MacroLife Blog
Fall Into Beauty and Become an Anti-Ager!
SLOW DOWN AGING Antioxidants not only help fight the elements responsible for the visible signs of aging, but can also soothe the skin, help it look more youthful, and revitalize dull looking skin by deactivating the free radicals that cause aging.WHAT’S AN ANTIOXIDANT? Antioxidants are substances that protect your cells against free radicals, which may play a role in heart disease, cancer and other diseases.WHAT’S A FREE RADICAL?Free radicals are molecules produced when your body breaks down food or when you're exposed to tobacco smoke, radiation, even exercise produces Free-Radicals.WHAT HAPPENS WHEN TOO MANY CELLS ARE DAMAGED BY FREE RADICALS? When too many free radicals build up in the body, they can do serious damage to cells. This may contribute to conditions like cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Antioxidants work in the body by neutralizing free radicals by giving up some of their own electrons. In making this sacrifice, they act as a natural "off" switch for the free radicals. Several studies even suggest that blueberries contain the highest number of antioxidants combined with Blackberries, Goji, Raspberries, Pomegranate found in Miracle Reds, the blend provides a powerhouse of Polyphenols & Antioxidant protection.Beauty from the Inside Out - Benefits of Miracle Reds: Visible rejuvenation of the skin texture Natural anti-inflammatory Help skin repair itself; reduction of skin scars and texture irregularities Firmer, brighter, and well-moisturized skin Radiant and glowing appearance of the face Reduce Inflammation Look younger and Become an Anti-AgerSylvia Ortiz, Mother of SuperFoods
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Help Your Kid’s Immunity
Studies have shown that an alarmingly high percentage of children eat less than the minimum daily allowance of many essential nutrients. The best way to boost your child’s immunity is with quality, organic, fresh, unprocessed food and a source of vitamins and minerals designed for kids. However, for most time-crunched families, eating home-cooked, well-balanced meals made from these ingredients 100% of the time just isn’t possible.Because of the dramatic amount of growth and development Kids experience, children need a generous allowance of vitamins and minerals. These nutrients are essential for their cells to work and are critical for their healthy growth, energy, focus, learning, behavior, and immunity. Failure to get enough of any of the above nutrients can lead to serious health problems.A great way to ensure your kids get the nutrients they need is with high-quality dietary supplements. At MacroLife, we offer Coco Greens & Berri Reds both contain a wide array of brain directed plant-based ingredients designed to assist kids in reaching their full potential. Coco Greens and Berri Reds are delicious & nutritious supplements to help build up your child’s defenses this winter.Macro Coco Greens for Kids - Natural chocolate Superfood drink kids will ask for every day. Nutritious alternative to sugary chocolate drink mixes. Helps Kids reach 3+ servings of fruits & vegetables.Contains Essential plant-based vitamins/minerals and antioxidants, 3.5 billion probiotics, plus enzymes support young immune system, digestion and absorption.Coco Greens takes guesswork out of children’s supplementation and provides Vitamins C, D and E.Plus is a “green foods” alkalizing source. Delicious most complete KIDS "greens" Superfood!Macro Berri Reds for Kids - Berri delicious part of a healthy breakfast mixed into cereal or as an afternoon drink treat. 19 Super Fruits and Berries Support Active Kid’s Life1 Billion Probiotics, plus enzymes –support immune system, digestion for complete absorption.With Trace mineral blend that aids hydration - Contains Vitamins A, C and D plus fiber.Helps kids get 3+ servings of Super Fruits and Berries.Always Non-GMO, vegan, gluten and dairy free, No HFCS – artificial ingredients.By Your Mother of SuperFoods,Sylvia Ortiz, Founder MacroLife Naturals
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How to Slow Down the Aging Process with Healthy Habits
How to create a FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH and avoid a FOUNTAIN OF DISEASE… What is a Foundation of Disease?Did you realize that disease is an inevitable part of life? If disease doesn’t take us out in our earlier years, no matter how long we live, eventually disease will remove us from the planet. Yet, for the most part this exists only as a result of the greatest money-making industry scam in our world.Which industry do you think makes the most money: vegetable farmers, or the pharmaceutical industry? Which industry makes the most money: organic vegetable farmers, or processed food manufacturers.According to Dr Mic Hall a well-respected health researcher and my personal health coach for 20+ years. “The foundation of Disease can be understood if we look at the reasons a human body is susceptible to disease. Every degenerative disease is made from eight building blocks: toxic metals, chemicals, unusable food residue, dead tissue cells, acid waste, mucus, oxidized arterial plaque, and radiation. Beginning of disease is the result of direct damage to the body, muscle spasms that reduce blood flow or nerve flow; caused by stress or injury, nutritional deficiencies, and/or low energy levels”.A fit and healthy body does not develop disease. I know. That thought starts the question of: how is it that a fit and healthy athlete can just drop dead on the sports field. Well, that's very easy to answer: the athlete was obviously fit, but not healthy; there’s a big difference.The human body is the most brilliant, self-healing mechanism on the planet. So, why isn’t it healing itself, and preventing the development of the degenerative diseases?It comes down to a few lifestyle habits we relate to as being “normal, every-day life.” For thousands of years our bodies have been learning how to heal themselves from various forms of disease and damage. Yet, with all the healthy benefits we enjoy today, the following habits undermine the benefits and technology, and kill us with disease.What are the habits responsible for modern-day diseases? Too much sitting. Using light bulbs to add 3 or 4 hours every day. Consuming vegetable oils. Exposure to chlorinated water and anti-biotics. Over-use of air conditioning, lack of exercise or hard work in the sun. Eating mineral