Don Colbert's Blog, page 10

New Study Reveals: Hidden Risks of Pesticides in Popular Fruits and How to Avoid Them

As a healthcare professional committed to promoting holistic health and well-being, I find it increasingly important to discuss the implications of pesticide exposure from non-organic produce. Recent findings from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and investigations by Consumer Reports have shed light on the concerning levels of pesticides found in both domestic and imported fruits and vegetables, raising substantial concerns about their impact on human health, particularly hormone systems and potential developmental issues in children.

The EWG’s 2024 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce highlights that a staggering 75 percent of all conventional fresh produce sampled contains residues of potentially harmful pesticides. More alarming, items on their Dirty Dozen list—which identifies the 12 non-organic fruits and vegetables with the most pesticides—show that 95 percent of samples harbor pesticide residues. Among the most frequently detected are fungicides such as fludioxonil, pyraclostrobin, boscalid, and pyrimethanil, with some showing properties that may disrupt the endocrine system and harm the male reproductive system.

Furthermore, Consumer Reports’ recent analysis echoes these findings, indicating high levels of pesticide contamination in commonly consumed fruits and vegetables, with a significant portion originating from imports. The report highlights that certain produce, like strawberries and green beans, even when labeled organic, still show pesticide levels due to widespread contamination and issues in pesticide regulation enforcement.

Consuming too many pesticides in food can lead to a variety of health problems.Neurological Effects: Pesticides have been linked to neurological problems due to their potential to act as neurotoxins. Chronic exposure can impair cognitive function, cause memory deficits, and increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s disease. A study by Freire and Koifman in 2012 found that exposure to pesticides in agricultural settings significantly increases the risk of Parkinson’s disease in individuals.Cancer: Various pesticides have been classified as probable carcinogens. Long-term exposure to these chemicals can increase the risk of cancers such as lymphoma, leukemia, and prostate cancer. A significant study by Alavanja et al. in 2013 suggests that high levels of exposure to certain pesticides may correlate with increased risks of multiple types of cancer in agricultural workers.Hormonal Disruption: Pesticides can interfere with hormone function, leading to reprodductive and developmental problems. These chemicals can mimic or block hormones, disrupting the body’s normal hormone functions, which may lead to issues such as infertility, birth defects, and developmental delays in children. Research published by Mostafalou and Abdollahi in 2013 highlights the endocrine-disrupting potential of several widely used pesticides and their implications for human health.

The implications of these findings are profound, especially for vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women. Fungicides and other pesticides are linked to various health issues, including hormonal disruptions and developmental problems in children. For instance, studies have shown that fludioxonil can act like estrogen and increase the proliferation of breast cancer cells. Similarly, pyrimethanil has been linked to thyroid disruption and may block androgen receptors in the body, posing risks to thyroid health and reproductive functions.

The dangers of pesticides extend beyond individual health concerns. The USDA’s tests, which still found traces of 254 different pesticides in fruits and vegetables after washing and peeling, suggest that the current methods of reducing pesticide exposure are insufficient. The presence of multiple pesticide residues can lead to compound effects that are not yet fully understood, potentially making them more harmful than the sum of their individual parts.

Three Effective Ways to Reduce Pesticide Residues on Your Fruits and Vegetables

To combat these risks, it is crucial to adopt strategies that minimize exposure to pesticides, especially for those most at risk. While washing and scrubbing produce under running water can reduce pesticide levels, no method entirely removes all residues. Thus, opting for organic produce becomes a safer choice. Organic farming not only limits the use of synthetic pesticides but also supports sustainable agricultural practices that benefit the environment.

Proper Washing Techniques: Wash strawberries and other produce under cold running water rather than warm or hot, as higher temperatures can cause some fruits and vegetables to absorb contaminants present in the water. Cold water is sufficient to remove surface dirt and some residues. Scrubbing firm produce with a brush and soaking delicate fruits like strawberries in cold water for a few minutes can help remove additional pesticides. Use filtered or reverse osmosis water if possible, as it’s free from potentially harmful contaminants commonly found in tap water, ensuring that you’re not adding more pollutants while trying to clean your produce.Natural Cleaning Solutions: Consider using a natural produce wash, which can be more effective at removing residues than water alone. You can make a simple and effective wash at home by mixing one part vinegar to three parts water. Soak your fruits and vegetables in the solution, then rinse thoroughly with cold, filtered water. The acetic acid in vinegar helps to break down pesticides and remove bacteria and viruses.Peeling and Trimming: While you might lose some fiber and nutrients, peeling fruits and vegetables can remove pesticides that linger on the skin. For strawberries, since peeling isn’t an option, remove the leafy cap and any white flesh directly beneath it, which may hold more residues. This step can be useful for produce where the outer layer or skin is not typically consumed.

