Category: Latest Articles

Is Your Diet Really Healthy? 10 Quick Tips to Eat Better

by Caitlin H,

Nov 7, 2022

If you’re incorporating plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, complex carbs and whole grains into your diet, you probably think you’re eating a well-rounded diet. There’s a solid chance that may be true! But, a recent study published in the American Society for Nutrition found that many of us think our diet is healthier than it really is.

Thankfully, you can take control of your diet and ensure you’re getting the proper nutrition that can support you in reaching your goals, and WE CAN HELP!

8 Keto-Friendly Halloween Dishes Party Guests Will Love

by Caitlin H,

Oct 24, 2022

Halloween is a fun time for everyone, but it can be difficult for those of us on the keto diet to resist all that candy, unhealthy food and those baked goods sitting around this time of year.

Thankfully, just because you’re low-carb living doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself. We’ve come up with a few Halloween-themed snacks… it’s scary how yummy they are!

10 Different Types of Yoga to Master Your Body and Mind

by Caitlin H,

Oct 17, 2022

Controlling both your mind and body are two things that can work wonders toward improving your overall health and weight loss efforts. And yoga is a highly effective way to get that control.

Yoga combines breathing and meditation (mind) with movement (body) to boost various elements of your health, including flexibility, endurance, strength, inner peace and well-being. Yoga is practiced by millions of people and the varieties and forms of the practice is growing. You can try out for mediation, fitness, spirituality and, of course, fun!

Work your way down our list of 10 different yoga types! You’re sure to find the perfect yoga workout.

3 Strategies to Maximize Weight Loss Through Portion Control

by Caitlin H,

Oct 10, 2022

Most diets focus on restricting your eating by cutting out things like refined sugars, carbohydrates, fat content, etc. And while reducing your intake of those things can aid in weight loss*, the constant restriction can also make it more challenging to stay dedicated and consistent.

Another practical approach is to allow some of the foods you enjoy most while focusing on portion control instead. Portion control is when you focus on the amount of food you’re eating and adjust it according to your calorie and nutritional goals.

Applying some simple routine tips to your meal portion control can go a long way toward helping you reach your goals!

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!

Ready in about 30 minutes, this Instant Pot Green Bean Casserole has all the flavor you love in your favorite Thanksgiving side dish but is ready in a fraction of the time! No oven space needed!

Who doesn’t love homemade green bean casserole for Thanksgiving? Like from scratch. We’re talking béchamel sauce, the whole nine yards.

But on Thanksgiving, most of us only have like three yards in us, not nine.

Because there’s so much food prep to think about on Thanksgiving, my motto is to spend the time where it’s worth it (i.e. turkey and mashed potatoes IMO) and find time savers for the rest.

Enter, the Instant Pot. I’m a big fan of taking advantage of slow cookers and Instant Pots on Thanksgiving as it saves precious oven space, which is a hot commodity on Thanksgiving.

So I decided to take my beloved homemade green bean casserole recipe and tweak it to make an Instant Pot version. The verdict is:

full of flavor – think garlic, umami, and thyme
still creamy and rich tasting
great texture from the crispy fried onions
ready in about 30 minutes
no oven space necessary 
less than 5 minutes of prep time
worthy of a Thanksgiving table

Ingredients You’ll Need

Notes on Ingredients

mushrooms: i use cremini or baby bella mushrooms because they’re more flavorful (hi umami) than white button.

green beans: purchase pre-washed, pre-trimmed green beans for an extra time saver

vegetable broth: you could also use chicken broth for flavor if no one who will be eating it is vegetarian / vegan

heavy cream: adds richness

milk: this plus the heavy cream helps give it that béchamel – like richness.

parmesan cheese: this adds more umami flavor to the dish

crispy fried onions: a non-negotiable for green bean casserole – adds salty flavor and satisfying crunchy texture

thyme: adds a sweet, earthy, herbaceous flavor

garlic: the smell of garlic + butter + mushrooms sautéing gets me every time. don’t skip the garlic!