deficient food. These simple habits don’t sound very dangerous or destructive, yet, they are the real reasons behind the start of conditions our bodies cannot overcome and result in the development of degenerative disease.How is this possible, you ask?Excessive sitting allows the lower back muscles to get weak. Weak muscles congest, the congestion stresses the muscles, the body then uses calcium to calm the stress, the calcium contracts the muscle into a chronic spasm, reducing the nerve flow from the lower back to the colon, creating a restriction in the colon, which causes the body’s trash can to recycle, back into the bloodstream, a portion of the waste material that it needs to eliminate. This is the main cause for the liver, kidneys, and the whole body to become overwhelmed with the building blocks of disease.All of our lives, we have had light bulbs. A Hundred and fifty years ago, soon after the chickens went to bed, everyone would blow out their candles and go to bed themselves. We know only a life where the use of light bulbs allows us to extend our days by three or four hours. Besides our over-filled lives, the extra time in our days is a major reason why we are drained of energy by the time we reach 40 years.Vegetable oil is the main oil used in the food industry. Vegetable oil is extremely inflammatory to our arteries. Without realizing it, we have consumed great quantities of vegetable oils, mostly without knowing it. Between the exposure of vegetable oils and a common vitamin C deficiency, our arteries have been inflamed, and damaged throughout our lives. Our bodies have been patching these damaged arteries with a substance (a-lipoprotein) that is used to patch the damaged areas. This lipoprotein eventually oxidizes because of the large volume of oxygen in our blood.This oxidized arterial material then flakes off from the arterial walls, joins circulating blood, and eventually get filtered from the blood by the liver. The liver releases this oxidized, waxy fat into the gallbladder, which is the liver’s trashcan. The gallbladder releases this into the intestinal tract for elimination. Unfortunately, most of us are chronically deficient of the organic sodium contained in green vegetables. Without this alkaline, organic mineral in our bile to keep these small particles moving, they become sticky and develop into masses within the gallbladder, forming what are referred to as: cholesterol balls.Gallbladder attacks are caused by the same thing that allowed the gallstones to form: the deficiency of organic sodium. The sodium is meant to keep the bile alkaline. When the bile turns acidic, it irritates and inflames the lining of the gallbladder, and is responsible for gallbladder attacks and the symptoms of gallbladder problems when a person consumes the wrong foods; usually bad, cooked fats.Chlorinated water or antibiotics, both destroy the friendly bacteria in our intestinal tracts. Ideally, there should be a balance between the friendly bacteria and the unfriendly. Unfriendly bacteria work well to finalize the breakdown of food particles. But then, because the unfriendly bacteria create so much toxic waste in this process, a larger volume of friendly bacteria must be present to neutralize this toxicity. Did you know that your arm pits are gauges that indicate how healthy your colon function is? When you perspire, to the degree that your arm pits give off an odor, you know there’s a problem. As strange as it sounds, perspiration should not have an odor. If it smells as though something is rotting, there are things rotting in the colon that shouldn’t be there. The recycling of this rotting waste is what poisons the bloodstream and provides the building blocks for disease.The body consists of over 75 trillion cells. Every cell produces acid waste 24 hours a day. Since we usually lack sufficient alkaline minerals to neutralize all this acid, it is important to be able to force this acid out through the skin by perspiration. Yet, if we are always using an air conditioner, and not exercising enough to break a good sweat to force this acid waste out through the skin (which is the largest organ of elimination of the body), then we accumulate the acid waste within the body and it becomes a building block for disease.You need to EAT Your GreensThe reason we eat vegetables is because they are a source of essential alkaline minerals that we need for neutralizing the acids in our bodies, transmitting energy, activating every vitamin, and performing chemical functions. When we don’t consume enough fresh vegetables or drink vegetable juices, we slowly use up all our minerals, and in a mineral deficient state, we develop disease.Create a FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH Simple steps to follow in order to create a level of health where disease cannot exist: Add Organic plant sodium and minerals. Celery juice is a great source to add to your diet, I like to drink 4ounces of room temperature celery juice in the morning. Macro Greens is another wonderful source of organic plant sodium, minerals and Vit C from: Barley Grass, Spinach, crack-cell Chlorella and Dulse Seaweed that are packed with Vitamins B6, B12 and magnesium which help break down the masses of toxic calcium Oxalate (primary cause for stones) in the gallbladder and kidneys. Adding both celery juice and MacroGreens can transform your health and digestion in as little as one week. ... by helping to counteract acidosis, purify the bloodstream, aid in digestion, prevent migraines, relax the nerves, reduce blood pressure, & clear up skin problems.OXIDATION = How to Get Old Fast…block oxidation with a wide Spectrum of Antioxidants.Different Antioxidants diffuse different free-radicals and provide different protective functions. Just like different vitamins & minerals support different systems of the body. For example, Vit D assists immune function, Calcium helps build strong bones, Iron supports blood cells for oxygen to your muscle and so on. A diet high in Antioxidants may reduce the risk of many diseases (including heart disease and certain cancers). Antioxidants scavenge free radicals from the body cells and prevent or reduce the damage caused by oxidation. Antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals, unstable molecules that the body produces as a reaction to environmental and other pressures. They are sometimes called “free-radical scavengers”. Miracle Reds contains 19 Antioxidant-Rich Fruits & Berries, with specialized antioxidants Gogi, Acai & Mangosteen PLUS 600mg of organic beets. Beetroot juice have been associated with numerous health benefits, including improved blood flow, lower blood pressure, and increased exercise performance. Miracle Reds is your go to for the widest spectrum of antioxidants on the market today!Slow down AgingA diet that includes probiotics and phytonutrients may contribute to looking and feeling younger, many studies confirm certain diet and lifestyle changes may knock off as much as three years in biological age.... