What Are Coconut Aminos? Health Benefits and How To Use

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Love being the first to know about new trends? Then you’ll want to know about black seed oil. While not a new ingredient, black seed oil, also known as black cumin seed oil, has recently become a highly sought-after ingredient in skin care  — and for good reason. 

This ancient herbal oil, which graced Cleopatra’s skin, has been traditionally used across the Middle East, Africa and Asia; and is now gaining global recognition for its remarkable benefits for the skin. Let’s explore its varied applications and gain practical insights on how to integrate black seed oil into your daily skin care routine.

What Is Black Seed Oil? | Beauty Benefits | Health Benefits | How To Use | Supplements

What Is Black Seed Oil? 

Black Seed, an annual flowering plant, originates from Western Asia and parts of Europe (mainly Bulgaria and Romania). Ancient civilizations, including those of Egypt and Mesopotamia, valued black seed for its versatility, using it not only in cuisine but also for its medicinal properties. The real magic lies within its fruit, which houses numerous small, black, triangular seeds that contain powerhouse nutrients, such as linoleic acid, oleic acid and thymoquinone. Packed with antioxidants, antibacterial properties and omega fatty acids, black seed oil can be used to fight acne and reduce clogged pores as well as a source of hydration. Let’s delve into the specific beauty benefits of black seed and how its oil can be a transformative element in your skin care routine.

Beauty Benefits of Black Seed Oil

Worried about clogged pores? While some oils have a reputation for making congestion worse, there’s no need to stress with black seed oil. Thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, black seed oil can clear symptoms associated with clogged pores — think excessive oil production and blemish formation. Azadeh Shirazi, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist tells Forbes that black seed oil can potentially alleviate symptoms of skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo and acne. Black seed oil is also renowned for its benefits for your hair and scalp health. The phytochemicals in black seed oil reinforce hair strands from the roots to the tips, reducing breakage and split ends, while also providing hydration to revitalize dry and brittle hair.

To understand the wizardry of black seed, we should look at its core components. The two most prominent are linoleic acid and thymoquinone. Linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid, reduces excess sebum production that can lead to acne, possibly owing to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory qualities. Meanwhile, thymoquinone takes on the role of a guardian against blemishes, providing a preventive measure for clearer skin. Thymoquinone is known for its antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which bolsters the oil’s capability for reducing the appearance of clogged pores. Together, these components help to tackle the look of clogged pores and reduce their formation. 

Health Benefits of Black Seed Oil

While there is limited research on the health impacts of black seed oil, existing studies suggest it might have beneficial effects. The following are some notable insights from the current research, according to Healthline: 

Enhances wound healing
Supports hair health maintenance
Aids in acne reduction
Assists in reducing inflammation
Improves blood sugar management
Contributes to vitiligo treatment
Alleviates symptoms of eczema
Assists in psoriasis treatment
Lowers the risk of metabolic syndrome

With these potential health impacts of black seed oil in mind, let’s explore how you can effectively integrate it into your skin care routine.

How To Use Black Seed In Your Skin Care Routine

Now that you know the benefits of using black seed oil, here are some tips for incorporating black seed oil into your routine:

Patch Test First: Before applying black seed oil to your face or body, do a patch test on a small area of skin.
Use To Treat Your Scalp: You can also apply black seed oil to your scalp before shampooing to nourish your scalp and promote healthy hair growth.
Dilute The Oil: If you’re using black seed oil directly, consider diluting it with a carrier oil like coconut, jojoba, or sweet almond oil, especially if you have sensitive skin. 
Dab Blemishes With A Cotton Swab: Due to its antimicrobial properties, black seed oil can be dabbed onto acne spots with a cotton swab to help reduce inflammation and clear up blemishes. Please consult your dermatologist before applying this oil to your skin. 
If You Have Skin Conditions: Similarly, if you have conditions like eczema or psoriasis, please consult your dermatologist before applying this oil to your skin. 

Supplements: How Much Black Seed Oil Should I Take? 

Doing a patch test for new skin care products is sufficient for most, but when it comes to ingesting black seed oil, we recommend consulting a doctor before starting any supplement to confirm that it’s suitable for your personal health needs.

Typically, adults can consume 1 to 2.5 grams of black seed oil orally each day for a period ranging from four to 12 weeks. Alternatively, black seed powder is commonly taken at doses of one to two grams daily for eight to 12 weeks. To establish the most effective dosage for a particular health condition, it’s advised to speak with a healthcare professional.

Is Black Seed Right for You?

With its historical accolades and contemporary acclaim, black seed offers an alluring proposition. While black seed is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, it’s essential to be mindful of potential allergies, either when ingesting it or when applied topically. For those who are pregnant, breastfeeding or on medication, it’s vital to seek medical advice before incorporating black seed into your routine. 

Are you looking to improve blemished skin or change up your skin care routine with natural products? Visit your local Eminence Organics Spa Partner to find out how.

