MacroLife Blog
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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Protein is Important to Every Cell in Your Body
Did you know that protein is important to every cell in your body? It helps lower your blood pressure, increase strength and it’s good for your bones! Protein is an especially important part of our diet as we age and when we say age everyone over 25 ?. That’s why we’re calling on you to answer the question below about these packed-with-protein foods! Question: Which Protein has the most Protein? Fish, Chicken, or Lentils?Answer: Chicken!Per 100 grams, lean chicken breast has 32.1 grams of protein, followed by tuna at 29.9 grams, and lentils at 9 grams. MacroLife MacroMeals provide 50% of your Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA) for protein! Plus MacroMeals are time released with fast, medium, and slow digesting protein blends that help nip hunger fast, and keep you full longer. MacroMeals are the ULTIMATE Protein Superfood. Complete Omni and Vegan plant-based protein formulas are made with organic greens, fruits & veggies. Which Protein is Right for You? What’s the difference you ask? Read on….and decide which is best for you.Omni (Omnivore) Protein is Your Collagen Solution made to support healthy muscle, hair, skin and nails. Omni Protein provides 25 grams of fast, medium, and slow digesting protein blend from 90% Collagen Peptides, Whey Protein Concentrate, Pea Protein and, Organic Brown Rice Protein Farm fresh organic barley greens with nutrient-dense fruits and veggies plus 3 Billion Probiotics + Digestive Enzymes: aid digestion & absorption ConcenTrace® 72 Trace Minerals for extra hydration MCT OIL: (Coconut oil powder) for sustained energy 3g Nutrient Rich Fiber Blend : (Organic Flax Seed Meal and Apple fiber) Provides 50% RDAs for protein! MacroLife Naturals Omni MacroMeals – Hormone FREE, Non-GMO, Gluten Free, & Keto! Shop Omni MacroMeals MacroMeal Vegan Protein your all in one nutritional protein was mindfully created to provide “Macro & Micro” nutrition. Combines 25 grams of fast, medium, & slow digesting plant-based proteins from 90% Pea Protein Isolate, Pea Protein Concentrate, Organic Brown Rice Protein Concentrate farm fresh organic barley greens with nutrient-dense fruits and veggies plus 3 Billion Probiotics + Digestive Enzymes: aid digestion & absorption ConcenTrace®: 72 Trace Minerals for extra hydration MCT OIL: (Coconut oil powder) for sustained energy Shop Vegan MacroMeals by Sylvia OrtizMother of Superfoods
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Top 5 Antioxidants You Should Take Today
Are you Protecting your healthy cells from free-Radical damage?Antioxidants neutralize free radicals by giving up some of their own electrons. ... This helps your immune system fight intruders, for example, the oxygen it uses spins off an army of free radicals that destroy viruses, bacteria, and damaged body cells in an oxidative burst and offers cellular protection.. Top 5 antioxidants You Should Be Taking to Improve Your Health. Blueberries Raspberries Blackberries Apricots Carrots Each of these help build up the powerful antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD). Miracle Reds contains these plus; Goji, Mangosteen, Acai, pomegranate plus 10 others for a total of 19 SuperFruits and Berries = widest spectrum of Antioxidants in a formula. Antioxidants help you be an Anti-Ager! https://youtu.be/cBGvsVX5IRMHow Do Antioxidants Work?You know that all matter in our universe is made up of atoms. And when connected together, they become molecules. The human body is made up of a bunch of these molecules, forming our DNA, proteins, fats, etc.Humans maintain structure and function, or stay alive, through chemical reactions known as metabolism. These chemical reactions break molecules into smaller pieces, while smaller molecules are organized into larger ones.It’s important for a molecule to be stable. In order for a molecule to be stable, it must have the correct amount of electrons. If it doesn’t, it can turn into a free radical.Free radicals are unstable, electrically charged molecules in the cells.When reacting with other molecules, free radicals damage other molecules, like DNA or the cell membrane. This can be very dangerous and even lead to a chain reaction, like dominoes falling. Researchers claim these free radicals may contribute to the development of health conditions like cancer.Thankfully, antioxidants can fight back against these free radicals by giving them the electrons they need to be properly balanced, and effectively neutralize threats. Macrolife Naturals Macro Greens and Miracle Reds are loaded with important, nutritious and delicious antioxidants. Make them a part of your daily nutrition plan!