As we continue to uncover the long-term impacts of pesticide exposure, it becomes clear that current standards may not adequately protect our health, particularly that of children. The American Academy of Pediatrics and other health organizations recommend minimizing children’s exposure to pesticides, citing links to developmental delays and various health disorders.

While the health benefits of consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables remain clear, the potential risks associated with pesticide exposure cannot be overlooked. It is imperative for consumers to be informed and cautious about their produce choices, opting for organic when possible, and for policymakers to enforce more stringent controls on pesticide use. By taking these steps, we can help ensure a healthier future for ourselves and our children, free from the hidden dangers of pesticide contamination.

* Divine Health makes an all organic greens powder and reds powder called Green Supremefood and Red Supremefood. One scoop of each contains the antioxidant equivalency of over 6 servings of fruits and vegetables. You can order them both here: Order Superfood Package 

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The Hidden Risks of Pesticides in Produce: A Closer Look at Non-Organic Farming

As a healthcare professional committed to promoting holistic health and well-being, I find it increasingly important to discuss the implications of pesticide exposure from non-organic produce. Recent findings from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and investigations by Consumer Reports have shed light on the concerning levels of pesticides found in both domestic and imported fruits and vegetables, raising substantial concerns about their impact on human health, particularly hormone systems and potential developmental issues in children.

The EWG’s 2024 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce highlights that a staggering 75 percent of all conventional fresh produce sampled contains residues of potentially harmful pesticides. More alarming, items on their Dirty Dozen list—which identifies the 12 non-organic fruits and vegetables with the most pesticides—show that 95 percent of samples harbor pesticide residues. Among the most frequently detected are fungicides such as fludioxonil, pyraclostrobin, boscalid, and pyrimethanil, with some showing properties that may disrupt the endocrine system and harm the male reproductive system.

Furthermore, Consumer Reports’ recent analysis echoes these findings, indicating high levels of pesticide contamination in commonly consumed fruits and vegetables, with a significant portion originating from imports. The report highlights that certain produce, like strawberries and green beans, even when labeled organic, still show pesticide levels due to widespread contamination and issues in pesticide regulation enforcement.

The implications of these findings are profound, especially for vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women. Fungicides and other pesticides are linked to various health issues, including hormonal disruptions and developmental problems in children. For instance, studies have shown that fludioxonil can act like estrogen and increase the proliferation of breast cancer cells. Similarly, pyrimethanil has been linked to thyroid disruption and may block androgen receptors in the body, posing risks to thyroid health and reproductive functions.

The dangers of pesticides extend beyond individual health concerns. The USDA’s tests, which still found traces of 254 different pesticides in fruits and vegetables after washing and peeling, suggest that the current methods of reducing pesticide exposure are insufficient. The presence of multiple pesticide residues can lead to compound effects that are not yet fully understood, potentially making them more harmful than the sum of their individual parts.

To combat these risks, it is crucial to adopt strategies that minimize exposure to pesticides, especially for those most at risk. While washing and scrubbing produce under running water can reduce pesticide levels, no method entirely removes all residues. Thus, opting for organic produce becomes a safer choice. Organic farming not only limits the use of synthetic pesticides but also supports sustainable agricultural practices that benefit the environment.

It is also vital to advocate for stricter regulations and more rigorous testing of pesticides by government bodies. As we continue to uncover the long-term impacts of pesticide exposure, it becomes clear that current standards may not adequately protect public health, particularly that of children. The American Academy of Pediatrics and other health organizations recommend minimizing children’s exposure to pesticides, citing links to developmental delays and various health disorders.

In conclusion, while the health benefits of consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables remain clear, the potential risks associated with pesticide exposure cannot be overlooked. It is imperative for consumers to be informed and cautious about their produce choices, opting for organic when possible, and for policymakers to enforce more stringent controls on pesticide use. By taking these steps, we can help ensure a healthier future for ourselves and our children, free from the hidden dangers of pesticide contamination.

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Are Keto Zone Shakes an Anti-Aging Food?