butter: I typically use unsalted when cooking but salted is delicious too!

salt & pepper: not pictured but still important for enhancing flavor

cornstarch: helps thicken the sauce 

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

Instant Pot

Baking dish

How to Make Instant Pot Green Bean Casserole

Sauté mushrooms. Set Instant Pot to sauté function for 10 minutes. Add olive oil and once oil is heated, add mushrooms and sauté, stirring mushrooms halfway through, until tender and browned, about 8 minutes.
Add aromatics to the mushrooms. Add garlic, butter, and thyme and set to sauté until butter is melted, about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Pressure cook the green beans. Add green beans and vegetable broth. Secure lid onto Instant Pot. Close the steam vent (should be set to sealing). Set to high manual pressure for 3 minutes.
Make the cream sauce. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together cream, milk, Parmesan cheese, and cornstarch until combined.
Quick release pressure. After pressure cook is finished, use quick release valve to release steam. Once pressure is released, open lid and strain out the remaining liquid.
Make it creamy. Stir in the cream mixture and set to sauté until mixture begins to bubble and thicken, about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Make it crunchy. Pour green beans into a casserole dish and top with crispy fried onions.
Optional: Brown the fried onions. Preheat broiler on low and place casserole dish under broiler until onions are browned, about 1-2 minutes.

Expert + Time SavingTips

Buy pre-washed, pre-trimmed green beans.
Buy sliced cremini mushrooms
If you can put your oven broiler on low to brown the onions, do so. Or be sure to check every minute so they don’t burn! 
Be sure to drain out the extra broth after green beans have pressure cooked so that you don’t end up with a soggy casserole!

Recipe FAQs

How far in advance can you make green bean casserole?

You can make the green bean casserole up to three days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Let the dish cool before storing in the fridge. When you’re ready to reheat, let it sit out at room temperature for 30 minutes then bake, covered with foil, at 350 degrees F until warmed throughout, about 15-30 minutes. Top with fresh crispy fried onions. 

How do I keep green bean casserole from getting mushy?

Be sure to not add too much liquid. That’s why it’s important to drain out the broth/liquid from the green beans pressure cooking. If you need cream mixture needs to thicken more, add more cornstarch / sauté longer.

What happens if you put oil in the Instant Pot?

You can safely add small amounts of oil to the Instant Pot! The oil will help you sauté the mushrooms in this recipe.

Can I leave green bean casserole out overnight?

No. Don’t leave your casserole out at room temperature for more than two hours to avoid any bacteria growth.

What main dish goes with green been casserole?

So many main dishes pair perfectly with green bean casserole!

Here are a few:

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Air Fryer Salmon (Fresh or Frozen)

Slow Cooked Salmon

Do people eat green bean casserole on Thanksgiving?

Yes! It’s an iconic Thanksgiving side dish that’s over 65 years old! It’s very popular in the midwest too. 

Can you overcook green beans in the Instant Pot?

You can! If you overcook green beans make sure to reduce the pressure cook time – this recipe only calls for 3 minutes of pressure cooking.

How do you store casserole leftovers?

Green bean casserole leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I freeze green bean casserole?

Yes! Let the casserole cool completely and cover with plastic wrap and foil and freeze up to two weeks. To serve, preheat oven to 350 degrees F, remove plastic wrap and foil. Cover with new foil and bake until heated through, about 45 minutes. Uncover, top with fried onions and bake until casserole is bubbling, about 20 more minutes.

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

Instant Pot Cream of Mushroom Soup

No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake (vegan and gluten-free)

Slow Cooker Baked Apples

Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash

Naturally Sweetened Cranberry Sauce

Slow Cooker Mushroom Stuffing

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese

Fall Harvest Salad Stuffed Acorn Squash

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!

This recipe was retested, reshot and revamped to bring you the most delicious (and most beautiful) dish! The original post was published November 2019. 