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What's the Best Time for Greens and Reds
MacroGreens® SuperFoods MacroGreens is loaded with Organic Barley Grass, Organic Spirulina, nutritious fruits & vegetables, nutrient-dense superfoods, plus adaptogenic herbs that support multiple systems. Macro Greens Superfood is a convenient way to get the whole food nutrition your body needs in a delicious powder that’s simple to enjoy. Simply add one scoop to water or juice, boost your favorite smoothie or even bake into tasty recipes as a convenient way to help fill in nutritional gaps and support overall health and wellness.We’re often asked; What’s the best time of day to drink my Macro Greens and Miracle Reds? There’s no magic time here as to when you should drink your greens. My rule of thumb is to do it when you’re the most consistent. Start your day off right, by drinking a glass of Macro Greens first thing in the morning before breakfast, it will rehydrate your liver, balance blood sugar and energize you. For me, it’s a big glass of greens when I get to the office. I mix 1oz apple juice, a heaping scoop of greens/stir, add 10oz water plus a couple ice cubes and sip away. Provides me with mental clarity and helps me focus.Miracle Reds®SuperFoodMiracle Reds is a rainbow of 19 superfruits, herbs, extracts, plant sterols, and probiotics that goes beyond any other blend of its kind. Each serving surpasses the raw food nutrition of FIVE servings of fruits and berries and contains the widest spectrum of antioxidants. Fortified with plant sterols that research studies have shown to lower cholesterol, and may even reduce the risk of heart disease. Plus Hydrating phytonutrients & enzymes, that may helpreduce muscle soreness. Miracle Reds® the ultimate post-workout recovery formula - perfect for active people.Same holds true for Miracle Reds® best time is when you’re going to be the most consistent. I like to drink my Miracle Reds in the afternoon a few hours after lunch for an afternoon pick me up. Keeps me away from coffee and snacks. For many folks it’s the opposite, reds in the morning and greens in the afternoon. There’s no set schedule. When you’re working out; the Bromelain, Turmeric, Aloe Vera and active Antioxidants in Miracle Reds help to repair tissues and make it a great workout recovery formula!How many servings of Fruits and Veggies should I get a day?Although the recommended is 5 servings of fruits and veggies per day (each recommended serving is only 1/2 cup) - this really isn't sufficient. Personally, and professionally, people do much better with more fruits and vegetables. Experts say 10 servings a day! Research has shown over and over the power of vegetables; because the fiber, vitamins, minerals work synergistically with the phytonutrients and antioxidants. One way to squeeze in more is with MacroLife Macro Greens & Miracle Reds SuperFoods. One scoop contains 5 full servings of fruit and vegetables.Both make delicious smoothies - mix with your favorite non-citrus or non-dairy milk, bananas, frozen strawberries - Add MacroMeal protein powder and you have a complete meal!Gut Health?Gut health is key to immune health and Greens are really important part of your digestive system. In short, they are loaded with fiber. Fiber helps us regulate our blood sugars, it keeps us regular, it reduces cardiovascular disease. Fiber also supplies the good guys in our digestive system. Macro Greens® contain a great source of natural fibers, that work synergistically with the 18-Billion Probiotics and all the vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. So for optimum health it’s great to get your GREENS in….Macro Greens that is!Vitamins C, E and B-12 Immune Boosting Properties As more people learned about the importance of building immunity to stave off strains like COVID-19, internet searches for immunity-boosting supplements skyrocketed. Some suggested adding zinc and vitamins C, D, B12 to one’s diet, yet others recommended chewing on elderberries, echinacea, among other herbs. What we have been missing hearing about is a more holistic and complete approach to building immunity that an ancient healing system that Ayurveda promises, versus a piecemeal approach that we’ve been hearing about.What we can strive for is, to combine healthy lifestyle practices. We can begin with eating a wholesome diet, taking natural herbal supplements to load up on nutrients that fill in nutritional gaps your daily meals may not provide, good sleep, mind-body practices to keep stress at bay. All of these can help us have strong immunity.Your immune system is basically your body’s first line of defense against infection and illness-causing pathogens. It includes a network of immune cells and tissues that fend off pathogens from attacking your body. There are lifestyle triggers like improper sleep, stress, nutritional deficiency, the buildup of toxins, pollution, that can weaken your defense system. One way that people have been trying to strengthen their immune system is, relying on individual supplements like zinc, elderberries, garlic, Andrographis, among others. If only there were a way to have this range of supplements in the form of a cohesive immunity kit, to take total care of our immune system, wouldn’t that be great!?MacroLife’s Macro Greens/Miracle Reds immunity pack fulfills this purpose for you…and then some.