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole (Low Carb) – The Real Food Dietitians

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We all know that beauty sleep is a real thing. Getting enough hours in dreamland can benefit your health in several ways, many of which show up on your skin. Besides the obvious reduction in dark circles and the rejuvenation that can come with quality sleep, there are many other beauty perks that can be attributed to a healthy sleep schedule. Skin repairs and regenerates overnight, so the skin care products you apply before bed can be extra effective during a nice, long slumber.  

Part of good sleep hygiene is the environment created in the bedroom, from temperature to humidity levels, scents and bedding — and silk pillowcases are having a moment right now because they offer unique beauty benefits. These luxurious bedding essentials are not only a treat for the senses, but also offer a range of advantages for your hair and skin. Let’s explore how silk pillowcases can level up your beauty routine and enhance your overall well-being while you sleep!

What Is Silk? | How Silk Pillowcases Benefit Skin | How Silk Pillowcases Benefit Hair | Additional Benefits Of Silk Pillowcases | Vegan Silk | How To Choose And Care For Silk 

What Is Silk? 

Silk is the strongest natural fiber used in the world of textiles. It consists mainly of a protein called fibroin, which is what certain types of insect larvae secrete to make their cocoons. Most of the world’s genuine silk comes from Bombyx mori larvae, which are worms that live on mulberry trees. These days, silkworms are bred and silk is manufactured in factories, but the basic process used to make the fabric has stayed very close to its origins, dating back to ancient China thousands of years ago. Prized for both its softness and durability, the fabric is considered a luxury by many and is used to manufacture everything from scarves to dresses, lingerie and curtains.

The benefits of silk for the skin have long been understood but have only become mainstream in the last few decades. Because silk is more expensive to manufacture than synthetic fabrics and other natural materials like cotton, silk bedding was considered extravagant. These days, thanks in part to social media trends, silk pillowcases have become more popular and their price points more attainable. 

How Silk Pillowcases Benefit Skin

Gentle To The Touch 

If you’ve had the pleasure of feeling silk in person, then you know that it has an incredibly gentle and soft feel. No wonder it provides such a delicate touch to your skin as you sleep! Unlike other common bedding fabrics that can cause irritation (linen and polyester, among others), silk pillowcases offer a smooth and soothing surface that minimizes friction (aka tugging on the skin as you toss and turn). This reduces the risk of skin irritation, which is especially helpful for those with sensitive skin or those with inflammatory skin conditions like eczema or acne. 

Reduce Facial Wrinkles And Sleep Lines

That smooth texture allows your skin to slide easily against the pillowcase, reducing the formation of sleep lines and wrinkles. With regular use, silk pillowcases can help maintain a more youthful and refreshed appearance and let you wake up to fewer creases etched into your forehead or cheeks. While your facial wrinkles won’t reduce overnight, you may wake up with a smoother-looking face thanks to a reduction in the sleep lines that other fabrics can cause. This is especially true for side and stomach sleepers!

Help Maintain Skin Hydration 

Silk pillowcases provide moisture-preserving properties for skin. Not only does this textile help maintain the natural moisture of your skin and prevent excessive drying, it’s less likely to absorb moisture from the skin — including any skin care products you loaded up on before hitting the sheets. This can be especially beneficial for those with dry or sensitive skin, especially in winter months. By allowing more of the hydration to stay on the skin and not get wiped away, silk pillowcases contribute to a healthier and more radiant complexion.

How Silk Pillowcases Benefit Hair

Reduce Frizz And Breakage

Because silk is naturally smoother than other fabrics, resting your strands on the soft surface of silk pillowcases minimizes friction against your hair, reducing frizz and breakage. Unlike cotton or other rough fabrics that can cause hair to snag and tangle, silk allows your hair to glide gently as you sleep, keeping your locks smooth and manageable.

Retain Moisture In The Hair

Just like on the skin, silk helps the natural oils stay in your hair, preventing dryness and promoting healthy, hydrated strands. By preserving moisture, silk pillowcases can help reduce hair damage and promote overall hair health. And since you spend about one third of your life with your head on the pillow, this can make a big difference in the moisture and hydration levels of your hair.    

Prevent Tangles And Bedhead

Tossing and turning during sleep can lead to tangled hair and messy bedhead in the morning. The soft and smooth surface of silk pillowcases allows your hair to glide effortlessly, minimizing tangles and helping you wake up with a smoother mane. 

Additional Benefits of Silk Pillowcases

Hypoallergenic Properties

Silk is naturally hypoallergenic, making it an excellent choice for anyone with sensitive skin or allergies. Silk pillowcases are less likely than cotton or synthetic fabrics to harbor dust mites, bacteria and other allergens, providing a cleaner and healthier sleep environment. That being said, there are a lot of other spots where these nasty things can hide. Make sure you regularly wash your sheets and that you add a mattress protector to the mix. 

