21st
The 411 on Tropical Strawberry Shakeology's New Plant-Based Protein Blend
We searched all over the world to find a vegan protein source with the right taste and texture worthy of the name Shakeology®, and we found it! The proprietary plant-based protein blend in Tropical Strawberry Shakeology is revolutionary and has a synergistic blend of non-GMO, organic proteins. These proteins come from brown rice and sacha inchi, along with chia, flax, quinoa, amaranth, and spirulina.
What makes the brown rice protein in our plant-based protein blend so special? First off, brown rice protein has an unprecedented reputation for being easily assimilated and digested in your body. This is good news if you or anyone you know has severe lactose allergies or a hard time digesting whey protein (derived from milk). The fact that Tropical Strawberry is made with easily digestible brown rice protein (plant-based) makes it a new and very attractive alternative! Another great perk is that brown rice protein contains a high amount of glutamine, an amino acid known to help balance blood sugar, curb cravings, stimulate the immune system, promote weight loss, and build muscle.
More tout-worthy details about our brown rice protein are that it's raw, sprouted, and bio-fermented.
Why is it important that our brown rice protein is raw?
Heating denatures the protein. (In other words, it diminishes the original properties.) Our brown rice is cold-processed, so the protein content and nutrients are preserved.
Why is it important that our brown rice protein is sprouted?
The sprouting process increases the nutritional value of the rice itself. Here's why: When a seed sprouts, it transitions from being dormant to active, releasing vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and essential fatty acids, making the sprouted version of a grain much more nutritious. Sprouting also starts the process of breaking down fats into fatty acids, and proteins into amino acids; this helps the nutrients to be more easily digested and absorbed into your system.
Why is it important that our brown rice protein is bio-fermented?
The bio-fermentation process further breaks down the grain, releasing enzymes and in turn making it easier for your body to absorb the amino acids and other nutrients.
And there you have it, a plant-based protein just as beneficial and potent as whey protein! To learn more interesting new facts about Tropical Strawberry Shakeology, stay tuned for the next blog post on coconut flower nectar or visit Shakeology.com.
Posted in Heather MacDonald, "Shakeology® Product News. The 411 on Tropical Strawberry Shakeology's New Plant-Based Protein Blend" Shakeology Blog
16th
Nutrition Results: Plan Ahead to Get Ahead
"I don't mind doing the workouts; in fact I really enjoy them. Where I drop the ball is when it comes to what I eat."—Jimmy Hays Nelson
Does this sound familiar? Maybe you recognize it because you've said it on more than one occasion. We've all done it before. Our alarm goes off early to remind us of our new commitment to work out to lose weight or get healthier. We pry ourselves out of bed and start moving in our half-awake, groggy state. But before we know it, we are in our groove mid-workout, the hour flies by, and we've started our day in a positive way. We feel great! We stroll into work with a bit of a strut, knowing this is going to be a good day because one big to-do is already checked off for the day. Then life happens. We put out one fire after another, chasing the day, and the first thing to get compromised is our food. The very thing we need to fuel us through our crazy day-to-day. Or maybe you made it the entire day avoiding the donuts and sodas in the break room, but you get home and justify a few poor choices in the evening because you "deserve it" after the day you've had.
If any of this resembles your day-to-day, don't beat yourself up. You aren't alone! Nutrition is usually the undoing of most people chasing a specific health goal, mostly because it takes all-day effort and focus, as opposed to the ONE hour for your workout. So in this busy society where more and more of our time is in demand, how do we solve this nutrition dilemma?
I want to share a few tips that played a huge role in me becoming a master of my nutrition in the midst of losing 100 pounds.
Prep Time
Most of us have one day a week that we have some extra down time. I am not asking you to give up that down time. Just use part of it to ensure the rest of your week is successful.
Sunday is my prep day. So while I'm doing laundry, watching football, or whatever takes up my leisure time, I prep my food for the week. Take a 30-minute trip to the grocery store. Purchase all your food for the week. For me, that is a couple family packs of chicken breasts, 8 to 10 sweet potatoes, avocados, spinach, egg whites, etc. I come home, preheat the oven to 400 degrees and bake everything that needs to be cooked at once. Usually I can put it all in the oven together, set the timer for 45 to 50 minutes and forget about it while I go back to my leisure activity of choice. When everything is cooked, you can put it all in big plastic containers or portion it out in sandwich bags, and you've set yourself up for a successful grab-and-go food system for the week.