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Successful Daily Routines with MacroLife Naturals
Chelsea is an actress, writer and realtor in Los Angeles. Her travel & health blog, www.travelingfig.com, is her absolute baby and she relishes in the opportunity to share her trials and tribulations of living an organic life on the site.1) What supplements do you take? In addition to MacroLife Greens & Miracle Reds mixed into my daily smoothie, I take a daily multivitamin, probiotic and fish oil.2) How do you make time to exercise? Instead of happy hours or fattening dinners, I try to encourage workout dates with my girlfriends. We keep each other motivated!3) Who or what has inspired you on your health and wellness journey? Well, preparing to get married was definitely a huge motivator! But I would suppose my passion for healthy living began a few years ago when I was suffering from severe digestive issues. I truly believe food can be thy medicine or thy poison, so why would you want to give your body the best possible fuel for optimal living?4) Why do you take MacroLife Naturals products? MacroLife is like insurance in the sense that I know I am getting my daily intake of nutrients and vitamins. But more-so, it is like a reward. A gift to my body for all the hard work it does for me round the clock!5) Which product do you use the most? Macro Greens is my favorite. I love the flavor and nutritional profile. It mixes so perfectly in smoothies and yogurt. It truly takes the guesswork out of trying to sweeten my breakfast without adding excess sugar!6) How has your health changed while taking MacroLife products? When I add MacroLife to my morning breakfast, it sets the rest of my day up for healthy choices. MacroLife isn't just a powder supplement, it's a way of life! Damian Stoy is a professional ultra-marathon runner and founder of Wholistic Running1) What supplements do you take? I take 1-3 servings of Macro Greens daily and a B-12 supplement and iron all for performance enhancement.2) How do you make time to exercise? As a professional endurance athlete, I am very fortunate to have time in the day to train. I train 3-5 hours a day running, strength training, cross training and hiking. I am incredibly thankful for the support and encouragement of others to be able to do what I love.3) Who or what has inspired you on your health and wellness journey? As an athlete, I find health and nutrition fascinating because it is essential for optimal performance. I stay motivated to eat well, which includes a plant-based diet, because it so greatly effects how I feel and how I perform. Also, eating well allows me to recover faster and prevent injuries.4) Why do you take MacroLife Naturals products? MLN products are amazing! They help me recover faster, perform optimally and feel energized every day. I couldn't do what I do without MLN products.5) Which product do you use the most? I use Macro Greens every day! At least one serving and the weeks before a race I will take up to 4 servings a day.6) How has your health changed while taking MacroLife products? Since using MLN products, my energy has increased, my running times have improved and I can run longer. I also never get sick and recover from training really quickly. Bruce Pechman, The Muscleman of Technology (www.MrBicep.com) is the most prolific major Consumer Technology & Health/Fitness Television Correspondent in the country! Bruce will be 65 years old in 2021 and plans to continues his quest to compete in bodybuilding.1) What supplements do you take? On a daily basis, I try to take under the tongue vitamin B-12, vitamin D, vitamin K2, and magnesium. And of course, I mix my organic USDA vanilla whey with MacroLife Naturals Macro Greens in the morning before my workout, and MacroLife Naturals Miracle Reds with water right after my workout.2) How do you make time to exercise? Working out is a way of life to me which I take very seriously. I try not to miss going to the gym everyday—but I only train each body part twice a week so I don’t over train or under train. I stay consistent by either getting to the gym every morning before 9 am, or if I have a super busy day when I’m done with my obligations…no excuses if exercise is