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGgCHl0loyg&width=1080&height=608Use Macro Greens and Miracle Reds consistently, while doing exercises for the neck, upper back, and the lower back. Detox your Body gently all year with a glass of Macro Greens daily. Be consistent with a 1 to 3 Day Macro detox/cleanse monthly until the wisdom within indicates differently.Make a list of every stressor in your life and work diligently to eliminate every one possible. Then, those that cannot be eliminated, re-perceive the positive of those that remain, and focus upon those positives.Play like a child every day. Focus and give joy permission to express itself in your daily life. Make a list of everything that brings you joy and focus upon these things and make them a part of your life. Life is joy, life is energy, life is wisdom, life is the greatest treasure. The essence of life is synonymous with the totality of what we call GodBe HAPPY Be HEALTHY,Sylvia Ortiz – Your Mother of SuperFoodsWritten by Sylvia Ortiz, Founder of MacroLife Naturals
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How to Raise a Healthy and Vibrant Child
As the summer draws near, the focus changes from school to camp and vacation for most parents. For many parents this traditionally means shopping for summer clothes and snacks, but in today's competitive environment, many parents are looking for ways to boost their children's health and ability to frolic and play and this means paying attention to their children's nutritional needs. The brain and body of growing children need high quality fuel and nutrients to function at their best and to give them a better chance to succeed in sports and school.Children today are at risk for nutrient deficiency due to unhealthy diets consisting primarily of sugar-sweetened drinks, processed foods, erratic eating patterns, and fussy appetites. Children are vulnerable because they don't yet have the knowledge to make healthy dietary choices and they have to rely on what their parents purchase and what the school is serving. Since most schools offer soft drinks and junk food, many kids have a stiff challenge adopting a healthy diet when in school.It is no secret that an increasing number of children are overweight and suffer from obesity. Today, nearly one in three children is overweight or obese. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) estimated that nearly 27% of children and adolescents aged 2-12 years are obese. Why is this of great concern? School children have far more than math equations to worry about; children are developing obesity-related chronic diseases that were previously predominant only in adults such as, poor glucose and insulin metabolism, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, type-2 diabetes, and heart disease. Overweight kids also suffer from sleep apnea, asthma, allergies, orthopedic complications, and negative psychosocial effects & stigma, which can have a negative effect on school behavior and performance.Parents must take a stance to give kids a fighting chance at succeeding with their health. We have to help our children adopt a healthier diet by removing junk food and by adding 3 basic supplements: vitamins/minerals, omega oils, and probiotics. Vitamins are elementary to our body's function; vitamin A is essential and a strong immune system. B vitamins are normally considered the "stress" vitamins because they are vital for a healthy nervous system, which is very important as kids manage peer pressure and the stress of performance and getting good grades. Vitamin C is involved in energy production, immune support, and is necessary for healthy bones and skin. Vitamin D is required for calcium absorption as well as mental wellness which kids definitely need to get their school work done, excel in sports, and participate in extracurricular activities.While all minerals are important, perhaps the most important to a growing body are calcium & magnesium, as they support bone health, plus trace minerals help keep kids hydrated that they can struggle with due to playing and sweating. There certainly are a multitude of children's supplements, but unfortunately many have artificial ingredients, dyes, and worst of all, refined sugar. Young children's digestive systems are not fully developed and tablets and capsules tend to upset their stomachs, so plant/food-based organic powdered or liquid supplements are the best choice for kids because they are easy to digest and they can be taken alone or in beverages such as juice or smoothies.Finally, Probiotics are "friendly" bacteria that have adapted to our intestinal tract and known as our microbiome. They help digestion, support the immune system, suppress infectious bacteria, produce vitamins and enzymes that reduce lactose intolerance, fight yeast infections, protect the intestinal wall, and play a role in reducing inflammation. Initially, we pick up the first probiotics as we pass through the birth canal and then from breast milk and our parent's skin. Being born by c-section and not breast feeding will create disadvantages that some scientists are associating with allergies, asthma, and autoimmune problems because the immune system may not develop adequately. Probiotics are important to all of us but they will be even more important for these children. While probiotics might be a staple for keeping children's immune systems strong and an upset stomach at bay, science is demonstrating that probiotics and a healthy microbiome influence what we eat, weight gain, insulin resistance, and even reducing stress.Children don't have it as easy as it might seem these days. There is mounting pressure from demanding parents to do well in school, peer-pressure, rising school and societal expectations, not to mention the awkwardness of an ever-changing body, and growing, up to become a "well-adjusted" young adult. The