Top 10 Keto Zone Anti-Aging Foods

1. Purified Water

Okay, water is not exactly food. But, the substance that makes up most of the Earth, and most of our bodies, can provide a lot of healing, nourishment, and beauty to them.

One surefire way to appear older is to have dry skin. Dry skin increases the appearance of wrinkles and lines in our skin.

Staying hydrated with water each day can keep your skin looking supple, vibrant, and smooth.

2. Hydrolyzed Collagen

Hydrolyzed collagen powder is a protein made from the bones, tissues, and hooves of animals. Although this does not sound very particularly beautiful, the amino acids it contains can improve the health of our own tissues and skin.

In fact, it can do wonders for dry, winter skin.

A 2014 study of 46 women, ages 35-55, showed that eight weeks of collagen powder supplementation improved skin elasticity within just 4 weeks (1).

Another study showed that collagen increases moisture in the skin to produce younger-looking, less-fragmented skin (2).

3. Omega-3 Fats

Omega-3s fats are strong dietary antinflammatories.

When consumed, especially in amounts that improve their ratio to omega-6s, they cause our bodies to produce less harmful inflammatory hormones and more healthful anti-inflammatory hormones.

How does this slow aging?  Omega-3s keep us youthful by:

Improving heart health by reducing triglycerides, bad cholesterol, and cardiovascular inflammation. A healthy heart is a youthful one.Improving blood sugars. Balanced blood sugars mean less stiff arteries and healthier (younger) organs.Improving brain health. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are implanted in the brain and can affect cognitive decline (vs. a youthful brain), mood, and overall brain health.Increasing calorie burn and decreasing fat storage. Leaner, stronger bodies appear younger. Recent studies show an increase in calorie output with approximately 2000 mg DHA/EPA per day (you’ll average 1000 mg per day by eating 12 oz. salmon per week, so consider supplementing another 1000 mg per day). Furthermore, since the fats make your cells more sensitive to insulin, they reduce fat storage.

4. Raw Cacao, Black Pepper, and Cinnamon

Raw cacao, black pepper, and cinnamon are anti-aging foods that work at the cellular level. They are extremely high in antioxidants. Their antioxidants are so potent at the cellular level they go beyond the normal reduction in oxidative stress to promote longevity and health in the body.

Raw cacao’s nutrients cross the blood-brain barrier to affect brain health and mood (3).

One study of older adults showed an increase of 10% brain blood flow with cacao. Other studies show improved blood flow and cognition in those with and without a deficit, indicating a potential use for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Cinnamon, which has been found to have one of the highest antioxidant capacities among foods, can increase antioxidant activity by 13 percent when consumed daily!

Black pepper can keep joints feeling young: Study after study has shown reduced pain, increased healing, and decreased pathology in arthritic animals and humans (4).

5. Cucumbers and Celery

Some foods and nutrients help our bodies rid themselves of excess fluid. Cucumbers and celery are two such foods.

When we eat sugars, drink alcohol, eat foods too high in sodium, or even subject ourselves to high heat in the middle of winter, our skin can become puffy, giving us a more aged appearance.

The natural diuretic action of cucumbers and celery can reduce puffiness and improve the appearance of our skin.

6. Detox Vegetables: Kale, Cauliflower, and Broccoli

Many vegetables are loaded with vitamins and minerals, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, antioxidant, and cholesterol lowering nutrients.

Specific vegetables take it one step further and promote cellular detoxification to keep our cells healthy and young.

Cauliflower, broccoli and kale support our cells’ complete detoxifying process. Our cells are bombarded with toxins each day. When they are overloaded and need to detox, they undergo a 2-step process: Phase 1 and Phase 2 detoxification. Their antioxidants, which contain sulfur and nitrogen, make compounds that support both phases of detoxification.

An easy way to get the most out of detox vegetables? Try Fermented Green Supremefood.

7. Green Tea

Green tea is a youth-inducing drink. Its antioxidants repair and protect cells.

One specific antioxidant, EGCG goes for the brain.  In fact, in mice induced with Alzeimher’s and Parkinson’s Disease, it helped to protect brain cells from dying, as well as ‘rescuing’ already damaged neurons in the brain, a phenomenon called neurorescue or neurorestoration.

What’s more, EGCG has antibacterial properties that promote oral health in tea drinkers. A healthy smile is a youthful one.