Temperature Regulation

Silk has the ability to regulate temperature, keeping you cool in hot weather and warm in colder climates. And unlike cotton and flannel which are known to absorb moisture like sweat, silk does not. This can contribute to a more comfortable and restful sleep, allowing your skin to rejuvenate overnight. 

Longevity, Durability And Comfort

In addition to their luxe feel and many benefits, silk pillowcases are also known for their durability and longevity. With proper care, they can retain their luxurious feel for an extended period, making them a worthwhile investment for your beauty routine.

Vegan Silk

There are vegan alternatives to silk that can emulate the luxurious texture of traditional silk without relying on silk-producing insects. Plant-based alternatives include Tencel, which is derived from the pulp of eucalyptus trees and provides most of the same benefits of silk, including the soft, slippery feel, durability and hypoallergenic properties. Other plant-based silks come from pineapple fiber, banana fiber and bamboo.

Tips for Choosing And Caring For Silk Pillowcases

Types of Silk to Look For

When selecting silk pillowcases, opt for high-quality mulberry or charmeuse silk. These varieties are known for their smoothness, durability and superior quality.

Washing and Care Instructions

Silk pillowcases require gentle care to preserve their softness and luster. It is recommended to hand wash them using a mild detergent or machine wash on a delicate cycle with cold water. Avoid the use of bleach or harsh chemicals that may damage the silk fibers. Air drying is the best method to maintain the integrity of the silk fabric.

Have you experienced the numerous benefits of silk pillowcases? Leave a note in our comments or join the conversation on social media. 

Easy Baked Tacos (5 Ingredients, 30 Minutes) – The Real Food Dietitians

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Ever wondered how to turn your daily shower into a spa-like retreat? The “Everything Shower” goes beyond a quick wash. This popular wellness TikTok trend has encouraged us to transform the regular shower into a luxurious, multi-step experience. But, in this era of environmental consciousness, we need a sustainable twist. Enter the “Eco-Friendly Everything Shower.” This approach combines the rejuvenating experience of the Everything Shower with eco-friendly practices like using natural, sustainable products or water conservation methods. In this guide, we will explore how to transform your shower routine into an indulgent yet environmentally responsible ritual.

What Is An Everything Shower?

This ritual is more than just cleansing; it’s a therapeutic spa session that you give yourself at home so that you can unwind and pamper yourself from head to toe — think a nourishing hair mask, facial cleansing and all-over exfoliation — to nurture every inch of your body. Keep in mind, the Everything Shower isn’t all about spending every minute under the flowing water or soaking in the tub. That would rack up quite a water bill and isn’t exactly eco-friendly. Instead, it’s about creating a personal spa experience right in the comfort of your home both in and out of the shower over the course of 1-2 hours.  

Rather than rushing through a shower while on autopilot, we’re going to show you how to turn the ordinary shower into a relaxing wellness ritual. But before we dive into the steps, you may want to know how to turn the Everything Shower into an eco-friendly routine.

The Benefits of an Eco-Friendly Everything Shower

Incorporating eco-friendly practices into your Everything Shower is much easier than it sounds. You might consider using water-efficient showerheads, for example, which are designed to minimize the amount of water used. Or you could simply take shorter showers, turning off the water while shampooing. That way you significantly cut down on water consumption, which is not only good for the environment but can also reduce your water bills. 

You might also want to think about the skin care products you purchase. One of the steps in this routine is exfoliating your body. If you’re using plastic loofahs to apply exfoliating washes, these are surprisingly pretty high on the list of waste culprits because they can’t be recycled. Luckily, the humble washcloth is a fantastic swap and, chances are, you’ve already got a stash of these at home. When they’ve lived their best life, you can either compost them if they’re 100% cotton or repurpose them into handy cleaning rags.​ Something else you could do is replace disposable plastic razors with metal safety razors. It’s a one-time purchase where you only need to replace the metal blades — recyclable and cheaper in the long run.

Step-by-Step Guide to an Eco-Friendly Everything Shower

Below, our Product Support Team has shared a detailed guide on conducting an environmentally-conscious Everything Shower.

Pre-shower Steps:

Set The Atmosphere

Before diving into the Everything Shower, transform your bathroom into a sanctuary by setting the right atmosphere. Lighting candles and incense and selecting your favorite music helps to create a serene environment. Choose relaxing music, like a gentle acoustic playlist, tranquil nature sounds or even your favorite mellow artist. 

Cleanse Your Face

You’ve set the mood but, before you step into the shower, you need to cleanse your face thoroughly to remove the buildup of oil, dirt or grime on your skin. The Product Support Team recommends the Kombucha Microbiome Foaming Cleanser (suitable for all skin types) in tandem with the Herbal Eye Make-up Remover. Crafted with targeted micellar technology, this liquid-to-foam cleanser refreshes the look of the skin without over-stripping moisture. At the same time, the Herbal Eye Make-up Remover is formulated to gently remove makeup. 