least of their concerns is probably their nutrition, yet it is probably what will make the greatest impact on their overall development and set the foundation for the rest of their life.Let the Children Frolic and Play dancing and booging to music or excelling in martial arts. How you ask; Best to choose a blend that can be easily mixed into their smoothies, juice, oatmeal, cereal, yogurt, popcorn, or many other foods. Adding a complete supplement can also help students and athletes with their stamina, energy, recovery, and overall performance.Coco Greens plant based nutrient dense multi-vitamin, multi mineral, probiotic rich formula takes the guesswork out of a child’s supplementation and Berri Reds is a berri delicious way to add full spectrum Antioxidants plus Vitamins & Minerals.Key Benefits: Coco Greens Multi-vitamin and multi-mineral formula 3.5 billion healthy probiotics Plant Based Vitamins A,C, D & E Contains calcium, magnesium, trace minerals and electrolytes Alkalizing green food concentrates Good source of fiber NO high fructose corn syrup or artificial ingredients Berri Reds A-Z Multi-vitamin and multi-mineral formula 1 billion healthy probiotics Plant Based Vitamins A, C & D Contains calcium, magnesium, trace minerals and electrolytes NO high fructose corn syrup or artificial ingredients Written by Sylvia Ortiz, Founder of MacroLife Naturals and Mother of SuperFoods
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Get In Shape for Summer
It’s time to start getting ready for summer! Especially if you want to be in good shape for your vacation trips, wherever you go. It takes a few weeks to be able to lose extra pounds so you can wear your bathing suit comfortably, or to build more muscle mass to show off a great body playing volleyball on the beaches!Get the Energy You Need with Protein Made from Whole FoodsBoost your energy from morning ‘til night with our SuperFood-based protein powders MacroMeal - Time Released Protein is packed with amino acids to help your body recover faster from a workout. Made with Four Optimal Proteins; Collagen Peptides, Whey from the nutritious milk of pasture-raised cows and Organic Brown Rice and Pea Protein concentrate which keeps you full and promotes sustained stamina throughout the day. Plus, Macro Meal is packed with vitamins, minerals and enzymes from our SuperFood Blend along with MCT Coconut Oil (healthy fat) and 3-Billion Probiotics that other powders don’t have.Our Vegan Protein is an allergen-free source of protein that's great for those that don’t or can’t consume milk products. The Vegan formula provides Four Time Released Proteins for sustained energy as well as All Star line up of our SuperFood Blend, MCT Coconut Oil (healthy fat) and 3-Billion Probiotics, enzymes, trace minerals that other vegan powders don’t have.MacroMeal Omni and Vegan Protein formulas deliver 25gram of high-quality protein per serving that equals 50% of your RDA. This helps you build healthy muscles and replenish your energy after exercising. Add an array of wonderful antioxidant benefits, healthy fats and low carbohydrates and you're ready to face the day! Easy and quick to prepare, our protein powders are perfect for your busy morning routine – no need to skip breakfast ever again.Why Supplement Your Diet with a High-Quality Protein Powder?As you age, your body gradually loses its ability to produce critical amino acids – the building blocks of proteins you need for energy production, immune function and protein buildup in the muscle. However, the need to supplement with these amnio acids increases as you get older and even more during times of high physical stress, like after a workout or when recovering from an injury or illness. All proteins are comprised of amino acids, considered the building blocks of life. Your muscles, skin, hair, tendons and cartilage are all made of amino acids. Protein also helps form your enzymes, hormones, and replacement tissues and cells. Your body can make all except nine of about 20 amino acids in the human body. These nine amino acids are essential because you can only obtain their benefits through diet MacroMeals provides ALL Essential & non-Essential amnio acids your body needs.But first things first – you have to make sure you choose the right protein powder for your lifestyle.Both Chocolate & Vanilla protein powders have a delicious taste. We spent so much time working to combine the right protein powders and get the taste just right, because despite any added benefits, if it doesn’t taste good, you or us won't use it. Take a look at both Omni & Vegan MacroMeals below and consider your lifestyle to see which one will work best for you: Omni MacroMeal Time Released protein powder, delivers 25grams protein and 50% of your RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance) Comes in great-tasting flavors: chocolate, & vanilla. A premium product designed to support your overall health and fitness level, MacroMeal contains a carefully selected blend of high-quality collagen peptides, whey protein, organic brown rice protein & pea protein + probiotics, MCT coconut oil, enzymes, superfood blend, trace minerals and fiber to give you an edge over the competition.Vegan Macro Meal Protein Suitable for vegans, our complete Vegan Protein includes a perfect blend of three high-quality plant proteins from organic brown rice concentrate, pea concentrate and pea protein isolate– along with a probiotics, enzymes to support digestion. PLUS, MCT coconut oil, superfood blend, trace minerals and quality fiber to keep you full longer.I came up with the term “integrative beauty.” What it means is that we cannot look beautiful and have a radiant skin and fuller hair if we do not address the various factors of the aging process. This starts with general vitality and good heath of the body. Our skin will look better if you have a good diet, great hydration, not too much stress and good sleep.We’ve taken most of your guesswork out of finding the perfect complete protein powder for you. That’s why we offer MacroMeals in two different and unique protein powders to meet the needs of Omnivores and Vegans.Stay Healthy and LeanSylvia OrtizIn Case You Missed It: Recent Blog Posts:Happy, Healthy New Year - let's start off right!How to Slow Down the Aging Process with Healthy HabitsHow to Raise a Healthy and Vibrant Child
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Happy, healthy new year! Let’s start it off right!