It also helps keep eyes young and healthy. EGCG is absorbed by cells in the eye, and provide protective effects for up to 20 hours after consumption.  This has led many experts to believe it may have a role in reducing diseases of the eye and glaucoma.

Lastly, EGCG can help our bodies oxidize and burn fat.  Multiple studies have shown an increase in metabolic rates, weight loss, decreased waistline and fat loss with consistent green tea ingestion.

8. Vitamin D

When you consume vitamin D, you’re actually consuming a pre-hormone (a nutrient that acts as a precursor to hormones).

Vitamin D specifically can help keep our hormones balanced as we age.

It helps regulate other hormones, including adrenaline, noradrenaline, dopamine production in the brain, and serotonin. These hormones contribute to our emotional responses (5), metabolism, weight, and energy levels.

9. Youthful Hormone-Balancing Nutrients

Vitamin K2 is often deficient in adults. It improves bone health specifically in post-menopausal women. Bone health is important for a youthful body, as failing bones and joints can keep us from doing the youthful activities we want.

In fact, supplementing both K2 and D3 can promote balanced hormones that affect bones, and reduce spinal fractures, hip fractures, and osteoporosis while improving dental health (6).

Diindolylmethane (DIM), a compound produced by our bodies when we eat green vegetables, is important for balanced hormones because it alters the metabolism of estrogen. DIM blocks an enzyme that converts testosterone to estrogen and converts “bad estrogens,” into good estrogen metabolites (bad estrogens cause most pre-menstrual and menopause symptoms).

Good estrogens, on the other hand, promote lean muscle mass, beneficial collagen, strong bones, and heart health (6).

If you’re interested in consuming more of these nutrients that slow aging and balance hormones, check out this Hormone Zone supplement.

10. Ginger and Turmeric

Two of my favorite anti-inflammatory foods can help your cells, gut, joints, brain and tissues turn back the clock.

Ginger and Turmeric and amazing foods, alleviating arthritis, joint pain, and muscle pain. What’s more, they improve gut health, brain health, and whole-body health. This can keep you feeling spry and young.

Bottom Line

Just as there are foods and nutrients that expedite aging, there are the opposite: Nutrients and foods that slow aging. Keep eating anti-aging foods for whole body health and strong, youthful cells.

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7 Worst Habits for Brain Health. Guilty? Find Out & Fix

We all engage in good habits and bad habits. Sometimes, we simply don’t realize the impact of our bad habits. Sometimes, it’s simply our choice or we think they are too hard to break. Still other times, we don’t know the how to change them. When it comes to habits for brain health, take heart! You can actually make simple, easy changes for a huge health impact!

Take these 7 bad habits. Each of them has a relatively easy fix. You can take them one at a time and change each “bad” one into a healthy, brain-supporting habit. While you’re at it, you can use supplements to nourish your brain each day. 

Which habits for brain health do you need to change? 

7 Worst Habits for Brain Health



1. Sedentary, Indoors Lifestyle

If you sit indoors all of your day, or even the majority of your day, it’s time to make some changes for the sake of your brain.

You don’t have to run a marathon. But, there are many benefits to getting outside, sitting less, and improving flexibility (1)!

The Fix: Each day, work to do all 3 of these activities:

Get Outside for Activity: Cortisol levels naturally decrease when we spend time outdoors. What’s more, getting natural sunlight in the morning helps our bodies stay on track with wake/sleep hormones, promoting better sleep. All of this is good for the brain.
Stay Active: A brisk walk, hike, or other activity that increase your heart rate is brain-healthy! The more you do to increase blood flow to the brain, the better for brain health.
Work on Flexibility: Every year we age, our bodies become less flexible at the spine and trunk…unless you do something about it. Use stretching, yoga, or other flexibility exercises each day. Believe it or not, your trunk flexibility is directly correlated with blood pressure, and healthy blood pressure levels are good for the brain!




2. Eating an Ultra-Processed Diet

Chronic inflammation is one of our brains’ biggest enemies.

And, the fuel that enemy? Modern, processed foods.

Most of the packaged foods in our supermarkets are full of ingredients that promote inflammation in our bodies. These ingredients are cheap fats like soybean oil that compete with anti-inflammatory fats and hormones in the body. Some of the worst offenders include commercial dressings and condiments with soybean oil, margarine, TV dinners with unhealthy fats, sugary energy drinks, fried snacks like conventional potato chips, and fast-food deep-fried foods.