Do A Pre-shower Hair Mask 

After cleansing your face, give your hair and scalp some attention by using a hair oil treatment, massaging a generous amount right into the roots to nourish and strengthen the scalp. Then, apply a deep-conditioning mask for the ends of your hair, which often need extra attention. Let both sit for around 15 to 20 minutes while you continue to prep for your shower.

Dry Brush

Before you jump into the shower, take a moment for dry brushing. It’s an incredible way to get your circulation going and give your skin a little wakeup call. Using a dry brush with a handle is perfect for those hard-to-reach areas like your back. You can read the full guide to dry brushing here.

Shower Steps:

Body Scrub

Now for the fun part! Once you’re in the shower, smooth and exfoliate the skin across your entire body by using a body scrub, something gentle like our Stone Crop Revitalizing Body Scrub. This resurfacing exfoliant contains hydrating stone crop as a key ingredient and lathers into a creamy foam to brighten the appearance of your skin.

Shampoo, Conditioner & Hair Mask

Give your hair the royal treatment by using your favorite shampoo and conditioner plus a second hair mask. These steps are like a spa experience for your hair, providing intensive moisture and repair.

Second Cleanse

One of our secret skin care strategies for healthy-looking skin is double cleansing. To provide your face with the ultimate nourishment, perform a second cleanse — this time in the shower using the Stone Crop Gel Wash. This cleanser is designed for all skin types and hydrates your complexion thanks to the inclusion of stone crop and shea butter ingredients. 

Face Mask & Shave

Apply the Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque and leave it on for at least five minutes before rinsing off. This mask is formulated with citrus fruit oils (lemon and grapefruit) that tone and refresh the skin. It is a source of naturally occurring Vitamin C that helps protect the skin against the visible signs of aging. While the mask works its magic, use the time to perform the next step of shaving leg and body hair, if desired. During the masking or shaving step, consider switching off the water to save more; this simple action can make a big difference. 

Body Wash 

Finally, for the grand finale of your shower routine, it’s time for a thorough body cleanse. This step ensures you wash away any remaining shaving cream or any other residue. 

Post-shower:

Body Oil Or Moisturizer  

After your shower, it’s time to wrap yourself into a fluffy robe, secure your hair with a soft towel, then reach for a hydrating body product. Our Apricot Body Oil is an ultra-hydrating product that moisturizes using ingredients pressed from grape seed and jojoba. You can also use the Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Body Lotion to smooth and brighten the skin. These products can be used on their own or layered together. 

Hair Serum And Leave-in Conditioner 

Next, turn your attention to your hair care and apply a nourishing hair serum to your scalp. Follow this up by working a leave-in conditioner through the ends of your hair. This step is essential for maintaining healthy, luscious locks after your shower.

Hydrating Serum For The Face

Serums will help give your skin that extra boost of moisture. You’ll love our Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Serum that deeply hydrates for a smoother-looking complexion. This formula also contains a unique Botanical Hyaluronic Acid Complex that deeply hydrates and preserves moisture in the skin.

Facial Moisturizer 

Finally, it’s time to lavish your skin with a good facial moisturizer. The Arctic Berry Peptide Radiance Cream helps your skin appear luminous and hydrated thanks to its exclusive Peptide Illuminating Complex.

Visit your nearest Eminence Organics Spa Partner to make sure you have everything you need for the ultimate Eco-friendly Everything Shower.

Water filters have gained popularity as awareness of the chlorine and impurities found in tap water grows. Over the years we have collectively learned that, whether for health or taste, these impurities are something nearly everyone would rather filter out of their drinking water. Now, the real question is, if we’re treating our insides like VIPs, shouldn’t our skin get the star treatment, too? The answer is yes! The quality of tap water can certainly affect people’s skin for the worst, so it’s best that we don’t let it linger. However, when it comes to finding a solution, you may be seeing a trend of fancy bathroom sink filters popping up online but I can tell you, these are not the most efficient way to keep skin clear of impurities. 

An easier, tried-and-true option is a toner (an alcohol-free toner, to be exact). Here’s why!

How Do Bathroom Sink Filters Compare To Toners?

When you use a toner after cleansing, the process of wiping it across the skin, ideally with a toning cloth, helps to remove any impurities left over from your tap water. Not only are toners great for this, but they also provide various other benefits that sink filters can’t. Let’s run through the claimed benefits of bathroom sink filters and how they compare to your favorite toners.

Sink Filters CAN Remove Tap Water Impurities

We’ll start with the bathroom sink filter’s main claim: removing all of the chlorine, salts, and minerals that are put into tap water to make it safe for drinking and bathing. The reason we want to remove these is because they can be very harsh on the skin’s surface layers. If you’ve ever had to wipe off that cloudy white stuff from your shower doors, then you’ve seen exactly what tap water leaves behind on the skin: minerals, like calcium and magnesium. Now, do bathroom sink filters eliminate these impurities? Sure! But so do toners.