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Sweet Potato “Unstuffing” (Made without Bread) – The Real Food Dietitians

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Looking for a little meal prep inspiration? Need something easy to take with you to work? These 5 balanced bowls are exactly what you need!

Meal prepping can get really old really fast, especially when you’re sick of your usual go-to recipes. That’s where these balanced bowls come in! Bowls are a great way to add variety and versatility to your meal prep without having to spend hours in the kitchen. 

Using the Foundational Five to Create Balanced Bowls

In case you’re new to the NS Community and the Mindful Nutrition Method, the Foundational Five system is part of how we teach you to build balanced meals. It makes it easy for you to give your body the nourishment you need while having the flexibility to enjoy the foods you love without stressing about food.

The Foundational Five is made up of five elements of nutrition including Protein, Fat, Non-starchy Carbohydrates, Starchy & Sugary Carbohydrates, and the Flavor Factor (which brings vibrancy, deliciousness, and enjoyment to your meals). 

You can download our free guide that walks you through our Foundational Five system for creating balanced meals that you can use to meal prep or cook fresh this week!

5 Balanced Bowls 

Test out some of these Nutrition Stripped favorites the next time you’re in need of a balanced bowl for lunch or dinner. 

1. Fall Grain Nourish Bowl

This is a great bowl to add to your meal prep this fall. It’s a delicious savory bowl packed with nutrients through ingredients like quinoa, tempeh, and brussel sprouts. It’s the perfect combination of comfort and nourishment! 

2. Grilled Portobello Mushroom Steak Bowl

How could you not love a delicious bowl that’s filled with flavor and nutrients? It’s so easy to toss together mid-work-week or prepare in advance for ease. We’re all about prioritizing the combination of enjoyment and nourishment here at Nutrition Stripped. And this recipe is a beautiful example of just that! 

This Grilled Portobello Mushroom Steak Bowl is the dish you need for both nutrition and comfort! Packed with all the vitamins and minerals, it’s a wonderful way to eat a balanced meal. 

3. Sweet Potato and Greens Bowl

This Sweet Potato and Greens Bowl is a delicious way to enjoy a combination of fall flavors and textures. Sweet potatoes and greens are a staple in many households for their versatility, and because they’re readily found in most grocery stores and farmers’ markets.

This bowl features a delicious fall ingredient that you may not think to purchase as often — figs. Not only do figs add a nice sweet flavor to balance out the salty and savory ingredients, but they’re also incredibly fiber-rich, both with soluble and insoluble fiber. Give this balanced bowl a try next! 

4. Vegetable Rice Noodle Nourish Bowl with Peanut Sauce

This Vegetable Rice Noodle With Peanut Sauce is a great example of how to make a fully delicious and equally nutritious meal that will leave you satisfied and well-nourished. The fresh ingredients and delicious flavor combinations make it perfect for any time of year! 

5. Foundational Five Eggs, Beans, And Greens Nourish Bowl

This is a super versatile balanced bowl. You can use any greens you have readily available in your refrigerator! Just toss together your favorite greens, some avocado, beans, eggs, broccoli, and sprouts. Then top with a delicious green dressing!

You can make this for any meal of the day, and you can even prep it in advance for busy days. 

Tips For Making Balanced Bowls

There are a couple of tips you should keep in mind that will help you out a bit when prepping these 5 balanced bowls. 

Invest in good-quality storage containers 

Having quality storage containers can make all the difference when you’re frequently making balanced bowls, especially if you’re taking them on the go. It can ensure your prepped meals stay fresh longer, and prevent any leaking or spills while traveling. 

Don’t be afraid to experiment on your own

You can mix and match so many great ingredients to create a balanced bowl of your own. You can even use our Foundational Five formula to do so! 

FAQ About These Balanced Bowl Recipes

Have a few questions? Check out these FAQs! 

What if I don’t like some of these ingredients?