Many experts who have studied our current intake of inflammatory fats vs. anti-inflammatory ones are convinced that this dietary promotion of inflammation is a central cause to most of our chronic ailments. These conditions include degenerative brain issues. During the last decade, a new cause of neurodegeneration has been identified: sustained immune reactions in the brain caused by chronic inflammation (2).

The Fix: To reduce the risk of inflammatory issues and harm to your brain, reduce inflammatory, processed foods:

First, follow a healthy, low-carbohydrate diet that increases ketone production in your body. This is hugely beneficial for your brain (3, 4).


Eat an omega-3 source every day
Focus on anti-inflammatory foods such as seafoods, spices, nuts, seeds, fruits & vegetables
Nourish your brain with the right vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. See below.

3. Stressed-Out Lifestyle

There’s little doubt that chronic, mental stress is unhealthy for your brain.

In fact, according to a 2018 study, researchers found that increased blood cortisol levels are correlated with impaired memory and lower brain volume in mid-life (5). What’s more, after studying 2231 human participants, they found the effects were more pronounced in women participants than men.

Much of our modern-day stress is caused by our over-scheduled busy bee lives. But, there’s good news. You can take steps to reduce some stress and choose a slower life. Try to:

Clear Out Your Schedule. Start by simply looking at your calendar. Are there any activities you could do without? Are there any you could streamline? Do what you can to simplify your schedule. If you can’t remove anything, commit to not adding anything new that is not edifying or vital to your wellbeing!
Make time for laughter every day. First, identify your most stressful time. Is it the morning? The commute? The first hour back home? If you’re able, work in laughter during these times. Listen to comedy on the commute. Make time for a friend. Enjoy a funny book. Laughter has the opposite hormonal effect of stress.
Pray and practice gratitude. At the end of each day, take time to practice gratitude and pray. Put down the screens and write 3-5 specific things for which you are grateful. Even when you don’t feel like it. Believe it or not, studies show lower cortisol circulation immediately when subjects focus on things for which they are grateful.
Eat foods and drinks that may reduce cortisol naturally (see above). Try fatty fish like salmon, dark chocolate (70% or higher cocoa), fruits and vegetables, or superfood fruit and vegetable powders.  You can also drink cortisol-busting green tea and black tea to lower cortisol levels. Great for hot summer days!
Add a stress-fighting supplement to your regimen
For more ways to cut cortisol naturally, read our full list here.




4. Chronic Dehydration

Believe it or not, your brain is affected by your long-term and short-term hydration status. In fact, mood, fatigue, and alertness are all impaired with dehydration (6). Hydration also affects your digestive tract, skin, kidney function, and more (all tissues depend on it).

The Fix: Aim for a minimum of 64-80 oz. per day water or other fluid. Many people feel great when they drink even more! Make sure to add extra hydration when you sweat. Drink:

Water: Purified water is your best choice for hydration. It offers all the benefits without any extra ingredients to bog the body down.
Green and Black Tea: Green and black tea are youthful drinks! They can reduce age-expediting stress and cortisol, have antibacterial properties for oral health, support eye health contain brain-boosting compounds, and can even promote healthy weights (7).
What about coffee? Coffee is a healthful drink, and a great way to start the day. But its high caffeine level can act as a gentle diuretic, so don’t count it towards your hydration totals.

5. Sacrificing Sleep

For a sharp, youthful, healthy brain, aim to consistently get at least 7-8 hours of good sleep per night. It’s truly one of the most potent brain healers.

In fact, lack of sleep is associated with increased anxiety, slow brain performance, increased blood sugars, hormone disturbances, metabolic issues, memory impairment, knowledge retention, and more (8, 9, 10).

The Fix: Do everything you can to prioritize sleep. This may mean improving your sleeping environment by cooling the temperature, using black-out curtains, and/or using a noise machine to drown out noises that disturb you. It may also mean reducing blue light screens starting an hour before sleep.

If you suffer from snoring, sleep apnea, or anything else that disturbs sleep, it’s worthwhile to speak with your doctor and explore treatments.