truly a major component of your life (and it should be because without your health you have nothing!)3) Who or what has inspired you on your health and wellness journey? I was a very skinny 13 year old kid in NYC and I always was getting picked on, then I saw the pro bodybuilders in the physique magazines. I knew I may not look like that…but I was sure going to try with every muscle fiber in my body to pack on some muscle – LOL!4) Why do you take MacroLife Naturals products? I did a ton of research on green powder supplements, and there are quite a few in the stores these days. Remember, hardly anyone gets the required amount of daily fruits & veggies including me so this was super important for me. Plus, with MacroLife Naturals Macro Greens I emailed the company very specific tough questions about how Macro Greens is sourced and made and they were so detailed in their answers without any attitude. They made me a believer! The best part is MacroLife Naturals formulation…it’s a superb tasting green product that mixes well with almost any fluid including water!5) Which product do you use the most? Macro Greens every morning mixed in with my vanilla organic whey. When I get to the gym, I’m feeling like a caged animal ready to pump some serious iron and ready to flex my biceps because I know I have Macro Greens running through my veins!6) How has your health changed while taking MacroLife products? For one thing I’m much more regular in the mornings thanks to Macro Greens 18 billion probiotics if you know what I mean. I’m more alert throughout the day and never lacking of energy. I also love drinking down a quick 12 fluid ounces of Miracle Reds with water right after my workout and it tastes fantastic. It has micronutrients critical for recovery that needs to be put back into your body and makes you feel so darn healthy! Andre Early says: “I live my life just trying to be a better version of my previous self, in all aspects of life i.e. personal, work, my relationships (personal and acquaintances), health, love….and just life in general.”1) What supplements do you take? I take Macro Greens and Miracle Reds, Fish Oil, Whey Protein, and a daily vitamin.2) How do you make time to exercise? I simply “make” time, it’s part of my daily routine so I don’t miss work out days at all.3) Who or what has inspired you on your health and wellness journey? Myself! I have always been athletic but after college, I let myself go and blew up to almost 210 pounds. At 5’3”….that was crazy to say the least. I also use to get heartburns and reflux BAD. So bad, that I would feel like I was throwing up in my sleep, so I made a Doctors appt. Being I was in college and beyond the age to be on my parents insurance, I could not afford the prescriptions they were trying to put me on. Later that weekend (through fate I believe), there was an article in the Health section of the Sunday newspaper and the topic, “Heartburn and Acid Reflux”. It was there that I finally learned that medicine is just “covering” up the real issue at hand. The article basically gave 4 things to start and they were: Not eating heavy, spicy, or fried food past 7pm., Don’t smoke (which I don’t), exercise at least 3x a week and eat sensible. I started doing those 3 things and not only did I stop having heartburn and bad reflux, I started losing weight as well. I am now down 60 lbs, I weigh less than when I entered high school and have kept it off for over 14yrs now.4) Why do you take MacroLife Naturals products? I like the fact that is has all the necessary nutrition needed (vegetable and fruits) in each serving. It taste good, definitely compared to a lot of the others out there. And, I loved Sylvia’s story and how she created it for JR in the beginning. In this industry, a good story is always a good selling point.5) Which product do you use the most? I use both Macro Greens and Miracle Reds daily.6) How has your health changed while taking MacroLife products? I feel better health wise. I feel like my body is running more effective, which I can feel every day. The Greens and Reds have been incorporated into my daily routine for about 7 years strong now.
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Is Blue Light Affecting You?