Sink Filters CAN Increase Hydration

If you struggle with dry skin, then adding a bathroom sink filter could be beneficial. Since unfiltered tap water raises the pH of your skin to an alkaline state, it has an undesirable drying effect on the skin. So, using filtered water (or once again, a toner) can keep your pH balanced and your skin hydrated. 

Sink Filters CAN Smooth Texture

Regarding bumpy skin texture caused by eczema, I have some clients who switched to filtered water who claim it helped. This likely circles back to the pH of tap water being higher than the skin’s natural pH (skin is around 5.5 while tap water is 6.5+). It’s for this same reason I recommend everyone use cleansers that are pH-balanced. If you struggle with eczema or reactive or sensitive skin, focusing on balancing your skin’s pH (whether through filtered water or toners) can be extremely beneficial. 

Sink Filters WILL NOT Reduce Breakouts

Here’s where the claims start to get a bit shaky. Let me tell you, there have been millions and millions of dollars put into trying to cure acne and if it was as simple as putting a filter on our bathroom sinks then I can assure you we would’ve discovered that a long time ago. 

When it comes to breakouts, clogged pores come from within. Breakouts occur when the skin produces an excess amount of oil that gets trapped and clogged in the pores. Tap water is not going to change the amount of oil your skin produces. Also, acne is due to hormones, and splashing water on your face has no direct correlation. Toners like Balancing Skin Tonic would be more beneficial for breakout-prone skin as a way to normalize oil production and clear blemishes without drying out the skin. 

Make sure you’re not making one of these five acne mistakes!

Sink Filters WILL NOT Prevent Premature Aging

Causes of premature aging include sun exposure and smoking, but tap water? That’s not putting any wear and tear on your skin. Attributing premature aging to tap water seems far-fetched and this fear-inducing claim may be more rooted in marketing strategies than scientific evidence. If you’re looking for anti-aging benefits, Elderberry Soothing Toner is great for delivering antioxidants deep within the skin.

Sink Filters WILL NOT Minimize Damage From Microplastics

Some bathroom sink filter brands claim that using a filter prevents microabrasion and damage caused by microplastics in water. They make it sound like pieces of plastic have broken off and are deeply scarring the skin. This is just another marketing tactic to cause panic and grab your attention, but ultimately nothing you need to worry about.

So there you have it! Sink filters can provide a few benefits to your skincare routine, such as increased hydration and a balanced pH, but if you’re already using a toner then these aren’t things you need to worry about– plus your toner is providing you with so much more! Depending on your choice of toner, you can also provide your skin with soothing ingredients, stimulating ingredients, exfoliating ingredients, etc. Toners also act as a delivery system for serums applied afterward, helping them reach deeper into the skin for more efficacy. There’s no need for a new, fancy gadget when toners are a powerhouse product just waiting to be used. 

Next up, find out how skincare brands are seeking innovation in an oversaturated market.

Celebrity Esthetician & Skincare ExpertAs an esthetician trained in cosmetic chemistry, Renée Rouleau has spent 30 years researching skin, educating her audience, and building an award-winning line of products. Her hands-on experience as an esthetician and trusted skin care expert has created a real-world solution — products that are formulated for nine different types of skin so your face will get exactly what it needs to look and feel its best. Trusted by celebrities, editors, bloggers, and skincare obsessives around the globe, her vast real-world knowledge and constant research are why Marie Claire calls her “the most passionate skin practitioner we know.”

by Caitlin H,

Jan 29, 2024

It’s a combination that goes back over a century: salads and healthy eating. Most healthy diets incorporate salads regularly, and most salads are part of a healthy diet.

And in case you’re among the many people who make the mistake of thinking salads get boring, think again. Salads are delicious year-round, as long as you are open to trying a bit of creativity!

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Morning Exercise Provides a Host of Benefits

by Caitlin H,

Jan 22, 2024

Exercising at any time of day can go a long way toward boosting your physical and mental health. However, a recent study found that people who worked out in the morning, specifically between 7 and 9 a.m. tended to be thinner than those who exercised later in the day.

Could the time of day you fit in your fitness really make a difference?

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Being Fit Earlier in Life Means Reduced Cancer Risk Later

by Caitlin H,

Jan 15, 2024

Life gets complicated as we age. Our time becomes more limited as the responsibilities pile up, we have kids, we focus on building our careers, you name it.

The more complicated it becomes, the more challenging it can be to fit in exercise and focus on taking care of our physical health. You may have prioritized fitness, working out at least four or five days a week in your younger years, only to have it fall by the wayside as you age. You know that science says fitness can prevent cancer and other diseases, but it feels nearly impossible to do it consistently.

