actually just a derivative of azelaic acid. Azelaic acid is known for improving acne and calming redness and irritation (it’s even used in some prescriptions for rosacea). It’s also been proven very effective at fading hyperpigmentation.

The reason we chose to go with a derivative instead of azelaic acid itself is that, from a cosmetic chemistry standpoint, azelaic acid is very hard to work with. It’s difficult to stabilize unless it’s used in very minimalistic formulas—basically, it doesn’t play well with other active ingredients.

Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate is a fairly new ingredient, and it’s just as beneficial for addressing hyperpigmentation. Whether it’s hormonally-driven, like melasma, or caused by sun damage or past breakouts, this ingredient can help. Used consistently, it encourages brighter-looking, more even-toned skin.

Allantoin and Mirabilis Jalapa Extract

Allantoin and Mirabilis jalapa are both excellent soothing ingredients, and they’re definitely the cherry on top of all these great, new additions to Triple Berry Smoothing Peel. My goal is always to create effective products that make a noticeable change in the skin without irritating it, so adding these ingredients was key.

In addition to adding more soothing ingredients, I really wanted to go the extra mile to make sure this peel would be safe for all 9 Skin Types to use. I opted to have it go through clinical testing, where it was administered to over 50 participants. Their reactions were monitored, and I’m happy to say none of them were adverse. 

Even though this peel has been clinically demonstrated to be non-irritating, everyone is different. We always recommend patch testing a new product before using it for the first time. Even if you used the previous version of Triple Berry Smoothing Peel, it’s a good idea to patch-test this one.

This reformulation has been a labor of love. After over a year of research and testing, I’m thrilled to send it out into the world. I can’t wait for you to try it, and I hope you love it as much as I do. If you want to know more about how to use Triple Berry Smoothing Peel, check out the FAQs on the product page.

Use up all your CSA veggies with easy-to-make fritters. These zucchini kohlrabi carrot fritters with herb yogurt sauce make for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.

Veggie fritters are my new saving grace. Since we started getting our weekly CSA boxes this summer, I’ve had to step up my meal planning game. By planning out our dinners for the week in advance, I make sure no CSA veg gets left behind. Otherwise, it’s food waste city up in here and we can’t have that.

The last two weekends in a row, we’ve had family and friends visiting and staying with us, which meant eating out won over cooking at home. That left me with a TON of veggies to use in just a few days until our next CSA pick up. The solution?

FRITTERS!

Fritters to the rescue, my friends. You can grate up almost any veggie combination, mix it with some spices, egg, and flour and fry those babies up like there’s no tomorrow. Easy peasy.

 

This week I had an abundance of zucchini, kohlrabi, carrots, and spring onion so they ALL went into the fritter batter.

I almost forgot the most important reason that I love fritters – it transforms the veggies. Full disclosure, I’m not the biggest zucchini fan. I know, veggie blasphemy. But I’ve discovered that if I grate zucchini and throw it into fritters or tacos or sauce, I totally dig it. Problem solved. If there’s a veggie that you’re not over the moon for, try grating it into a fritter and see what you think!

Never heard of kohlrabi? It looks and tastes like a turnip but it’s a little sweeter and milder in flavor. Kohlrabi hails from the brassica family, which is known for its chronic-disease fighting antioxidants. It’s an excellent source of vitamin K and vitamin C (contains more vitamin C than orange juice!) and a good source of fiber. There’s lots you can do in the kitchen with kohlrabi:

thinly slice and eat raw with a yogurt dip
shred into a slaw or salad
roast it in the oven
sauté it (you can sauté the leaves too!)
puree into a soup
shred it into fritters!

I love the crispy exterior of these fritters – it makes for a seriously satisfying meal. And paired with a bright lemony herb yogurt dressing, it’s legit. 
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Tell me, have you ever made veggie fritters? Do you have a go-to meal to use up all your vegetables?