Would you love faster fat loss, fewer cravings, steady and soaring energy levels, improved cholesterol, healthy blood pressure, and stable blood-sugar!?!Now you can, and safe to say, there are many amazing health benefits from following an “alkalizing ketogenic diet”. Maintaining a Keto and alkalizing diet is difficult to achieve, and more of an oxymoron. Read whether a Keto diet is right for you. A Keto diet is really hard to maintain.To get the full list of benefits, 75% of your calories have to come from healthy fats and limited protein. Yes, you read that correctly. And there’s a big misconception here:Cutting Out Carbs is Not The Same As “Going Keto”The true definition of “going keto” is having elevated levels of ketones in your blood. Which only happens when your body doesn’t have enough carbs and protein to make glucose.So even if you cut your carbs dramatically, any excess protein you consume will be converted to glucose by your liver, and the keto “switch” never gets turned on. But when your cells are starved of glucose, your body “flips a switch” to burn fat instead. These fats are converted into ketones, which are used instead of glucose for energy production. Problem is ketosis is very acidic and generally speaking an unhealthy solution. Unless of course you add MacroGreens to alkalize your system.To effectively “go keto”, you have to cut out most carbs AND reduce protein, while basically living off a steady diet of avocado and nut butter! Bye bye pizza, pasta, steak and everything else that makes this world we live in so wonderful… :(Okay, I know I’m being a bit cynical. The truth is, I don’t want to totally slam keto. For those who stick with it, the effects are awesome.But we have found that people have difficulty following any sort of restrictive diet. When that happens, their confidence levels plummet, and their health gets worse, not better.Yet every day folks are choosing to GET HEALTHY and LOSE WEIGHT by simply making a MacroMeal shake to replace one meal daily. Check out this weight loss blog for more tips. I like replacing lunch and having a small snack + Miracle Reds later in the afternoon to help keep me from being too hungry for dinner. Then have a healthy meal comprised of two-thirds veggies and one-third about 4oz lean protein. Countless men and women made huge progress in just months following this plan. From increasing their endurance, to fitting into old clothes and learning to love themselves for the first time in ages, just look at the Testimonials... “My name is Victor ikani, and I am a bodybuilding/physique competitor. I have been using Macrolife for over 2 years. Macrolife has changed my body tremendously, and has also helped me accomplish my dietary goals during preparation for my Olympia classic physique competition. Some of the results and changes I’ve noticed upon using this product include lean muscle mass, muscle growth, and most importantly, easy to digest.” – Victor, Los Angeles "We really like this stuff, our entire family enjoys a MacroMeal shake almost daily, the ingredients are high quality! I was just recently diagnosed with gestational diabetes with my third pregnancy and this is great for my smoothie bowl "ice cream" treat at night." – Lindsay B "Best protein powder I’ve ever tried. Love this. Time release protein!" – Drea We want to do something special for MacroLife customers and our loyal subscription members by kicking off the New Year with a batch ofMacroMeals fat-melting, energy-giving solutions. Enjoy a free shaker bottle with each purchase of MacroMeals for the month of January, 2021! The bottles have been moving fast! We’re already sent over 150 bottles, and there’s only a few hundred left.So please, don’t hesitate to stock up before our shelves run empty.To your health,Sylvia Ortiz Mother of Superfoods
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9 Healthy ways to manage your weight – You’ve got this!