The great part about all of these recipes is that they’re so versatile and flexible. Not a fan of sprouts? Totally fine! Swap them out for some basil or arugula. Can’t stand sweet potatoes? Feel free to leave them out! Don’t let a few ingredients stop you from enjoying the ease and convenience these balanced bowl recipes can give you. 

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.

La Prairie’s Skin Caviar line is a favorite among skincare enthusiasts — and for good reason. The lotions, creams, serums and oils use caviar extract to plump and firm the skin. Now, 35 years after the debut of the line, La Prairie launched its newest serum and the most luxe product in the collection: Skin Caviar Harmony L’Extrait Serum. What’s different about it? Well, it promises to diminish vertical lines on the face so let’s just say, I’m in.

Skin Caviar Harmony L’Extrait Serum first debuted at the 2022 Art Basel fair in Basel, Switzerland, along with a digital exhibition featuring five emerging female artists. Here, it’s a celebration of the luxe packaging with its curves in the cobalt blue glass. But for me, it’s all about the good stuff inside, the potent facial serum. Because La Prairie believes it found the “key to the harmony of youth” with its newest technology.

Most anti-aging serums target horizontal lines, like those lines on your forehead. This serum goes after vertical lines via the strengthening and redensifying of skin ligaments in your face. When I tried Skin Caviar Harmony over a bit longer than a week, I focused the serum especially on my smile lines and fine lines in between my brows, really massaging it in areas where vertical lines are the most dramatic.

The application of this serum is luxe on its own. The tiny microbeads dissolve as you rub it in and the formula quickly absorbs into the skin. It feels lightweight and hydrating right away — not greasy and pore-clogging (my biggest fear). The brand recommends layering it with Skin Caviar Luxe Cream ($555 at Nordstrom), but since I’m PMSing, I went with an oil-free moisturizer to keep my hormonal breakout at bay. (FWIW, it was Reneé Rouleau Skin Recovery Lotion.)

I’m lucky that my lines aren’t especially deep (thanks, Mom) but my skin does easily get dry and dull, which in turn makes even fine lines more obvious. I can’t promise anything about how strong my skin ligaments are, but I did quickly notice my skin looked more hydrated and plump in just a week. Skin Caviar Harmony L’Extrait Serum is an investment, but if you’re in the market for a luxe new skincare product, it’ll make a gorgeous addition to your routine.

Are there any Eminence Organics products you just can’t live without? With so many fabulous products to choose from, it can be hard to narrow the list (and clear space on your vanity). To help you select your skin care essentials, here are our top Eminence product reviews — submitted by fans just like you!

Stone Crop Hydrating Mist

“I mist this on my face after cleansing and before I apply my nighttime moisturizer or daytime sunscreen and LOVE it! I have pretty sensitive skin that gets easily irritated and itchy, and Stone Crop Hydrating Mist always … hydrates and smooths my skin. It is amazing how much better my skin looks and feels after misting this on! I can’t be without it! Thank you, Eminence!” — Meredith

Facial Recovery Oil

“I call Facial Recovery Oil ‘liquid gold’ – I am obsessed. I’ve been using it for about a year now and credit it for changing the health of my skin. I now use all Eminence products – which are all amazing – but this little bottle prize I can not live without. Ever since I started using it, now when I go get facials, my esthetician can tell under the magnifying light I’ve been using this because my skin looks so healthy … Love this, you will not regret trying it out.” — Jami

Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Cleanser

“Love Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Cleanser! It felt like a layer of my dead skin was off on the very first use. My skin is glowing! 10/10.” — Isabel

Stone Crop Gel Wash

“This face wash and all the stone crop products have transformed my skin. I have dry skin that is prone to breakouts and dry skin that, in the past, resulted in psoriasis. This helped my skin go from bumpy to hydrated and glowing … It is a legit game changer. — Ashley

Coconut Age Corrective Moisturizer

“My esthetician suggested I try this product and, in one use, my dry flaky patches were gone! I now use it morning and night and my skin hasn’t felt or looked better. After one month, my esthetician said the change in my skin was dramatic. I LOVE Coconut Age Corrective Moisturizer, I won’t be without it!” — Frances