Shakeology®
How could I have a good post about food choices, without mentioning The Healthiest Meal of the Day®? For most people, no matter how hard you try, or how disciplined you think you are, we all have holes in our nutrition. Phytonutrients, vitamins, minerals, etc.—all the things our bodies need to function without breaking down can be challenging to get in on a daily basis. Trust me, I used to try. I had a cabinet of pills and powders that would consume my day. Most busy people just don't have the time to mess with a potential headache like that. Thank heaven for my Shakeology. It took the guesswork out of my supplementation. It's fast, easy, and effective. No time for breakfast? Did you miss lunch because of endless meetings at work? Break open a packet, shake it up, and enjoy. Now instead of making an excuse to have your worst meal of the day, you corrected that with your best meal of the day!
Just like with any change in life, the first few times you utilize these tips, it may seem a little strange or foreign. But you will be amazed; taking that extra step to plan ahead will yield immediate results, making it easier to plan ahead the second time because you want to continue seeing those results! And before you know it, you have established a new habit, a new lifestyle that doesn't even seem unusual or like extra work. It's now just part of your daily life—a healthier, more energetic, results-filled life!
Stay healthy, friends!
Jimmy Hays Nelson
Lost 100 lbs. and is an INSANITY® cast member
Posted in Jimmy Hays Nelson, "Nutrition Results. Plan Ahead to Get Ahead." Shakeology Blog
3rd
9 Reasons to Think Pink This
Valentine's Day
Tropical Strawberry Shakeology®—just the sound of it makes you want to enjoy a tall glass on a sandy beach. But there's so much more to it than just an enticing name. What's in it? What's the serving size? When can I get some?
These and other questions will be poppin' up left and right when Tropical launches on February 14th. But have no fear. We put together 9 sips of brilliance you can use to become an expert.
1) Take a walk on the light side. Tropical Strawberry Shakeology is a new, light, refreshing flavor featuring strawberry, banana, pineapple, papaya, and coconut. And it's easy to customize with any of your favorite additions.
2) Savor the new flavor. In a coco-nutshell, Tropical has a taste and texture so delicious and smooth, you won't believe it's vegan!
3) No animals allowed. Tropical is a completely plant-based formula with NO animal products. This makes it very easily digested and assimilated by your body.
4) Blinding you with science. Our proprietary vegan protein blend contains all 9 essential amino acids. It also contains a protein blend featuring raw, sprouted, fermented brown rice protein, along with sacha inchi, chia, flax, quinoa, amaranth, and spirulina.
5) Superfoods to the rescue. Tropical also includes NEW superfoods, including coconut flower nectar, luo han huo, Himalayan salt, and konjac root. All of the key nutrients come from natural whole foods. There are no added vitamin or mineral isolates and no fortification.
6) Get your mac on this Valentine's Day. Maca, that is. Just like Chocolate and Greenberry, Tropical also contains maca powder (root), which carries strong libido-enhancing properties. Maca also helps increase stamina and energy levels, calms the nerves, and contributes to overall well being.
7) Try Tropical on for size. This delicious new Shakeology flavor is available in both 30-day bag and single-serve packettes. What's more, you'll also find it available in Challenge Packs by the end of this month, too!
8) Sweets for my sweet. Want a bunch of great new ways to enhance your shakes? How about a new recipe calendar with 30 fresh new recipes? Mmmm. View the recipe calendar.
9) Weight no longer. Eager to try Tropical right away? Can't say we blame you. You can switch your orders on February 14th, so delicious Tropical Strawberry Shakeology will arrive to your door in your next shipment. Call customer service on or after Valentine's Day at 1 (800) 935-1173.
Posted in Heather MacDonald , "Shakeology® Product News: 9 Reasons to Think Pink This
Valentine's Day" Shakeology Blog
31st
Shakeology® was featured in Bloomberg Businessweek! "The Adventures of Superfood Man"
Bloomberg Businessweek reporter Peter Heller travels to Malibu, CA, to get the inside scoop on exactly what Shakeology is, and to learn more about the fascinating life of Darin Olien—who he deems may be "the most aggressive hunter of superfoods on the planet."
Click here to learn more about the health-filled, beach lifestyle of Darin Olien as a pioneer of nutrition, the details of and reasons behind Shakeology's success in the shake industry, plus how superfood-testing specialists are saying Shakeology has almost every superfood known to the herbal-loving world.