With the average American now spending more than 10 hours a day staring at a screen, it’s no surprise that there’s been a lot of talk about the impact devices have on just about everything – from our brains and learning patterns to relationships and rising obesity rates.In a recent iPhone software update, Apple rolled out Screen Time settings, designed to give you a better idea of how much time you’re spending on certain apps – and on your phone in general. And smartphones are just the start of it. Many of us work on computers all day and then watch TV or surf the web on a tablet once we’re home at night. We stare at a screen for most of the day and don’t power down until it’s time for bed. Then we wake up and repeat!So what’s the main concern with all this screen time and how’s it affecting us? For starters, it has a lot to do with the blue light that’s being emitted from the screens. Blue light has a shorter wavelength than other types of light, which impacts the body in two significant ways.SleepArtificial light, like blue light, affects sleep patterns because it tricks the brain into thinking it’s daytime. Our bodies have a circadian rhythm, a 24-hour internal clock that sends signals to our brain telling us when it’s time to fall asleep or wake up. And when this natural rhythm is disrupted by blue light, it makes us more alert and awake. It also suppresses melatonin, a hormone that tells the body when to go to sleep. So you might have a harder time falling asleep and then a hard time falling into a deep sleep.VisionEver stare at a screen for so long that your eyes started to feel itchy and red? Thanks in part to artificial light, headaches and blurred vision are common side effects of looking at a device for extended periods of time. More recently, the threat of long-term retina damage has become a concern of extensive blue light activity.We don’t think twice about wearing sunglasses and avoid looking directly at the sun because we know exposure to ultraviolet rays is bad for us. However, after spending more than 10 hours a day looking at blue light, it’s possible that the effects will impact us later in life. For now, here are a few simple ways to protect yourself (your eyes will thank you!):Less screen time: One of the easiest ways to reduce the effects of blue light is by spending less time looking at a screen. While it might be difficult to do this if your job requires you to be on a computer, you can still be mindful of the devices you’re using outside work hours. We recommend powering down at least 2–3 hours before bed for more quality sleep!Filters for smartphones and tablets: Adjust the colors on your smartphone using one of the filters provided by iPhone, Android, and Galaxy. You can set the blue light filter to appear from sunset to sunrise or more specific hours. Plus, you can purchase screen shields for your tablets and smartphones to minimize the amount of blue light emitted.Computer glasses: Different from regular reading glasses, computer glasses are specifically designed to improve your eyesight when looking at a computer screen. By filtering out blue light and eliminating glare, computer glasses are worth trying, especially if you work on a computer for several hours throughout the day.While you might not feel the effects of blue light yet, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t proceed with caution. It’s important to evaluate how much time you spend in front of a screen each day, when you can cut back, and how to protect yourself from too much blue light.Brought to you by your Mother of SuperFoods Sylvia Ortiz, Founder MacroLife Naturals, Inc.
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Suns Out – Buns Out
Shorts and swimsuit season is here – eek! Before you get tempted to starve yourself, remember that looking good in skimpier clothing (and getting healthier) is not just about losing weight; the goal should be to drop body fat and maintain muscle. I asked my nutritionist, Lillian Padilla, graduate from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach with an emphasis on Chinese Nutritional Therapy and Ayurveda. Lilly helped Actor Greg Jbara from Blue Bloods lose 55 pounds. No one diet works for everyone, but here’s top tips on how to drop fat and get leaner: Cut inflammatory foods from your diet. These include dairy, gluten, multi-ingredient starches (bread, muffins), peanuts and wheat pasta. As Lilly taught me, these foods slow your metabolism and cause your body to hold on to fat. Increase your water intake. If you don’t drink enough, your body will hoard water and you will bloat. Water is the best diuretic: the more you drink, the more water you release. Water also helps your body mobilize and release fat. Lilly recommends drinking at least a half ounce of water per pound of body weight; up to one ounce per pound if you are physically active. (Coffee and tea are diuretics, so drink one cup of water per cup of water or tea.) To make it more palatable, I put citrus, berries, and mint leaves in my water. Protein helps – Make sure you’re getting enough protein. Protein helps keeps you full and supports lean muscle mass. Substitute one meal with a MacroMeal “Time Released Protein” All-in-One Protein + SuperFoods provides 25g of a Science Based Blend of Fast, Medium, and Slow digesting proteins. Eat a fat-burning dinner such as fish and veggies. Omega-3s, found in fish, mobilize fatty acids. Avoid sodium and starches at night, both of which hold water. For dessert, I suggest treating yourself with a something sweet like a half cup of strawberries or apple slices, which raises then lowers blood sugar to help you get a good night’s sleep. Get good sleep. In REM sleep (when you dream), your body releases Human Growth Hormone (HGH), which burns fat, promotes muscle growth, and repairs the immune system. By contrast, when you’re sleep deprived, your body suppresses HGH secretion. Aim for 7 – 9 hours a night, and avoid using devices right before bed. Avoid electromagnetic pollution shut down wireless and if your phone is bedside, put it on airplane mode. Diet plays a HUGE role in how you feel. Obesity is a known risk factor Overweight and Obese individuals bear additional Health risk like Diabetes and Heart Disease. America is the 3rd most obese county in the world. 