Bamboo Firming Fluid

“I love Bamboo Firming Fluid. Living in Florida, I’m always looking for something to hydrate without feeling heavy. This does the trick plus it firms and tightens too. I couldn’t be happier and won’t go a day or night without this.” — Patience

Clear Skin Probiotic Masque

“I used the Clear Skin Probiotic Masque and instantly fell in love with it. Within an hour of washing it off, I could visibly see my skin tone was more even, the pimples [looked] smaller and my general appearance was much better. I couldn’t believe it! One 10 minute treatment made my skin go from horrific to looking in the mirror and loving what I saw. I’m going to go back and get some more from this product line! Thank you, Eminence, for saving my skin!” — S.

Hibiscus Ultra Lift Eye Cream

“Hibiscus Ultra Lift Eye Cream is amazing in its effectiveness. I carry it in my purse and use it at the end of a long workday before going out. A tiny amount instantly perks up my dragging eyes and removes the lines. Great for morning puffiness as well. This is a can’t live without product.” — Karen

Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant

“Once again I have fallen in love with Eminence! I have used this exfoliant twice and, after only two applications, I can already see and feel a significant difference in my skin. I just washed my face and my mom made a comment about how luminous my skin looks. Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant does a wonderful job at removing the flakier spots on my face, which are usually around my nose and chin, without irritating the rest of my face. My face feels silky smooth after using it. I would highly recommend this to anyone at any age!” — Rosie

Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum

“Best hands down! I’ve been using this 1-2 times per day for under a month and my skin visibly looks brighter, feels hydrated and plump and not oily. My redness has started to reduce. The best part … the texture of my skin is smooth! I absolutely love this serum!” — Lisa

Neroli Age Corrective Hydrating Mist

“So refreshing! I keep this in my handbag! If you have dry skin this is a great addition for your handbag to just refresh throughout the day. I love the smell and the way it gives my skin a dewy glow without feeling greasy or heavy. I also love that because it is a spray there is no transfer of oil from your hands onto your face. It’s a quick burst of moisture and calming scents to boost my mood and day!” —Alex

Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser

“I’ve tried everything for my problem skin – Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser has worked miracles. It must be the organic ingredients because when I try to use anything else my skin breaks out again. Thank you, Eminence!” — Ashlie

Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Body Lotion

“Finally! I have been using Eminence products for over 10 years and have been waiting for more strawberry rhubarb products. Definitely, a thick/hydrating cream, when you apply it, at first it has a slightly tacky texture on the skin, very similar to the face serum, but then quickly absorbs in and leaves your skin feeling velvety and hydrated. Also, smells amazing without being too overpowering.” — Jordan

Stone Crop Body Oil

“Love this! I’ve been using this for several years. Leaves my skin soft, hydrated and glowing! Never want to be without this great body oil.” — jrpells

Monoi Age Corrective Night Cream for Face & Neck

“Been using the Monoi Age Corrective Night Cream for over two years now. I love it!!!” — sanferrick

We love reading the reviews you have left for these and more of our best selling products. Do you have a favorite Eminence Organics product? We’d love to hear about it. Share your thoughts in a product review of your own, and join the conversation on social media.

This article was originally published in May 2018.

A regular skincare routine is the secret to healthy and glowing skin. However, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Your skin is unique, and so are your skin concerns. From acne to aging, we all have our own struggles to address with the help of a daily skincare routine.

Whether you’re a seasoned skincare user or just getting started, you may be wondering if there’s a way to skip the hassle of picking out individual products. Why spend all that time reading product descriptions when you can get right to the point with Yon-Ka’s pre-assembled beauty boxes.

Choose from a generous range of skincare bundles designed to address common concerns like acne, dry skin, and environmental damage.

Here’s what you need to know about Yon-Ka’s beauty boxes.