Read the full article here: The Adventures of Superfood Man
Posted in Heather MacDonald , "Shakeology® in the Press: Shakeology® was featured in Bloomberg Businessweek! "The Adventures of Superfood Man"" Shakeology Blog
26th
Mary C. Lost 36 lbs. with Shakeology® and Won $1,000 in the Beachbody Challenge™
"Going on 70 and being able to perform the Shakeology workouts is my greatest achievement, along with keeping up with my twin grandchildren and all their activities!"
What Mary C. won: Mary C. won $1,000 just for drinking Shakeology, and went from size 14 to size 6! Now she has a chance to win $25,000 as a Beachbody Challenge winner at Summit 2012!
Tell us about your life before you started the program. How did you feel about yourself and your body? As a caretaker for my aunt and then babysitting for twin grandchildren, I had very little time for myself. I allowed myself to put on more and more weight, and overall felt very tired and exhausted at the end of the day—I wasn't even thinking about the terrible foods I was eating.
What inspired you to change your life and begin your transformation journey? My son lost over 50 lbs. with P90X® and Shakeology. My daughter-in-law also started with Slim in 6® and Shakeology, lost weight, and really toned up. So I wanted in on that action!
Why did you choose the particular program? Shakeology is a great way to start when you are questioning your fitness capabilities. P90X looked too extreme to this grandmother, and even Slim in 6 was too much. So I found out that Shakeology included some workouts, and my thought was to clean up my nutrition and introduce workout programs that I could handle.
What in particular did you like about the program you chose? There really isn't an easier way to start losing weight and eating healthier then by using Shakeology as a meal replacement once a day. The workout programs included allowed me to start at my level, and once I completed the 30 DVD, I then moved up to the 50 DVD. I really love those programs and love Shakeology even more.
Tell us about the greatest challenge you faced. How did you overcome that challenge? I fractured my foot and had to wear a protective foot-boot, which really hampered my physical activity. It was at that time that I started Shakeology and realized that I could in fact start to lose weigh even thought my physical activity was not where I wanted it.
Describe the results you achieved with your Beachbody® program. What achievements are you proud of? I lost over 35 lbs. with Shakeology and I love it! I'm also ready now to come off my HBP and cholesterol medication! And I'm now fitting into dress sizes that I haven't been able to since the '80s! Going on 70 and being able to perform the workouts is my greatest achievement, along with keeping up with my twin grandchildren and all their activities. I used to sit back and watch them as they rode the rides at our local amusement park. But now I run around the park with them, participating in all rides and activities!
How did Shakeology support your transformation? What are the biggest benefits? Shakeology was the key to my transformation success. Not only did it simplify my nutrition, but I really, truly looked forward to it each day. I don't have to worry about taking additional supplements, and I'm guaranteed to have more than enough energy for the day. Some would say I have too much energy!
Submit your Shakeology story for a chance to win up to $25,000 in the Beachbody Challenge like Mary! Click here for more details.
Posted in Heather MacDonald , "Inspiring Stories: Mary C. Lost 36 lbs. with Shakeology® and Won $1,000 in the Beachbody Challenge™" Shakeology Blog
24th
Expert Tips and Advice: 10 Ways Water Helps You to Lose Weight
1. Water suppresses your appetite. People who drink more water feel hungry less often, as water makes a good appetite suppressant.
2. Water helps to reduce cholesterol. Water has a drastic impact on cholesterol and should help you reduce the levels in your body; it also can lead to weight loss.
3. Water helps to tone muscles. If your muscles are dehydrated, you won't see a lot of toning. Up your intake of water and you'll see a difference, fast!
4. Water is necessary for proper digestion. Your digestive system requires a certain amount of water a day to function, and if you fall short of this, it can make you feel bloated and tired. We recommend 9 glasses of water a day.
5. Water helps liver function. The liver metabolizes fat, which is very important when you are trying to lose weight. However, it requires a lot of water to do this successfully, and if your liver doesn't have enough, it will store the fat.
6. Water helps soothe digestive problems. If you are suffering from digestive troubles, try drinking a few glasses of water. This should help jump-start your system again, as a lack of water can cause the entire process to stop.
7. The right amount of water causes the body to stop retaining water. If you usually don't drink enough, your body will have retained water to make up for it. This water retention can add pounds to your weight, making you feel very bloated.
8. Water stops you confusing hunger and thirst. It can be very easy to think you are hungry when in fact you are just thirsty.
9. Water moisturizes the skin and makes it more radiant and supple. Supermodels are known to drink about 68 ounces of water per day to make sure their skin is hydrated and looks its best.