Managing your weight is something you can do—and actually enjoy—when you have the tips and tools you need. MacroLife is here to help with Heart Health Superfood Heroes. They will keep you on the path with nutritious superfoods, all-in-one protein shakes, workout routines, recipes, plus the latest news to help you stay in control. Whether you want to lose weight or simply maintain it, you can do it and you got this!Heart Health Superfood HeroesPlant Sterols, Beets, Oat Beta Glucan and Turmeric are research-backed standouts that lower blood pressure, fight inflammation and slash stroke risk. When it comes to heart health, you probably know what the American Heart Association (AHA) offers as its top diet advice: Eat a good balance of fresh, fiber-rich fruits and veggies, whole grains, and healthy proteins such as nuts, skinless fish and poultry. But recent studies have also named specific cardiovascular all-stars that are worth adding to your rotation. Here are a few standouts to add to your grocery list.BeetsWhy: Beets deserve a badge of honor in the veggie family, says Jorge A. Brenes-Salazar, M.D., a geriatric cardiologist and assistant professor of medicine at the Mayo Clinic. That's due to their high doses of nitrates, which help keep blood vessels dilated and healthy. A 2013 British study showed that simply drinking a cup of beet juice daily significantly lowered blood pressure in hypertensive patients.Also know: When it comes to heart health, it pays to see red — or orange or yellow. Fruits and veggies with those colors have carotenoids, flavonoids and polyphenols, pigments known for their heart-healthy antioxidant properties. Try these other colofrful nutrient-rich veggies and fruit: carrots, sweet potatoes, acorn squash, oranges, cantaloupe and papaya.Pumpkin seeds and walnutsWhy: A study presented in 2019 at the AHA's Hypertension Scientific Sessions found that eating pumpkin seeds may help lower blood pressure. According to the AHA, pumpkin seeds are rich in fiber and a variety of nutrients, particularly heart-healthy magnesium (a quarter cup contains 42 percent of the RDA of the mineral). As for walnuts, a 2019 Penn State study found that participants who ate walnuts daily while lowering overall saturated fats saw their blood pressure decrease.Also good to know: All nuts are good sources of monounsaturated fats and for people who don't eat fish, they are a good way to get in those omega-3 fats. A 2019 study presented at the European Society of Cardiology showed that eating nuts two or more times a week was associated with a 17 percent lower risk of cardiovascular death. But remember one word: moderation. These are calorie-dense foods, so keep portions modest (about ¼ to ½ serving) and avoid added salt, sugars and oils. I recommend limiting yourself each day to “an amount that will fit in the palm of your hand."TofuWhy: Researchers at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital reported in 2020 that a study of more than 200,000 people found a link between consuming isoflavone rich tofu more than once a week had an 18 percent lower risk of heart disease. Plus, tofu is a great source of plant protein, so it's a smart substitute for red meat or pork. It also has phytosterols — plant sterols that actually improve the cholesterol in our own bodies. What's more, the latest USDA dietary guidelines, issued in December, recommend around 5 to 6 ounces of protein (from meat, chicken, eggs, fish, nuts or soy products) a day. When people are heavy meat eaters, they need to slowly find ways to replace the meat with other healthy foods, and tofu is one.Olives and olive oilsWhy: If you've heard of the Mediterranean diet (and who hasn't?), then you know all about olive oil. It not only boosts good, heart-protective cholesterol but also staves off diabetes and strokes. Recent research confirms its beneficial effects: Plus a 2020 European study found that patients who had had heart attacks and subsequently followed a Mediterranean diet high in olive oil had better repair of the arterial linings; a 2020 study by the University of Minnesota Medical School showed that olive oil may help people live longer.Try to follow the USDA guidelines of 27 grams (about two tablespoons) a day. As for olives, make sure you buy the low-sodium variety. Speaking of oils, Brenes-Salazar warns against the recently voguish coconut oil; instead, he suggests using either olive or walnut oil, which is neutral in flavor, rich in monounsaturated fats and low in saturated ones.Garbanzo beansWhy: First, they're full of fiber, which can help lower your bad LDL (lousy lipid cholesterol) cholesterol. Second, beans are an overlooked source of good-quality protein. Additionally all members of the legume family are super healthy because they are full of plant-based protein and the kind of fiber that lowers cholesterol and helps to stabilize your blood sugar levels.Also try: Other heart-healthy legumes — pinto beans, red beans, kidney beans and black beans. Keep in mind, canned beans can be high in salt, so rinse them thoroughly in water or use dried beans. OatmealWhy: Praised for its healthy properties for a half-century, fiber-rich oatmeal cuts down on cholesterol absorption and contributes to gut health and oatmeal is a good source of healthy fiber. Soluble fiber is really important for our digestive tract and keeping blood sugar levels stable.Be adventurous and try: quinoa, buckwheat and whole-grain rice (brown, black and wild), or whole-grain bread and cereal. Make sure to read the nutrition label and look for ‘whole-grain’ as the first ingredient. SalmonWhy: The AHA recently reaffirmed its long-standing recommendation to eat fish — especially salmon and other oily fishes that are high in omega-3 fatty acids — twice a week to help fend off the risk of heart attack, stroke and other coronary disease. It may not be just the omega-3s that are good for you; a 2018 study found that an ingredient in fish and other seafood called trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) may also reduce hypertension-related symptoms.BlueberriesWhy: They're high in soluble fiber and polyphenols (antioxidants that absorb free radicals that damage healthy cells) and vitamin C.Also try: All berries— strawberries, raspberries, blackberries — that possess