42% Obesity!Good NEWS is even losing a small or moderate amount of weight can make a BIG difference. Plus adding Light Exercise 20min 3-4x a Week. It’s never been a Better time to Promote HEALTH. If you want to lose weight: Drink a glass of Macro Greens before breakfast, before lunch and after dinner. This will alkalize your body, feed it nutrients and shut down cravings. Now you can get back on track and stay on a healthy nutrition eating plan. IF you’re at a normal weight and for maintenance Drink a glass every day to fill in nutritional gaps and boost your immune system. Cheers!The Unhealthiest Health FoodsYou may think that you are eating better than most, but sometimes that food that comes in the package screaming “Organic”, “Non-Fat” or “Energy” can deceive you into thinking what you are consuming is good for you.According to a study made by the American Public Health Association, only three percent of Americans follow the steps that define a healthy lifestyle, even though 85 percent say they live healthy. Here are a few items that are not as healthy as you may think. Multi Grain Breads: Refined flours are stripped of their nutrients during processing and don’t have much nutritional value, and can cause an unhealthy spike in your blood sugar, which can lead to chronic illness and inflammation. Energy bars: A lot of energy bars are just like candy bars, full of saturated fats, sugar and hydrogenated oils into their ingredients. A true nutritional bar should only have 100 and 200 calories per bar and keeps the sugar and carbohydrates low under 18grams. Sports Drinks: A lot of what people are drinking here is more sugar and more empty calories. Drink water instead. Reduced-fat Peanut Butter: They usually make up for their fat loss with added sugar, which is not an improvement. Try peanut butters with no added sugar or sweeteners and buy organic. Fruit Smoothies: Smoothies can easily turn from healthy to gut busting. Some can come with so many loaded sugars that they can exceed 700 calories in an 8-ounce drink. The best smoothies are those with no more than 17 calories per ounce and no less than 4 grams of fiber per serving. Diet Soda: A 2013 study links an increased risk of developing diabetes with drinking one soda (diet or regular) a day. Other research suggests the artificial sweeteners used in diet sodas may actually cause weight gain. Try “Stevia” instead using a natural sweetener. Trail Mix: Most are loaded with candy-coated pieces, yogurt-covered raisins, sesame sticks and deep-fried banana chips. Before you know it, you’ve consumed almost 600 calories full of sugars, trans fat and refined carbohydrates. Granola: Most will give you a bowl full of trans fats and sugar. The trick is to pay attention to what’s in the ingredients of what you are eating, and not what’s on the label.Healthy Eating!Sylvia, your Mother of SuperFood™
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Are you Acidic or Alkaline?
Acidity in our bodies is on the rise as from all the current stressors that include environmental stressors, such as pesticide riddled crops, sugary drinks and electromagnetic energy that have become part of everyday life. Poor diets lead to unhealthy bodies; and once our bodies become unhealthy, a host of disease follows and leads us down a path full of pain and discomfort. If you learn to alkalize, change destructive habits, and make smart choices, you may just avoid the downfall.I have suffered from too much acidity since I was a teenager; which caused me to gain a tremendous amount of weight because an acid pH begets acid and causes cravings for sugars, fats, protein and salt. By learning how to regulate my body’s pH with some simple steps, I was able to radically shift the quality of my life and get my weight under control. The more I learn about natural medicine, the more I’m amazed by how much all the different systems of our body are effected by what we put in (food, drink, medicine) and put out (exercise, deep breathing, and meditation).My best friend who suffers from inflammation in her neck and shoulders recently realized she could control her bursitis symptoms by changing her diet and exercise routine. And there are reports that illustrate how diseases, such as MS, affect the nervous system and how diet can help alleviate symptoms.All of this, in so many ways, comes down to making sure your body is alkalized. Fish cannot live in aquarium water that is too acidic. Your body is much like an aquarium and where your 75 Trillion cells live and I refer to as your “internal eco aquarium”. Your body struggles to maintain a tight blood pH required for survival, the ideal pH is about 7.4 (exact range is 7.35 to 7.45). Most diseases cannot live in an alkaline environment.Did you know that there are foods that cause acidity and inflammation? Inflammation is the number one culprit behind diseases. It’s