10. Water washes the toxins out of the body. Water washes out the toxins, making your body cleaner and healthier.
Experts recommend drinking 68 ounces of water a day—that's about 8 glasses of water, which you should easily be able to fit into your day. We recommend making your shake with about 2 cups of water, and you'll not only have a better chance at meeting your water requirement for the day, but it'll taste good too!
Posted in Heather MacDonald , "Expert Tips and Advice: 10 Ways Water Helps You to Lose Weight" Shakeology Blog
20th
INGREDIENT SPOTLIGHT: YACON ROOT
In keeping with our previous theme of "rooting" out what sets Shakeology® apart from the competition, today's ingredient spotlight focuses on the uniquely sweet and nutritious yacon root!
The country of Peru is not only our source for the maca root found in Shakeology (see previous Ingredient Spotlight); it's also where we get another of our superfoods—yacon! In case you didn't know, Peru is more than 1,000 miles long and 500 miles across at its widest point. The country has a variety of microclimates and sudden changes in geography, hence many diverse agricultural opportunities.
WHAT IS YACON?
The yacon is a perennial plant traditionally grown in the Northern and Central Andes from Ecuador to Argentina. It is known for its crisp, sweet-tasting, tuberous roots. Its texture and flavor are very similar to jicama, except that yacon has slightly sweeter undertones, attributed to a sweet substance called inulin. Until as late as the early 2000s, yacon was hardly known outside of its limited native range, and was not available in urban markets. However, press reports of its use in Japan for its low-glycemic properties made the crop more widely known in Lima and other Peruvian cities. And the word has continued to spread; we are now seeing product offerings such as yacon syrup, juices, jams, and teas. All products are popular among diabetics and those trying to manage their weight.
Fun fact: Another name for the yacon is the "Peruvian Ground Apple."
KEY BENEFITS: WEIGHT LOSS AND DIGESTION
These edible tubers are composed primarily of water and fructooligosaccharides, an indigestible natural sweetener. Fructooligosaccharides (or FOS) taste sweet, but break down slowly, passing through the digestive tract unmetabolized, and thus have very low caloric value. As an additional nutrition bonus, these FOS have a prebiotic effect, meaning that they are used by "friendly" bacteria (probiotics) that favor colon health and digestion. Probiotics are the good, healthy bacteria strains that live in your intestines, help to digest food, and help keep you "regular." These healthy bacteria need special nutrients called prebiotics to grow and thrive. Yacon is known to contribute to better digestion, colon health, and healthy immune function. It's a powerful antioxidant, and studies show that yacon may help support ideal blood sugar levels and healthy cardiovascular function. An Argentine study following daily intake of yacon syrup by women with high blood cholesterol levels over a 120 day period showed a significant decrease in body weight, waist circumference, and body mass index among those tested. The consumption of yacon syrup was shown to increase frequency of elimination and satiety sensation.
HOW OUR YACON IS SOURCED
The pure ingredient used in Shakeology is found near Huanuco, a mountain town known for the most extraordinary yacon. Huanuco is located in an area called Canchacalla at about 8,000 feet in the Andes. The farmers we work with are some of the more progressive growers in the area, who consistently do investigation into the best varieties. They work with academic experts who regularly run "variety trials" to select the best variety with the highest content of FOS. These farmers also do a lot of investigation into the best organic practices including using microorganisms and beneficial bacteria to stimulate the plants' growth and disease resistance, so that pesticides are unnecessary. Our farmers use only the root portion of the yacon plant, and the rest of the green material is tilled back into the ground as green compost. This increases crop yields, which is also a sign of good quality.
THE BOTTOM LINE: DOLLARS AND (COMMON) SENSE
So let's break it down in terms of cost to you:
- Yacon powder (8 oz.): $12
- Dried Yacon slices (4-oz. bag): $9
- Yacon tea (30 servings): $10
- Jar of yacon syrup (9 oz.): $13
Sure, that's not a lot to spend, but consider how unlikely you are to know how that yacon was sourced or how potent it is. If you were to separately attempt to purchase Shakeology's 70+ healthy ingredients from whole food sources from around the world (including antioxidants, phytonutrients, adaptogen herbs, prebiotics, digestive enzymes, vitamins, and minerals) and match the benefits and nutritional content of Shakeology, you would easily spend over $300 every month—that's two and half times the cost of Shakeology, the Healthiest Meal of the Day®.
There are fewer published studies on the health benefits of yacon than on maca root, due to its more recent "discovery" and commercialization. Here are a few highlights:*
- Numerous studies pinpoint yacon as a prebiotic (also known as soluble fiber) that can stimulate the growth and/or activity of the body's natural defenses in the digestive system. Read more here.