If that rings true to you, there may be some good news.

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The Science on Mindfulness and Weight Loss

by Caitlin H,

Jan 8, 2024

You’re starting a weight loss journey. You’ve probably researched and read up on how to do it successfully. You’ve thought about the essential things you need to do to meet your goals.

One thing you may not have even considered is the importance of mindfulness. 

This journey is about more than just what you eat and how you exercise. Incorporating mindfulness can play a vital role in ensuring your success lasts for life

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10 Weight Loss Affirmations to Keep You Going Strong

by Caitlin H,

Dec 18, 2023

When you start out on a journey to lose weight, it can feel daunting. You have to change your eating and drinking habits, get educated, set a timeline, and measure your success along the way. You may even incorporate fitness into the mix, which brings a whole new level of complication. But no matter how difficult the journey seems, it’s always worth it in the end.

Getting there is challenging, but one very effective way to keep going when the going gets tough is through positive affirmations.

Need a mantra to keep your mind motivated? Don’t worry, we have some ideas for you! 

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Tips to Stay on Track While You Travel

by Caitlin H,

Dec 11, 2023

The busy holiday traveling season is right around the corner.

And, if you’re like the millions of Americans who plan on hopping on a plane and heading home for the holidays or on a vacation, it doesn’t mean you have to give up on your weight loss goals.

It’s not impossible to stay committed to your healthy eating and fitness routine event when your bags are packed and you’re ready to go.

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7 Realistic, Can-Do Tips for a Healthier Holiday Season

by Caitlin H,

Dec 4, 2023

A quick Google search will yield all sorts of articles sharing all the ways you can stay healthy and keep your diet going strong during the holidays.

But how realistic are they?

The truth: not very — at least not if you want to enjoy your time with friends and family without severely restricting yourself (and possibly driving yourself mad).

With that in mind, we put together a list of seven realistic, can-do tips to enjoy the holiday season with as much healthfulness as possible — but not too much to make it miserable!

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Top 2 Ways To Help Manage Type 2 Diabetes

by Caitlin H,

Nov 27, 2023

If you are living with Type 2 diabetes, there’s a good chance you know how critical a healthy lifestyle is to manage the condition.

We’d like to talk about two highly effective methods of managing your Type 2 diabetes, and to share information on our award winning Balance Diabetes meal plan.

We’re here to help!

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New Research Indicates How Cholesterol Types Impact Heart Disease Risk

by Caitlin H,

Nov 20, 2023

Cholesterol is one of the primary factors analyzed when researching heart disease — HDL (healthy) cholesterol to indicate protection, and LDL (lousy) cholesterol to indicate a higher risk. A recent review of previous studies shows that it’s actually more complex than knowing your numbers.

People who may be at risk for heart disease should ask their doctors for a blood test measuring for LDL and HDL cholesterol, non–HDL-cholesterol, and cholesterol particle size. By learning your cholesterol details, you can work with your doctor to create a plan to lower your chances of getting the disease.

But what else can you do to mitigate your risk of getting heart disease?

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How “Skinny Dave” Lost 45 lbs with Diet-to-Go

by Caitlin H,

Nov 13, 2023

When 56-year-old healthcare administrator David Rockwell went to see his doctor for an annual checkup in May, he knew walking in that he might not get good news. Sure enough, his bloodwork showed he faced many health issues, including high cholesterol and blood sugar. His doctor immediately talked about prescribing him several medications.

David decided before he settled for a regiment of medications he told his doctor he was going to make a concerted effort to make a major lifestyle change.

Find out how Diet-to-Go helped him to shed those pounds and improve his quality of life.

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Treadmill Fails That Are As Hilarious As They Are Alarming

by Caitlin H,

Nov 6, 2023

Ah, the treadmill — this stationary piece of equipment gives fitness enthusiasts the ability to walk or run anytime — rain, snow, or shine.

But let’s face it. The treadmill can be pretty damn boring. Add in that its functionality clearly baffles some people, and you have a recipe for some hilarious blunders.

You know you want to see our top 10 Treadmill Fails…

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10 October Fruits & Veggies with Recipes to Match!

by Caitlin H,

Oct 30, 2023

People embrace October for all sorts of reasons — cooler temperatures, the stunning golden, brown, and red fall colors, the comfort of returning to a steady routine after the hustle and bustle of summer, and, of course, the seasonal produce!

Fall is the peak season for a wide range of fruits and vegetables — affording plenty of opportunities to enjoy the crisp deliciousness raw or as the star in healthy, scrumptious recipes for all meals.

We thought we would highlight 10 of our favorite fall fruits and veggies (5 fruits and 5 veggies) and throw in a few recipes for each one! Which one will you try to add to your shopping list this week?