Wrap your skin in a nourishing cocoon of comfort with this hydrating moisturizer and exfoliator duo. Safe for even the most sensitive skin, this duo will leave your skin feeling soft, supple, and smooth.

Featured Products:

Gommage Yon-Ka
Nutri Defense Crème

Gentle and particle free, Gommage Yon-Ka exfoliates the skin, leaving it hydrated, bright and balanced. Yon-Ka’s ultra-comforting Nutri Defense Crème nourishes and repairs the skin with the power of probiotics, coenzyme Q10, and organic inca inchi oil.

Bolster your skin’s defenses against the harsh pollutants of urban life with this duo of skincare essentials. Start your daily routine with a gentle exfoliating scrub then restore moisture and support the skin’s natural defenses with an antioxidant rich moisturizer.

Featured Products:

Guarana Scrub
Vital Defense Crème

Guarana Scrub buffs away dead skin and restores smoothness, exfoliating with natural rice and guarana microbeads. Vital Defense Crème features organic myrtle and moringa peptides boost the skin’s defenses against environmental pollutants and free-radicals.

Regain your skin’s youthful vitality with this nourishing and hydrating duo. Perfectly paired to repair rough skin on the hands and dry, dull skin on the face, this duo is a must-have for restoring radiance.

Featured Products:

Pamplemousse PS Crème
Crème Mains

Packed with vibrant vitamin C, Pamplemousse PS Crème restores the skin’s bright and youthful complexion. Crème Mains hydrates and revitalizes the hands with the sweet aromas of mandarin and orange essential oils.

Refresh and defend your skin with this hydrating and anti-pollution defense duo. Gently remove dead cells and brighten dull skin tone then hydrate and protect the skin from free-radical damage.

Featured Products:

Gommage Yon-Ka
Vital Defense Cream

A non-abrasive exfoliator, Gommage Yon-Ka gently exfoliates and clarifies the skin to restore tone and texture. Vital Defense Crème boosts the skin’s defenses against environmental assault while delivering a healthy dose of hydration.

Spa At Home Kits from Yon-Ka

If none of the beauty boxes above have just the right combination of products, consider one of Yon-Ka’s “spa at home” kits. These collections were created specifically to help people deal with stress relief, relaxation, and giving your skin an extra dose of hydration. Each kit features three popular Yon-Ka products to help you easily build a daily skincare routine.

Soothe your stress away while nourishing your skin with this powerful trio of Yon-Ka essentials. Cleanse the skin and quench its thirst, then repair and regenerate, erasing the signs of skin damage.

Featured Products:

Lait Nettoyant
Lotion Yon-Ka PS
Nutri+ Booster

Start with a thorough cleanse using creamy Lait Nettoyant then breathe deeply the aromatic scent of Yon-Ka Quintessence with the energizing power of Lotion Yon-KA PS toner. Finish up with the nourishing and reparative Nutri+ Booster facial oil.

Hydrated skin is the key to youthful radiance and protection against the elements. This moisturizing trio is everything you need to cleanse, hydrate, and protect the skin.

Featured Products:

Eau Micellaire
Hydra N1 Serum
Hydra N1 Masque

A gentle cleanse with Eau Micellaire removes impurities with a simple swipe. Follow your cleanse with a layer of skin-quenching Hydra N1 Serum and indulge in a hydrating layer of Hydra N1 Masque once or twice weekly to complete the ritual.

Pamper yourself with this at-home relaxation kit featuring a deeply hydrating and refreshing blend of therapeutic skincare products. Target the delicate skin on the face, neck and eye contours while restoring overall hydration to restore radiance.

Featured Products:

Lait Nettoyant
Phyto-Contour
Hydra N1 Masque

A thorough but gentle cleanse is the perfect start to any skincare routine. Begin with Lait Nettoyant then apply a thin layer of Phyto-Contour around the eyes to firm and brighten the skin. Complete the ritual with deeply hydrating Hydra N1 Masque on the face and neck.