- Yacon syrup has been shown to have beneficial effects on obesity and insulin resistance in humans. Read more here.
- A study published in the European Journal of Nutrition, conducted by the Institute of Organic Chemistry, suggested that four different components of yacon each provide their own "potent antioxidant activity" and have been shown to reduce blood glucose levels in rats. Read more here.
*For general information and education purposes only.
All trademarks, products, and service names are the property of their respective owners.
Posted in Nancy Marcello , "Ingredient Spotlight: Yacon Root" Shakeology Blog
16th
Shakeology® as a Post-Workout Supplement
Whether you're trotting up the stairs to your apartment after a five-mile jog or pounding out that last set of curls, there is nothing like that post-workout feeling. You've busted your tail and now it's time to relax.
Or is it? A little couch time might seem in order, but that doesn't mean the work is done. After a hard workout, your body becomes super receptive to nutrients, so proper eating in the hour after is crucial. Don't slack off now. Hit the kitchen for your Shakeology recovery shake within the first 10 minutes of wrapping up, and allow 30 to 45 minutes for it to absorb before eating anything else!
When Nietzsche said, "That which doesn't kill us makes us stronger," he could have been talking about a good workout. First of all, exercise burns through your blood sugar as well as your glycogen, your body's back-up sugar supply. Meanwhile, it drains your electrolytes and fluids and causes micro-trauma to your muscles. That last one typically happens more often with weight training, but just about any intense exercise breaks down (and subsequently builds) muscle to some degree. Just look at a swimmer's shoulders or a jogger's legs if you doubt this.
When it comes to a serious workout, one of the many reasons trainers like P90X's Tony Horton and RevAbs' Brett Hoebel recommend drinking Shakeology is because your body is in a state of depletion, so many people make the mistake of eating too many calories afterward. How many calories you should consume post-workout depends on your size and how hard you blasted it, but the general range is 100 to 250 calories post-workout. At 140 to 150 calories, Shakeology fills this requirement perfectly, and if you need more calories we recommend adding a banana or some nut butter for extra protein.
Protein is critical after a tough workout because it works to repair your muscles. This is due to the fact that protein is comprised of amino acids, which serve as building blocks for muscle. If you can get some protein in your body fast, it can jump-start the recovery process. With 16 to 18 grams of quality protein in each serving, Shakeology works great as a muscle building tool and is absorbed perfectly after a work-out because your body in its depleted state is extra receptive to the nutrients.
The next mode of action is replenishing your blood sugar. In order to do this you need carbs. There are 17 grams of carbs in each serving of Shakeology, which when taken with protein post-workout, can both replenish your body and keep you satisfied, so you don't overeat or suffer through that "I'm starving" feeling, which can lead to unhealthy meal choices.
The final two pieces of the recovery puzzle are electrolytes (specifically potassium, sodium, magnesium, and chloride) and water, all of which you lose when you sweat. The magnesium, sodium, vitamins, minerals, and enzymes in Shakeology will boost your electrolytes, and if you want to get even more, make your shake with coconut water. As for rehydrating, I hear there's a new thing out there called "water." You might want to research it. :)
Stay healthy, friends.
Heather and Denis
Posted in Heather MacDonald and Denis Faye , "Shakeology® as a Post-Workout Supplement" Shakeology Blog
2nd
Katie F. Lost Weight with Shakeology® & P90X® and Won $1,000 in September in the Beachbody Challenge™
Age: 33 Primary Program: P90X Supplement: Shakeology |
| Katie's Stats | ||
| Before | AFTER | |
| Weight: Waist: Body Fat % | 175 lbs. 36 in. 28.7 | 146 lbs. 30.5 in. 24 |
Katie F.
Lost 29 lbs. and 6 inches off her waist!
"There aren't enough characters allowed to describe how much Shakeology has supported me."
Tell us about your life before you started the program. How did you feel about yourself and your body? There is only one word to describe how I felt about the way I looked and the lack of energy I had: sad. My life before P90X was a bit crazy and hectic. I was running a day care in my home and had a very young child. I would head to McDonald's® or Taco Bell® as often as I could while I was out and on the run (it was just the easy thing to do), and I would get the largest possible mocha from Starbucks® whenever I had the chance. The word "exercise" had never been in my vocabulary. I had asthma as a child, so I wasn't really fond of exercise back then and I was happy with the way I looked. Then I got pregnant with twins. I gained 70 pounds with my son and "most" of it came off. However, I gained over 90 pounds with my twins, and that weight DIDN'T come off. They were 9 months old, and I still looked (and felt) like I was pregnant with them. I was tired all the time and had no energy. I knew that I needed to add a few new words to my vocabulary: "exercise" and "eat right."