6. Trashing Your Gut Health 

If you want a healthy brain, you cannot ignore gut health. In fact, your digestive health has direct implications for your brain health. Amazingly, it’s now known that (11):

Gut inflammation promotes brain inflammation and declining function
An unhealthy digestive tract promotes illness in other parts of the body
Healing your gut can reduce brain fog, increase alertness, support youthful memory, and energize the body and brain
Immune function is dependent on a healthy digestive tract

Healthy digestion is first responsible for nourishing your body, from your hair to your toes. Beyond the nourishment, there is an incredible gut-brain connection that impacts your brain health directly.

The Fix: As stated above, start with a healthy diet and get rid of ultra-processed foods. Next, include healthy, fibrous foods and supplements such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and more within a gut -fortifying eating plan. 

6. Alcohol Binges

Alcohol can harm your brain in 3 ways. First, it can negatively impact your gut health. Next, it can lead to poor-decision making and risky behaviors that can hurt your brain. Lastly, it directly impacts brain cells and brain structure.

In fact, both binge drinking and the amount of drinks per week can negatively affect global cortical thickness and global cortical surface area (12).

The Fix: Of course, omitting alcohol from your diet is a great way to support brain health! If you decide to drink alcohol, make sure to go several days per week without consuming it. When you drink it, don’t binge and keep it to just 1-2 servings.

Guilty? Start Supporting Brain Health

First, look at every bad habit above and start to rid your lifestyle of them, one by one. The best way to get rid of a bad habit is to replace it with a good one, so look at every fix. Take it slow, and concentrate on one habit per 2 weeks.

While diving into the habits and fixes, you can also start to nourish your brain with specific nutrients that support brain health today.

How? Start using a brain health supplement system like Brain Zone, formulated by Dr. Colbert:

Dr. Colbert’s Brain Zone Basic: This supplement boasts a nutrient complex that specifically supports brain health by supporting your brain’s natural aging strengths while attenuating cognitive declines. In fact, every Brain Zone Basic capsule includes B-vitamins, anti-inflammatory compounds, and healthy fats that encourage optimal brain health throughout your life. Specifically, Brain Zone Basic combines 4 brain-supporting B-vitamins, anti-inflammatory curcumin, and brain-supporting phospholipids (13, 14).  

Dr. Colbert’s Brain Zone Focus: If you’re looking for a more youthful, sharp, focused brain experience, take a look at Brain Zone Focus. This supplement combines powerful amino acids, vitamins, and compounds that encourage brain health, clarity, healing, motivation, and focus. In fact, it contains amino acids that have been found to support mitochondria health, memory, brain energy, detoxification, stress-reductions, and more (15, 16).

Brain Zone Advanced: Brain Zone Advanced is a wonderful supplement that encourages brain health, reduced stress, and neuroprotection. It combines naturally occurring compounds like citicoline, adaptogens, flavonoids, phytochemicals, and more. It can take your experience of feeling tired and anxious, and promote increased neurotransmitter activity, neuroprotection, stable healthy moods, and optimal cognitive performance, even under stress (17, 18, 19)!

Dr. Colbert’s Healthy Brain Zone Book: The key ingredient to fighting brain issues associated with aging isn’t in prescriptions or unnatural treatments. It’s in a healthy, gut-friendly diet! This book will give you insight about the science behind the brain-gut connection so you can make wise and healthy diet choices.

Bottom Line

Every habit matters to our health, both good and bad. While it may take time, you can work on the ones that might harm your brain, and replace them with habits that encourage brain health. In the meantime, nourish your brain each day with supplements formulated for healthy brain function!

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A Long Healthy Life Plan. Take Steps to Reduce Your Risk.

As most people know, body weight has a significant impact on health.  It can contribute to a host of serious health problems including heart, metabolism, and blood sugar issues. Additionally, it can have a significant impact on quality of life, chronic pain and joint dysfunction, inflammation, and more. On the other hand, a healthy weight can contribute to a long healthy life.

But, did you know that one life factor TRIPLES the risk? It’s true. The number of years lived with a high, unhealthy weight can triple mortality risk. It’s been over a decade since researchers at Monash University first published their findings. In years since, we’re seen the results of a population living year after year with unhealthy weights. Heart issues, blood sugar issues, and most recently, the impact of weight on viral infection outcomes, have continued to show how unhealthy weights can affect health.

If you or a loved one is living with an unhealthy body weight, there’s literally no time to waste. Here’s what we learned from the Monash Study and what steps to take today.