heart-healthy credentials for their fiber as well as their flavonoids and antioxidants. Hate berries? Consider organic red grapes, that are high in resveratrol, a heart-healthy antioxidant.Goji BerrisWhy: – These small nuggets contain 17 amino acids (protein building blocks). Rich in vitamin A that may have anti-aging benefits. Plus special compounds to help boost immune function & protect vision. As well as Beta-sitosterol, a highly researched anti-inflammatory agent known to help lower cholesterol.Miracle Reds 4-in1 formulaWhy: Miracle Reds Full Spectrum Fruit & Berry blend contains 19 organic berries and fruits rich in polyphenols, carotenoids flavonoids, 200mg Organic Beet root juice + 670mg Plant Sterols and Oat Beta Glucan (ingredient found in Oatmeal) + Anti-Inflammatory heroes Bromelain & Turmeric, and for good measure 3Billion Probiotics for immune support.Miracle Reds 4in1 Formula is your go to for cholesterol, heart and inflammation support. We love to hear from you. Please send us your comments and any questions. Written by Sylvia Ortiz, Founder of MacroLife Naturals and Mother of SuperFoods
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Heart Health - Miracle Reds Helps Support Cholesterol Levels
Healthy Cholesterol with Plant Sterols Your heart beats about 2.5 billion times over an average lifetime, moving millions of gallons of blood to every part of your body. This steady flow carries oxygen, fuel, hormones, other compounds, along with essential cells. It also carries away metabolic waste. When the heart stops, essential functions fail, some almost instantly.Given the heart's constant workload, it's miraculous it performs so well, for so long, and for so many people. But it can also fail, knocked down by poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, infection, unlucky genes, and more.Nutrition Reviews researchers from the University of California, Davis, Medical Center, concluded: “Present evidence is accumulating to promote the use for lowering LDL cholesterol levels, as a first line of therapy (as well as secondary therapy) in patients on statin therapy.” Phytosterols and Cholesterol Most people know that we need to be addressing our heart and cholesterol health— but not enough of us are aware that phytosterols, the substance found in a few select plants, and naturally in small amounts in grains, vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, and seeds, actually help to lower your cholesterol. The United States Food and Drug Administration allows claims for phytosterol health benefits, noting that they can reduce LDL cholesterol and the risk of heart disease. Indeed, it’s why we can tell you Miracle Reds may help lower your cholesterol and reduce your risk of heart disease—because it delivers critical amounts of phytosterols. Researchers reporting in Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen found that an intake of two to three grams of plant sterols per day “is associated with a 10 percent reduction of total cholesterol and a 13 to 15 percent reduction of LDL cholesterol , whereas HDL cholesterol remains largely unchanged.” Heart-friendly Miracle Reds® from MacroLife Naturals is more than a great-tasting fruit blend that’s perfect for delivering high-value antioxidants in a complete phytonutrient, anti-aging herbal formula. The high oxygen free-radical absorption capacity (ORAC) supplement base consists of goji berry, pomegranate, açaí and mangosteen—four of the most bountiful antioxidant SuperFruits. Plus it’s loaded with phytosterols, nature’s cholesterol fighters, making it a fantastic heart healthy formula.In the November 2019 issue of Atherosclerosis researchers showed the long-term benefits of phytosterols. This prospective study of 232 men (with an average age of 60 years) at high risk of heart disease measured the levels of phytosterols in their blood and concluded: “Higher serum plant sterol levels in middle-aged men predicted lower long-term mortality risk, possibly reflecting an association between higher synthesis/lower absorption of cholesterol and mortality.”Vibrant Health Made Easy With 19 different fruits and an array of herbal extracts, vitamins, minerals, fiber and probiotics, MacrolIfe Natural's Miracle Reds supports heart health and so much more.Let's take a look at some of the key ingredients: Pomegranate: Evidence suggests pomegranate improves cardiovascular function, brain tissue, bone mass and prostate health. It's high in polyphenols, carotenes and phytonutrient antioxidants—compounds sorely missing in typical diets. Grape Seed Extract: It’s 50 times more potent than vitamin E, and 20 times that of vitamin C. It strengthens connective tissue and improves elasticity of the skin by stabilizing collagen and elastin. Goji Berries: Himalayan mountain goji berries contain amino acids and more (non-heme/bioavailable vegetarian) iron than spinach. Plant Sterols: As mentioned earlier, studies show that consuming plant sterols provides ground breaking heart protection and significant cholesterol-lowering benefits. Mangosteen Fruit: This fruit provides xanthones, which are some of the most powerful antioxidants found in nature. These important compounds contain antibacterial, antiseptic and fungicidal properties that support the heart and cardiovascular system, as well as aid in reducing inflammation and pain. Oat Beta-Glucan Fiber: Oat beta-glucan fiber is a biologically active soluble fiber that helps lower blood cholesterol and balances glucose and insulin levels. Açaí 5:1 Extract: Açaí is a rare fruit found deep in the Amazon Rainforest. It’s a concentrated source of anthocyanins and has a naturally high ORAC value. Papaya: Papayas offer a rich source of antioxidant nutrients such as carotenes, vitamin C, B vitamins and folate. They also contain the enzyme, papain, which aids with digestion. Containing 3 billion non-dairy “friendly bacteria” per serving, that helps with the digestion of foods and also with the absorption of vitamins and minerals. Loaded with so many powerhouse ingredients, Miracle Reds provides a refreshingly delicious way to do something good for your health and your heart. Enjoy it mixed with juice or water any time of day!
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Keto Everything – Is it Right For You?