What inspired you to change your life and begin your transformation journey? The word "sad" stayed with me every time I looked in the mirror. I couldn't believe just how far I had let myself go. I knew I needed to make a change, and I knew that change had to be BIG. My girls were at a point where they were just starting to be a bit more mobile, and my son was two (enough said)! I needed the energy to keep up with them every day. I also specifically remember how my brother told me years before (as I was drinking my very large mocha from Starbucks) that it would "catch up with me." Well, it (and all the "easy" trips to McDonald's and Taco Bell) certainly did. I knew they weren't healthy for me. I knew I was spending a ton of money each year, but again, it was "easy." But it did catch up with me, and I needed a change. I needed to drop some weight and change my eating habits for good.
Describe the results you achieved with your Beachbody® program. What achievements are you proud of?
I am still in shock when I look back at my "before" pictures . . . Was that really me? I am ecstatic at what P90X has done for me. I can fit in to a size 8 pant again. (I haven't been able to say that for a long time.) The energy I have each day is just amazing. I don't feel "tired" after running after the kids. I lost just under 30 pounds, completely changed my eating habits, and will NEVER go back. As far as achievements are concerned, I will never forget the day when I was able to complete the Dreya Roll. That one move in the program had been haunting me for a while. I didn't have the strength to do it. I kept Pressing Play and kept trying until one day I could do it! To be able to say that I completed all 90 days of P90X is a great feeling to have. The fact that it has completely changed my life is immeasurable.
How did Shakeology support your transformation? What are the biggest benefits? There are not enough characters allowed to describe how much Shakeology has supported me. :) Remember my "McDonalds, Taco Bell, Starbucks" comments earlier? Yeah, those didn't even enter my mind after the first week of being on Shakeology. I remember my Coach introducing it to me; she said it was a meal replacement shake that helped get rid of cravings, lose weight, and gain energy. I was all for that, and I needed to be sure to get all the proper nutrition while completing P90X. The first thing I remember when I first tried it was the taste. I had tried meal replacement shakes before and did not like the taste of them at all. I remember them having a very bad aftertaste as well. The fact that I could have a chocolate shake with peanut butter every day—and it was GOOD for me—was awesome. I definitely felt a difference in my energy level my first week, and I was definitely not having any cravings for anymore of the "bad" stuff too. Shakeology keeps me healthy and energized.
Sumbit your Shakeology story for a chance to win up to $25,000 in the Beachbody Challenge like Katie! Click here for more details.
All trademarks, products, and service names are the property of their respective owners.
Posted in Heather MacDonald , "Katie F. Lost Weight with Shakeology" Shakeology Blog
28th
5 Ways to Fight Fattening Holiday Habits
Ah, the holidays. Or as we those of us who are too fond of cookies and traditional big meals say, AHHHHHH! The holidays!
No one decides to gain 5 to 15 pounds between November and January. But when family recipes, busy schedules, and friendly get-togethers put fat-filled temptations in your face at every turn, who can resist?
You can, with satisfying, delicious Shakeology®! It's your super power, giving you the strength to pass up the fluffiest mashed potatoes and the richest pumpkin pie. And that's not the only way Shakeology makes your holidays happier. Here are 5 ways the Healthiest Meal of the Day® helps you stay on track during the most wonderful time of the year:
- Shakeology helps curb cravings so you won't overeat. Want to ease up on the eggnog and back off the brownies? Drink Shakeology before a holiday event. The whey protein isolate in each creamy glass keeps your blood sugar steady and crushes junk food cravings. That buffet table can't hurt you now—go ahead and stroll past it. You'll find that resisting temptation will be easier and feels way more awesome than any candied yam tastes.
- Shakeology boosts your energy just when you need it. There are never enough hours in the day, but somehow time seems even scarcer in November and December. If you're like me, you've got to run around from sunup to bedtime to get everything done. Thankfully, the vitamins, minerals, and protein in Shakeology give you the stamina to keep going. Digestive enzymes in every serving speed up the body's absorption of nutrients too, so you can feel the benefits faster. And use any extra energy to prepare a healthy meal instead of grabbing the nearest holiday cheese tray.