The Monash Study: Triple Risk vs. Long Healthy Life

In a study published in the International Journal of Epidemiology following over 5000 participants for up to 48 years, researchers at Monash University found a link between one factor and a significantly increased mortality risk. The factor? Living with a high unhealthy weight (25% body fat or more) for more than 15 years can triple your mortality risk. What’s more, they found that for every 2 additional years of obesity, mortality increases 6-7 percent (1).

This is good and bad news.

The good news is, if you’ve lived with a high unhealthy weight for less than 15 years, your risk is lower, but there’s still no time to lose. You’ve got to act now to get to a healthy weight. If over 15 years, you’re at a higher risk but can still work to decrease the risk that comes with every additional 2 years of being at a high weight.

For everyone, the time to act is now.

Obtain a Healthy Weight and Encourage a Long Healthy Life

What can you do to obtain a healthy weight, decrease risk, and encourage a long healthy life? Any measure to obtain a healthy weight is beneficial! In fact, there are many ways to get there. You can talk to your doctor about options. You can increase your energy expenditure through exercise, increase your muscle mass through resistance training, and you can eat a healthier diet. This are all great steps.

We’ve seen all different plans work. A great way to work towards a healthy weight is through a whole-food, low-carb diet that focuses on healthy fats, vegetables, and eliminates processed foods.

As you move the scale, you may also see that it supports whole body health by fortifying cells with nutrients and encouraging healthy body systems. There’s no time to lose, start a plan today.

Start An Effective Plan to Encourage a Long Healthy Life

Ready to work towards a healthy weight and long healthy life?

One great option is the Keto Zone. You can even jump start it with the 21-Day Detox and Cleanse System.

Keto Zone is a wonderful, healthy lifestyle that supports healthy weight, heart health, and whole-body health. It’s a full program to help you meet your goals. Here’s why whole-food low-carb plans are a great option to encourage a long, healthy life.

1. The Healthy Low-Carb Plan Supports Healthy Weight without Hunger

Hunger is one of the biggest reasons most people can’t stick with a standard diet. Once hungry, many people fixate on what they want to eat, but cannot have. Oftentimes, those diet-induced “intense cravings” are simply intense hunger.

But there’s not a hunger issue with the Keto Zone.

Keto Zone’s low-carb eating and ketosis automatically lead to a reduction in appetite (1). This occurs for a few reasons:

Healthy fat foods are filling and promote satietyProteins are slow-digesting, allowing eaters to feel satisfiedKetone production suppresses appetiteLeptin levels are optimized signaling fullness

What’s more, according to several studies, people eat fewer calories when they eat low-carbohydrate while increasing protein and fat (2).

2. Low-Carb Eating Leads to Quick Initial Weight Changes, Mostly Abdominal

There’s little doubt; when you cut carbs significantly, you’ll improve your body weight. In fact, you can specifically affect abdominal fat, and you’ll see the most results in the first 6 months.

First, low-carb diets help your body rid itself of excess water and bloating, especially in the mid-section. Then, they lower insulin. Even moderately high insulin levels stand as a barrier to fat breakdown and loss.

Low-carb eaters generally see reduction in fat in the first 2 weeks (3, 4). Typically, they see a 2-3x better success rate than low-fat dieters, and they’re able to do it without hunger (5).

You may have heard that different diets result in the same amount of weight change after six months or so. It’s true that low-carb eating has the most impact initially (6). But it’s also true that most dieters who do not show initial success give up in the first month. Losing early is important to long-term success.

But there’s another advantage. Low-carb eating tends to reduce abdominal visceral fat. This fat is lodged around organs and is associated with inflammation and insulin resistance. Keto Zone eating targets visceral fat and helps you lower it quickly (7, 8).

3. Low-Carb Can Encourages Healthy Triglycerides and Blood Pressure

Triglycerides are fat molecules that circulate in your bloodstream. When they are high, there is a high risk of heart issues (9).

What causes high triglycerides?

You’ve guessed it: In sedentary people, it’s simple sugar and carbohydrate consumption (10, 11, 12). Cut the carbs with Keto Zone and you’ll likely see a drop in triglycerides (13, 14).

You’ll also see blood pressure fall. Elevated blood pressure puts you at risk of many diseases including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Low-carb Keto Zone eating is a great antidote (15, 16).

4. A Healthy Plan Supports Healthy Cholesterol Numbers

The low-carb diet like Keto Zone diet will also promote better cholesterol readings.

How?

First, it will support healthy high-density lipoprotein (HDL) numbers. Since a better ratio of HDL to “bad” LDL lowers your risk of heart issues, this is great news (17, 18, 19)!