If you struggle with blemishes and breakouts, this three-piece set is just what you need. Inclusive of three purifying skincare essentials, this trio is designed to restore and maintain clear skin at any age.

Featured Products:

Gel Nettoyant
Juvenil
Crème 15

Start by cleansing the skin with gentle Gel Nettoyant before applying a layer of purifying Juvenil to the affected areas. Finish up with the anti-bacterial and balancing Crème 15 to help restore the smooth texture and healthy appearance of your skin.

These pre-assembled beauty boxes are a great foundation on which to build a skincare routine. If you find a product you like, pick up a full-size in the Yon-Ka shop or in person at your local Yon-Ka partner spa. You may also want to take advantage of the Yon-Ka Skincare Advisor for custom product recommendations to complement your beauty box.

Have you ever seen a skincare product marketed as having high, low or even multiple weights of hyaluronic acid? If you found yourself wondering what this means (and whether or not it affects the efficacy of the product), you’re not alone.

In this post, I’ll explain what it means for hyaluronic acid to come in different weights, what that means for your skin, and which one to look for. 

How Does Hyaluronic Acid Benefit Skin?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is one of the most ubiquitous ingredients in skin care. As a refresher, HA is a type of sugar called glucosaminoglycan that is naturally produced by our bodies. Internally, HA helps lubricate joints and other connective tissues. It’s also produced within our skin to keep everything supple and hydrated. 

In skin care, HA functions as a humectant. This means it binds water to the skin and helps it hold onto moisture, preventing dehydration through transepidermal water loss. Ultimately, the result is moisturized skin that appears dewy, plump, and smooth. 

What Does It Mean to Have Different “Weights” of Hyaluronic Acid?

When we talk about different “weights” of HA, we’re talking about molecular mass (aka the size of the molecule). HA molecules are broadly categorized as small, medium, or large and are measured in daltons. 

But why does this matter? The size of a HA molecule determines how deeply it can be absorbed into the skin. The largest, heaviest molecules will sit on top of the skin and attract water to the outermost layer. Smaller, lighter molecules are able to penetrate through the skin barrier, where they attract water internally to plump skin underneath.

Which Weight of Hyaluronic Acid is Most Effective?

The short answer is, HA is effective regardless of whether it’s low, medium, or high weight. All of these will improve skin elasticity and hydration to some extent. Which weight you use depends on the results you’re looking for. The general consensus is that anything below 50 daltons could potentially irritate the skin while going above 2,000 won’t provide any additional benefit.

The benefit of using medium or high-weight HA is that the results are instant. HA is well-known for its ability to immediately hydrate the skin, giving it a plump and dewy look. This plumping effect also makes fine lines appear less prominent. By preventing water loss, you’re also strengthening your skin barrier which can help with healthier skin aging over time. 

Low-weight HA doesn’t have the same immediate, visible effect, but it may be more effective for the reduction of wrinkle depth in the long run. Some studies have also suggested it’s longer-acting, meaning it will help your skin hold on to water for a longer period of time. With low-weight HA, it’s important to use it consistently for at least a month in order to see benefits. If wrinkle reduction is your main goal, you can also check out these other ingredients that promote firmer skin. 

Alternatively, if you want the best of both worlds, you can look for products with a blend of molecular weights. One thing to keep in mind is that many companies don’t disclose the exact molecular weight of their HA products, but you can get a sense by feeling the texture of the product. Products with higher-weight molecules have more of a slip since they sit on top of the skin, whereas smaller-weight molecules will give products a more watery texture since they soak in. 

The Bottom Line

Is one weight of HA better than the other? The answer is no, HA will improve skin hydration and elasticity regardless of molecule size. Whether you look for a product with low or high-weight HA depends on what your priority is. High-weight molecules have an instant plumping and hydrating effect, providing relief for skin that looks dull or crepey due to dehydration. For more long-lasting benefits, opt for smaller weights. These rehydrate skin cells over time so you won’t get the immediate effect, but they’re better for reducing wrinkle depth over time.  