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5 Practical Steps to Keep Loneliness at Bay

by Caitlin H,

Oct 23, 2023

If you’ve ever felt lonely, you know how challenging navigating it can be. Many things cause loneliness, including some that you may not even realize are to blame. Reasons could include anything from life events to social media, your personality type to mental health challenges. And it’s important to note that it’s possible to feel lonely not only when you’re along, but when you’re surrounded by family and friends.

Loneliness is a very powerful emotion that can have detrimental effects on your mental and physical health, including your weight loss journey.

So what exactly can you do to combat loneliness?

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Size 10 Again: Retired Teacher Drops Over 40 Pounds

by Caitlin H,

Oct 16, 2023

When Lara took her retirement trip to Kauai she loved it, but at 200 pounds she felt uncomfortable and was self-conscious.

“I was mad at myself for being so big during this special thing.”

That was one catalyst that pushed Lara to make a change. She had tried dieting in the past, but ultimately decided to try Diet-to-Go. And when 55-year-old Lara recently fit comfortably into a pair of size 10 pants she’d held onto for years, it was a powerful moment for her.

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Examining the Link Between Stress and Weight Gain

by Caitlin H,

Oct 9, 2023

Traffic. Work. Groceries. Bills. Stress is a part of life — and most of us face it daily. Thankfully, we tend to be proficient in managing all those common day-to-day stressors.

But when stress gets overwhelming, it can make maintaining a healthy weight very challenging.

What exactly is the link between stress and weight gain?

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Living with Type 2 Diabetes? Foods to Eat and Foods to Avoid

by Caitlin H,

Oct 2, 2023

Healthy eating plays a significant role in whether you may develop type 2 diabetes — and a recently published study confirms that.

According to the study, a considerable rise in people living with type 2 diabetes globally directly results from poor diet. The study demonstrates just how essential it is to improve the quality of your food. If you have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, changing your diet is critical to improving your health.

So, what should you be eating?

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How Do the Most Popular Diets Rank for Heart Health?

by Caitlin H,

Sep 25, 2023

Skim any social media feed related to weight loss, and there’s a good chance you’ll see it chock full of everyone from fitness influencers to celebrities touting a diet that helped them shed pounds in record time. Here’s the thing: Many of those diets — such as very-low-fat and very-low-carb — may indeed help you lose weight, but that doesn’t mean they’re good for you.

What makes a diet heart healthy and where does Diet-to-Go stand in the rankings?

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Financial Analyst Loses 30 Pounds in Six Months with Diet-to-Go

by Caitlin H,

Sep 18, 2023

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8 Healthy Recipes to Level Up Your Grilling

by Caitlin H,

Sep 11, 2023

Summer may be ending, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop using your grill! Cookouts might always make you think of burgers and brats, potato salad, brownies, and lemonade. As delicious as all those things can be, they’re far from the only barbecue options. In fact, you can add variety to your menu by grilling proteins like steak, chicken, pork, and fish — particularly when they star in some delicious, unique, and healthy recipes that everyone will rave about.

Why don’t you add a new recipe to your cookout grilling menu plan?

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U.S. News & World Report Names Diet-to-Go #1 for Best Vegetarian Meal Delivery Service Overall

by Caitlin H,

Aug 21, 2023

Being a vegetarian can definitely mean eating healthier. In fact, studies show that vegetarians tend to eat less saturated fat and cholesterol and enjoy more nutrients, like dietary fiber, potassium, magnesium, folic acid, and vitamins C and E.

But trying to lose weight as a vegetarian can also be challenging, especially if you’re unsure where to begin.

That’s where we come in. Diet-to-Go’s No. 1 rated Vegetarian Meal Plan has been helping people lose weight for over 30 years. Our dietitian-approved menu delivers restaurant-quality flavors and balanced potions of delicious, chef-crafted meals. And the best part? You just heat and eat.

Ready to learn more?

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Dieting and “lifestyle programs” can feel so seductive in a culture that tells you your body is wrong and needs to be fixed. But what does the science actually say about dieting for weight loss? Does it work? Is it sustainable? Does it improve our overall health? We’re diving into all of that and more in today’s post.Content warning: mentions of stigmatizing language around weight used in research, weight loss numbers

New Year, New Me messaging is rampant at the beginning of the year and with that comes an onslaught of new year’s resolutions and diet companies’ marketing in full force.

I’ve heard January referred to as “National Dieting Month” because so many diet / wellness / “lifestyle” companies (or whatever they are calling themselves these days) are pervasive this time of year, and many people are especially vulnerable to their marketing messages entering a new year.

What the $77B diet industry is not telling you is all of the research that shows diets don’t work in the long term. Because their bottom line relies on repeat customers – the same folks trying their program again, and again, and again.

It’s helpful to know what the scientific literature says about dieting and weight loss but even more important (IMO) than research is YOUR lived experience. Have diets worked for you in the past? How long did they work for? Did you end up eventually gaining the weight back? Have diets / lifestyle programs felt sustainable for you? Why or why not? You know your body best.