- Guard against illness. There's something magical in the air—something viral too: cold and flu germs making the rounds in the shopping malls and holiday parties. Happily, Shakeology provides a powerful cocktail of natural ingredients to help support immune system function: super-greens, super-fruits, adaptagen herbs, pre- and probiotics, and digestive enzymes. I'm not saying Shakeology will make you completely impervious to the flu bug, but it could support your immune system when you share hugs with sniffly loved ones. Come to think of it, maybe THEY could use some Shakeology.
- Take the stress out of the season. Let's face it: the most wonderful time of the year comes with expectations that can cause anxiety. Shakeology's got your antidote, with protein and amino acids to promote alertness, and adaptogen herbs that can reduce feelings of stress and fatigue. So relax with a glass of Shakeology. It's a healthier way to handle stress than over-indulging in holiday spirits and/or pecan pie.
- Replace a fattening holiday tradition with a healthy one. Instead of piling on the calories with Christmas pudding, try Chocolate Shakelogy Pudding:
Ingredients:
1 scoop Chocolate Shakeology, 1 ripe avocado, 1 large banana, 1 cup almond milk, 1 tsp. lemonPreparation:
Mix all ingredients in blender until smooth. Pour into 4 small individual dishes. Refrigerate for an hour. If the pudding ends up too thick, simply add a bit more almond milk. Serves 1. Optional: Garnish with some chopped pecans, chia seeds or walnuts.Treat yourself right with this lean alternative to traditional eggnog, Berry Yule Log:
Ingredients:
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. almond extract
1/2 cup pitted black cherries
1 cup vanilla almond milk
1 scoop Greenberry ShakeologyPreparation:
Mix together in blender until smooth, serve chilled.
"This is the first year I haven't completely caved when it comes to all of the holiday treats . . . Thanks, Shakeology!"—Valynne B., Portland, OR
"Shakeology is awesome! I use it for all my desserts, and I can just walk away from all the goodies around the holidays."—Scott R., Youngstown, OH
"Drinking Shakeology pre-Christmas is helping keep all the goodies at bay :) Thanks for an amazing, craving-stifling product!"—Melanie W.
For a whole month of delicious Shakeology Holiday-themed recipes, click here.
Starting November 29th, you can win FREE Shakeology and fitness programs in the Shakeology Holiday Dessert Recipe Contest. Visit the Shakeology Facebook® page to enter!
All trademarks, products, and service names are the property of their respective owners.
Posted in Nancy Marcello , "Fight Fattening Holiday Habits" Shakeology Blog
19th
INGREDIENT SPOTLIGHT: MACA ROOT
In this newly-launched blog, we will be featuring regular, detailed spotlights on the ingredients that qualify Shakeology® as the Healthiest Meal of the Day®. By now, hopefully you are "in the know" about this incredible, nutrient-dense shake comprised of some of the most amazing, healthy, and potent superfoods on the planet. But which one led Shakeology co-creator Darin Olien and his team to altitudes of 13,000 feet in the Andes region of Junin, Peru, in search of the only crop that can grow and flourish up there? Well, in our first "Ingredient Spotlight," we'll be getting to the "root" of that issue . . . maca root, that is!
Maca has been used in indigenous South American societies as a source of nourishment and healing for thousands of years. Its other known names include: Lepidium meyenii, maca-maca, maino, ayak chichira, and ayak willku. A distant relative of radishes and turnips, maca grows in a variety of colors ranging from purple to golden. For this crop, there is only one season or yield per year. Each variety offers its own strengths: cream-colored means sweeter, while darker variations generally provide a better boost of energy. Maca has a strong, pungent aroma and is traditionally grown at altitudes of approximately 8,000 to 14,500 feet. For Shakeology, we use a blend of these roots, grown and sourced by local Andean farmers in a sustainable manner, which helps not only the land to thrive but the farmers, their families, and the communities in the process!
(Fun fact: The Spaniards valued maca so much, they made it a form of currency. So, when Peru was a Spanish colony, you could pay your taxes with it!)