What’s the skinny on Keto? At MacroLife, we researched dietitian recommendations and evaluated their information to bring you the true skinny on Keto.Why Is Protein Important On Keto?We all know that fat steals the show on the keto diet. Even though experts recommend consuming up to 80 percent of your daily calories from fat, protein is still vital!Protein is important on a keto diet—and any diet for that matter to support and maintain lean body mass and structural strength, says dietitian Randall Evans, M.S., R.D.N., L.D. “Our bodies cannot make certain essential amino acids, so we have to get them by consuming protein.” Plus, protein supports alertness and stamina, and repairs damaged muscles. It becomes especially important for performance and recovery if you’re working out on Keto.Trying to find the right protein for your needs can be challenging – especially if you have specific health and fitness goals or dietary restrictions. Now throw Keto diet into the mix and your pursuit becomes even more complex.How Much Is Too Much Protein?Too much protein can actually interfere with your body’s ability to produce ketones and get you into the fat burning zone. “For protein, target 0.6 grams per pound of lean body mass per day, which is often 60 to 90 grams, depending on body composition,” says Evans. “You don’t want to overeat protein, because it can be converted into glucose in a process called gluconeogenesis.”This means protein powders that pack 40 grams of protein might mess with your fat-burning results. Remember: On Keto, fat is your primary fuel source!Which Protein Should You Take?Your most sought after Keto protein powder should provide a moderate amount of protein, a good dose of fat, and zero sugar. Reasons You’re Not Seeing Results On Keto You’re Dehydrated Too often, we misinterpret dehydration for cravings or hunger and end up eating more than we really need. And considering the effect a Keto diet has on hydration, it’s an easy trap for high-fat eaters to fall into.You see, the Keto diet depletes glycogen, a form of sugar we store in our muscles and liver. And since every molecule of glycogen we store also stores several molecules of water, as we shed glycogen, we shed water, too, says Suzanne Dixon, R.D.As such, we end up ‘dry’ on Keto, meaning our body tissues hold less water in general. This typically makes Keto eaters usually feel thirstier. If you’re mistaking thirst for hunger and overeating or just feel generally ‘blah’ on Keto, chances are you need more H2O. To ensure best hydration, we recommend drinking enough water to keep your urine pale yellow. Always a good recommendation for any diet or nutritional plan you’re on ☺ You’re Eating Too Much It may be hard to believe, but it’s usually hard to overeat fat. But once your body has adjusted to a Keto diet—it is possible. When you consider that fat packs nine calories per gram (twice as much as protein and carbs), those extra calories add up fast.It’s key that you tune into—and listen to—your body’s hunger signals when following Keto. Excess calories are still extra calories, even if they’re sugar-free. That includes yummy keto-friendly brownies and fudgy fat treats. The fact that they’re in theory Keto doesn’t mean they should be daily staples, they’re still treats. You’re Eating The Wrong Types Of Fats Though on a healthy keto diet there’s certainly a place for high-quality butter and bacon, going overboard on certain types of fats can impact how you feel. Butter and bacon are high in certain saturated fats and some meats are often processed. Over time, over-consumption of these foods has been linked to increased risk of weight gain and disease. In fact, the World Health Organization has processed meats as ‘group one’ carcinogens, meaning scientific evidence confirms their danger to human health. Plus, filling your plate with fats like butter and bacon means you’re likely not getting your fill of healthy, plant-based fats like avocado, nuts, and olive oil. These types of fatty foods contain unsaturated fats. They are rich in a variety of nutrients that have been shown to support long-term health. You’re Not Working Out If you’re on a keto diet to care for your overall health and well-being, there’s no getting around working out: You’ve got to move your body! Although you likely won’t have much energy for exercise as your body adapts to using fat for energy the first few weeks on Keto, you should be able to get back on track when you’ve adapted.Once that initial ‘Keto flu’ transition phase usually about a week passes, schedule moderate exercise—like cycling, jogging, yoga, or light weightlifting—regularly. (Just keep in mind that since Keto depletes carb stores, high-intensity interval training HIIT and heavy lifting might feel unexciting. Never-the less staying active is central to your mental, emotional, and physical wellness, but it’ll also help ensure you see weight-loss results you’re hoping to get out of Keto.Which Protein Should You Take?Our Holy Grail Keto protein powder you may have guessed is; MacroLife MacroMeals. WHY? Because your protein powder should provide a moderate amount of protein, a good dose of fat, and zero sugar. MacroMeals do just that, and more….. MacroMeals provide 25g of Time Released Protein that satiate you quickly, and keep you full longer MCT coconut oil a "Healthy Fat" source for long lasting energy 3 Billion Probiotics + Digestive Enzymes & Aloe Vera Aid digestion & improves absorption Coconut Water & Trace Mineral blend helps keep you hydrated. And our favorite They are fortified with the goodness of Macro Greens® and Miracle Reds®. 3g Nutrient Rich Fiber Blend MacroMeals come in delicious chocolate and vanilla in both "OMNI" (conscience omnivores) and Vegan versions. They are also Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Dairy Free, and OMNI rBST – Hormone FREE.There's the skinny on Keto, and a Keto-friendly MacroLife MacroMeals Ultimate Protein for sustained energy & focus!Written by Sylvia Ortiz, Founder of MacroLife Naturals and Mother of SuperFoods
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