The research on dieting and weight loss

A 2007 review of the scientific literature on dieting and weight loss by Mann et al. found that only 14 research studies looked at weight loss outcomes 4 years or more out. Meaning that all the other literature on diets and weight loss have very short-term follow-up (typically 1 year). These study designs benefit the diet industry because we know that diets work in the short-term but anywhere from a couple to several years out most people gain the weight back.

The review found that of the studies they looked at, participants lost anywhere between 10-65 lbs. At follow-up, most of the weight had been regained. Results ranged from a net 15lb loss to a 8lb weight gain from where they started.

30-64% of participants ended up at or above the weight where they started before the diet.

Only 9% of participants ended up with a BMI less than 35. And those who lost greater than 15% of their weight actually doubled their risk of mortality.

A 2018 umbrella review of meta-analyses on weight loss interventions found that there is “no high-quality evidence to recommend treating ‘obesity’ with a specific nonsurgical or non-pharmacological intervention among many available.” AKA we have no good evidence to recommend diet or lifestyle interventions for weight loss.

Naturalistic studies (where you observe folks in their natural environments and record behaviors) have concluded that dieting is actually a predictor for weight gain. So not only do diets not work but they also predict weight gain. Some meta-analyses and comprehensive reviews have reported the same outcomes – that lifestyle interventions actually lead to weight gain, especially with long-term follow-up.

Other reviews have shown that 3-5% weight loss is possible for years later if all aspects of treatment are maintained. To give that more context, that would be a weight loss of 6-10 lbs for a 200 lb person. Health benefits of this kind of modest weight loss are not clear. And most people are looking for a 30% weight loss, not 3-5%. 

Are health risks associated with weight due to weight cycling?

Studies show that weight cycling (losing weight, gaining it back, rinse and repeat) is a risk factor for diabetes, dyslipidemia, poorer self-perception, insulin resistance, hypertension, and visceral fat.

A 15 year study showed that the highest mortality rate was in people who lost weight and not in those who gained weight or stayed weight stable. This and other studies shows us that weight cycling may be worse for your health than staying at / maintaining a higher weight.

What if the health risks we see associated with weight are actually due to the repeated attempts to lose weight and the stress that puts on the body and not the actual size of the body?

We know that health-promoting behaviors (exercising, eating more fruits and vegetables, getting enough sleep) can reduce mortality risk regardless of any weight changes. Yes, that’s right. You can improve your health markers without losing any weight.

It’s also important to consider how weight stigma or anti-fat bias plays a role in the correlational data we see between higher weights and poorer health outcomes. It’s been stated in the literature that “bias may impair efforts to engage in healthy lifestyle behaviors through negative emotional distress and unhealthy eating patterns.”

It also feels worth noting that all studies on weight and health risks are correlational. And when you learn how to read and analyze research, the one thing that always gets stressed is “correlation does not equal causation.” We cannot say that weight causes chronic disease – there’s no literature that supports that.

If you look at all the data on smoking / tobacco use and lung cancer and see that there is a correlation between those with yellow stained teeth and lung cancer, you would never say that yellow teeth caused the cancer, you would say that’s a side effect of smoking. Yellow teeth is not a behavior. 

Just because weight is correlated with chronic disease doesn’t mean it is the cause. Weight is also not a behavior. 

“Overweight” BMIs have the lowest risk of mortality

We have been sold the belief that being “overweight” is bad for your health. What we have not heard is that studies show being “overweight” has a lower risk of mortality compared to “normal weight.” A BMI of 30-34.9, referred to in the medical field as “class 1 obesity” has also been shown to not have a higher risk of mortality compared to “normal” weight.

Why is no one talking about the protective effect of being “overweight?” Because that wouldn’t bode well for all the pharmaceutical companies selling weight loss medications and the diet industry selling their lifestyle programs. 

BMI is complete bullshit anyway but I could write another whole blog post on that topic so I’ll save it for another time.

References:

Lissner, L., Odell, P. M., D’Agostino, R. B., Stokes, J., Kreger, B. E., Belanger, A. J., & Brownell, K. D. (1991). Variability of Body Weight and Health Outcomes in the Framingham Population. New England Journal of Medicine, 324(26), 1839–1844. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJM199106273242602

Tolvanen, L., Ghilotti, F., Adami, H.-O., Ye, W., Bonn, S. E., Bellocco, R., & Lagerros, Y. T. (2023). Prospective study of weight loss and all-cause-, cardiovascular-, and cancer mortality. Scientific Reports, 13(1), 5669. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-32977-8

Mulligan, A. A., Lentjes, M. A. H., Luben, R. N., Wareham, N. J., & Khaw, K. T. (2018). Weight change and 15 year mortality: results from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer in Norfolk (EPIC-Norfolk) cohort study. European journal of epidemiology, 33(1), 37–53. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10654-017-0343-y