BENEFITS & SCIENCE
Maca is widely known to promote endurance, strength, stamina, and potency. In fact, ancient Peruvian women would give maca to their men before they went off to battle. It contains high amounts of protein and has been known to energize the central nervous system. For centuries, maca root has been used to combat stress and fatigue, increase stamina, and yes, even boost libido! Maca is a nutrient-dense whole food packed with vitamins, plant sterols, dietary fiber, essential fatty acids, minerals (including calcium, magnesium, and iron), as well as 19 of the 22 essential amino acids. An adaptogen herb, it also may help support a healthy immune system. (Studies have identified four alkaloids present in maca known to nourish the endocrine system.) Ah . . . and let's not forget the extra-special benefit that is attributed to maca; it's an aphrodisiac! The root is sometimes referred to as "Nature's Viagra®." Lest you doubt the credibility of the aphrodisiac claim, it is in fact rooted in science. Maca root naturally contains high amounts of p-methoxybenzyl isothiacyanate, which studies show does have a positive effect on the libido. But hey, we're just citing the known science . . . You be the judge!
HOW OUR MACA IS "PROCESSED"
We're very proud to say there is very little "processing" at all. Because maca grows best at high altitudes, it's easy for it to be organic. There are few pests that naturally occur at such high altitudes. Once harvested by the local farmers, the maca roots are dried, pulverized by hand into a powder, and go into the final product just like that. There are very few steps from field to finished product, and that's the way we like it. This ensures the natural nutrient profiles stay in place, keeping it as potent as it can be. Whatever it takes for Shakeology, Darin and team will climb the highest mountain to ensure that you get the best quality ingredients available.
THE BOTTOM LINE: DOLLARS AND (COMMON) SENSE
So let's break it down in terms of cost to you. A bag of maca powder at a nutrition store alone would cost you between $15 and $30. And it's highly unlikely you'll be privy to the knowledge of how that bag of maca was sourced, at what altitude it was grown, or how potent it is. If you were to separately attempt to purchase Shakeology's 70+ healthy ingredients from whole food sources from around the world (including anti-oxidants, phytonutrients, adaptogen herbs, prebiotics, digestive enzymes, vitamins, and minerals) and match the benefits and nutritional content of Shakeology, you would easily spend over $300 every month—that's two and half times the cost of Shakeology!
To see photos and learn more about how the maca for Shakeology is sourced, check out Shakeology: Book Two, now available to download at Shakeology.com.
There are at least 67 published studies on maca root that have been conducted over the past 12 years, ranging from effects on mice to randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical studies on humans. Here are a few highlights:
- A review of major studies by Gonzalez at the Universidad Peruana in Lima, Peru, cites: "Evidence from experimental studies indicates effects of maca on nutrition, fertility, memory, and mood. Randomized clinical trials have shown that maca has favorable effects on energy and mood, may decrease anxiety and improve sexual desire. Maca has also been shown to improve sperm production, sperm motility, and semen volume." Read more here.
- You can also follow the links below to read more results of published double-blind studies on maca's effect on improving sexual function and menopausal symptoms:
"Maca . . . Pure energy source. Grown in nature and delivered in Shakeology."—Darin Olien
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Posted in Nancy Marcello , "Ingredient Spotlight: Maca Root" Shakeology Blog
16th
WELCOME!
Ready, set start living better with the Shakeology Blog! This will be your one-stop-shop for all Shakeology news, recipes, inspiring stories, exotic ingredient findings, insider looks into international Shakeology adventures and so much more!
Here at Beachbody we are committed to living healthy, balanced lifestyles and Shakeology is a big part of our success. In fact, we love Shakeology so much that on a daily average our headquarters goes through 12 bags - That's a lot of shakin'!
The great part about having a big group of people living and breathing the Shakeology lifestyle is learning about the unique ways in which each and every person uses Shakeology and how it benefits them individually. After countless stories like "Shakeology helped me get my fastest marathon time ever this weekend" or "I drank 4 cups of coffee a day and Shakeology helped me stop drinking it entirely" and "Do you know about PB2? There's a cheaper version called peanut flour…tastes the same!" we figured we were on to something. These shake-junkies have some serious insider knowledge and somebody's got to share it! And hence, the 'Shakeology Blog' was born.
With a product like this it's so exciting because as a 2 year old going on 3, Shakeology is still coming into its own and we are learning all the benefits and unique things you can do with Shakeology…and that Shakeology can do for you! This blog will be a venue to share the abundance of findings we already know to be true, share brand new tips, as well as educate you on exactly what this miracle shake does for your body and how.
From the foodies at Beachbody telling you the perfect fruit to add to your shake at the peak of the season, to a new recipe like 'Chocolate Shakeology Figgy Pudding' that you swear can't be so good and still be healthy for you, this blog will be all about fun and getting to know the shake we all know and love better! So cheers to good health and may the shake adventure begin!
Posted in Heather MacDonald, "Welcome" Shakeology Blog
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