Personally, I tend to look for a product with medium to high-weight HA. I’m usually looking for that instant gratification—I want an instant hit of moisture to bring life to my skin, smooth out lines, and help me retain moisture throughout the day. This is what I’ve focused on in my products; my go-to’s are Moisture Infusion Toner and Skin Drink Concentrate Serum. 

Finally, while hyaluronic acid is a fantastic ingredient, it’s not the only way to keep skin hydrated! Learn more about all of my favorite ingredients for plumper-looking skin.

by Caitlin H,

Oct 10, 2022

Like many people who’ve tried to lose weight over the years, there’s a good chance you’ve tried out more than one diet.

Most diets focus on restricting your eating by cutting out things like refined sugars, carbohydrates, fat content, etc. And while reducing your intake of those things can aid in weight loss*, the constant restriction can also make it more challenging to stay dedicated and consistent.

Another practical approach is to allow some of the foods you enjoy most while focusing on portion control instead. Portion control is when you focus on the amount of food you’re eating and adjust it according to your calorie and nutritional goals.

Portion control has become especially challenging over the last several decades. That’s because standard portion sizes — both in restaurants and marketplaces — have increased dramatically since the 1970s. A 2002 study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that recommended and restaurant-served portion sizes increased sharply in the 1980s and have steadily risen in parallel with average body weights in the U.S.

Controlling your portions is helpful if you still want to enjoy certain calorie-dense foods. And thankfully, there are ways to go about it. We rounded up three strategies to maximize your weight loss efforts through portion control. Applying these tips can go a long way toward helping you reach your goals!

1) Use a smaller plate.

From a young age, many of us have been taught to finish everything on our plates. The problem is that plates tend to be large. And those large, platter-like plates we’re accustomed to do not bode well for controlling portion sizes. Consider filling a smaller plate, such as a salad or portion-control plate, with your meal. This will help you be more aware of how much you’re eating. You can always get more if you don’t feel satisfied in the end.

You should also aim to fill half your plate with vegetables, a quarter with lean protein, and the other quarter with a whole grain like brown rice.

2) Use a kitchen scale.

Measuring your portion sizes with a scale can go a long way toward helping you eat the right amount. Digital scales are an excellent investment when you’re learning how proper portion sizes look. Spend some time on the weekend measuring out your portion sizes for food you plan on eating throughout the week. Or, if you would rather, measure the portion sizes ahead of each meal. It won’t take long before you get a solid idea of what the correct portion size looks like.

3) Be mindful when you eat.

We live in a busy world. Too often, you may find yourself scarfing down a meal in front of the TV or ahead of a work meeting. But slowing down and practicing mindful eating works wonders toward eating the correct portion size. Treat your meals like any other important activity by setting time aside in your day to sit down and eat them slowly and mindfully. Pay attention to each bite’s smell, texture, and taste, and listen to the cues your stomach sends your mind as you go. Not only will this help you enjoy the meals more, but it will also establish a connection between your body and brain that will signal you when you’re full, so you stop eating.

At Diet-to-Go, we believe that healthy eating doesn’t have to be restrictive or miserable. We approach weight loss with common sense, meaning that portion size, nutritional value, and taste are at the forefront of every meal our renowned chefs prepare.

Diet-to-Go customers will be the first to tell you that one of the most valuable things our program taught them was how much food they should be eating. Combine that portion control knowledge with the No. 1-rated taste, the convenience of meal delivery, and our team of experts standing by to create a personalized plan for you, and you have a recipe for success.*

Don’t wait any longer. View our menus and get started today!
 

 

 

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Author: Caitlin H
Diet-to-Go Community Manager

Caitlin is the Diet-to-Go community manager and an avid runner. She is passionate about engaging with others online and maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. She believes moderation is key, and people will have the most weight loss success if they engage in common-sense healthy eating and fitness.