actually a way our body protects us from infection from foreign organisms, such as bacteria and viruses.But in this toxic chemical world of fake foods and poisons, can sometimes trigger an inflammatory response even when there aren’t any foreign invaders to fight off. Meaning you exist in permanent state of swelling. Left untreated, you can develop i.e. autoimmune diseases, cancer, heart disease, respiratory disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes and nephritis. Which is what occurs when the body’s normally protective immune system causes damage to its own tissues and causes cells to mutate.Some threats to our health are obvious, but sometimes the worst threats move slowly and silently. That’s the case with chronic low-level silent inflammation. Its quiet nature fails to alert of its destructive power and how chronic inflammation in your body can do serious damage.The foods we choose to eat—or not to eat affect inflammation. For instance, eating fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and omega-3 fatty acids foods found in Mediterranean diet have anti-inflammatory properties.Here are eight foods to avoid to keep inflammation and illness away. Trans Fats Sugar White Bread Cheeseburgers Alcohol Omega-6 Fatty Acids (nuts, seeds, eggs, and vegetable oils) should be reduced Milk Coffee What foods are most alkaline you ask? Dark green leafy vegetables are the most alkaline. The Alkaline pyramid chart below illustrates alkaline foods you should consider:You can measure the level of acidity in almost anything – water, soil, animals, plants, and people by measuring its pH. The pH measures the concentration of the hydrogen ion in the body and works with a scale that goes from 1 to 14. A pH below seven is considered acidic, a pH of seven is neutral, and anything above is considered basic or alkaline.You can test your body’s pH by doing a urine test or saliva test (using a pH test strip available in most health food stores or online). However, you should be aware that dehydration, infections, bacterial overgrowth, and other issues can affect your pH test. It’s safe to assume your body is too acidic if you are suffering from a chronic disease or symptoms such as: Constipation Confusion Salt cravings Rapid, shallow breath/ difficulty holding breath Frequent urination Swelling and bloating Poor brain function/ brain fog Poor sleep Tremors Acne Let’s Get Alkaline! Ideally a person should only have 20 percent acidic foods (e.g. meat, dairy products, refined carbohydrates , coffee and alcohol). The other 80 percent of your diet should be filled with alkaline or neutral foods. Here are some tips to getting rid of toxic acids and alkalize your body. Alkaline Water Greens and Sprouts: Make sure you eat a lot of leafy greens and sprouts, which will help alkalize. You can have them in salads or blend them up and take them as a juice Lemon juice and Water: This is one of my favorite ways to alkalize, although lemons are acidic on their own, when they go into the body, they metabolize and become alkaline. Mix juice of half a lemon in a cup of water and drink it first thing in the morning. It’s easy, helps hydrate the liver and shift your body into an alkaline state and you can feel the effects right away. “Green” drinks and “Green” foods: Foods that contain a high level of chlorophyll, such as spirulina, chlorella, barley grass juice and other sprouted grains are all extremely alkalizing. When your body is struggling to balance its pH on its own it often sacrifices calcium in the process. Therefore, taking such chlorophyll-rich foods promotes increased bone mass. Coconuts: are extremely alkalizing and they have been considered to be a miracle food for their many other benefits as well. You can enjoy a hydrating coconut juice, cook with coconut oil or coconut milk, or eat fresh coconut meat. Coconuts are a great source of energy, improve digestion, bowel functions, and food assimilation, support tissue repair, dissolve kidney stones, promote weight loss, boost your immune system and stamina, and do much more. Reduce Your Stress Levels:Stress messes with your body in intense ways. When you’re stressed out, the digestive system shuts down and toxic acids don’t get naturally eliminated. When there is a buildup of toxins in the body, your body stores these acids in your fat cells. So make sure you add yoga, meditation, deep breathing, thai chi, and any other stress-relieving activities to your daily routine. Exercise: Exercise gets the acidic waste by-products that get stored in your body tissues circulated, so you can better eliminate them. Make sure to get in several work-outs a week, or better yet, try to live a more active lifestyle that incorporates exercise in a natural way (i.e. walk or bike to work, take the stairs instead of the elevator). You get the picture :) Macro Greens® & Miracle Reds® are alkaline sources that provide bio-available vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and herbal blends that support liver, kidneys, adrenal system plus 18 Billion Probiotics to boost your immune system. This will make sure your body is set with reserves and will also offset any nutritional gaps. Drink a delicious glass daily Be Well – Sylvia Ortiz, is known as the Mother of SuperFoods, educator, and writer, passionate about preserving the natural beauty and wonder of our bodies, this planet, and the world. She is the founder of MacroLife Naturals, a superfood nutritional company committed to serving the health and wellness industry.
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