Then, it can even encourage a healthier type of LDL cholesterol in your blood. Especially if you include medium chain triglycerides, you can reduce the type of LDL cholesterol that is able to enter cell walls and form plaques.

5. Low-Carb is Great for Blood Sugars

This one’s simple. If you cut carbs, you will support healthy blood sugars.

Unfortunately, elevated blood sugars and resistance to insulin affects millions of people worldwide (20, 21). Not only is this an issue in and of itself, but high blood sugars also make it very difficult to obtain a healthy weight.

Study and study have concluded that cutting carbs dramatically reduces blood sugars and insulin levels (22, 23). It’s so drastic that it’s important to warn your doctor about the diet change as you’ll likely need less insulin and/or medication in order to not experience low blood sugars.

6. Ketones are Beneficial for Brain Health

When you don’t eat as many carbs, your brain will begin to burn ketones instead of carbs as fuel.

Astonishingly, this change in brain fuel has been used successfully for decades to help children with epilepsy vastly reduce seizures (without medications) (24).

Now, there is promising research on ketosis and brain improvements. For degenerative brain conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease (25). What’s more, many people in ketosis report greater brain clarity, focus, and function than before. This is great news if you are seeking a long, healthy, life.

7. A Holistic Plan Encourages Whole Foods, Vegetables, and Healthy Fats

Unlike some ketogenic diet plans, plans like Keto Zone discriminates on the fats and proteins you choose.

It encourages consumption of high omega-3 foods and proteins that are anti-inflammatory.  These include organic and local meats, fish, medium chain triglycerides, and more.

It also promotes consumption of whole greens and vegetables, utilizing low-carb options in meal planning and recipes.

What’s more, it urges users to use spices and foods that promote whole body health such as turmeric, collagen, cinnamon, ginger, and more. Whole foods for whole body health.

8. There’s More to a Healthy Low-Carb Plan

Amazingly, cutting carbs and increasing healthy fats with Keto Zone does even more than affect heart health, brain health, and blood sugars.

This style of eating also benefits those suffering from autoimmune issues and inflammation. In addition to weight loss, it encourages healthy foods and fats that support healthy autoimmune function while discouraging inflammatory foods such as gluten and unhealthy processed foods.

Keto Zone can help you support overall health and reduce risk of early death by encouraging a healthy weight!

The Bottom Line

If you’re ready to make a real change and reduce your risk of early death, get started with  a healthy plan like Keto Zone and the 21-Day Detox and Cleanse System.

You can do this. There’s no time to waste. Begin healthy habits for a long healthy life.

The post A Long Healthy Life Plan. Take Steps to Reduce Your Risk. appeared first on ..

One Factor Triples Your Risk of Early Death. Time is Ticking

It’s a fact: obesity increases mortality directly and indirectly. It contributes to a host of serious health conditions including heart, metabolism, and blood sugar issues. Additionally, it has a significant impact on quality of life, chronic pain and joint dysfunction, inflammation, and more. Obesity is a vitally linked to the risk of early death.

But, did you know that one factor TRIPLES the risk? The number of years lived with obesity can triple the risk of early death. It’s been over a decade since researchers at Monash University first published their findings. In years since, we’re seen the results of a population living year after year with obesity. Heart disease, diabetes, and most recently, the impact of obesity on pandemic mortality, have continued to be the most significant killers in our country.

If you or a loved one is living with obesity, there’s literally no time to waste. Here’s what we learned from the Monash Study and what steps to take today.

The Monash Study: Risk of Early Death

In a study published in the International Journal of Epidemiology following over 5000 participants for up to 48 years, researchers at Monash University found a link between one factor and a significantly increased risk of early death. The factor? Living with obesity (25% body fat or more) for more than 15 years can triple your risk of early death. What’s more, they found that for every 2 additional years of obesity, mortality increases 6-7 percent (1).

This is good and bad news.

The good news is, if you’ve been overweight or obese for less than 15 years, your risk is lower, but there’s still no time to lose. You’ve got to act now to get to a healthy weight. If over 15 years, you’re at a higher risk but can still work to decrease the risk that comes with every additional 2 years of being obese.

For everyone, the time to act is now.

Obtain a Healthy Weight and Decrease Risk of Early Death

What can you do to obtain a healthy weight and decrease risk of early death? Any measure to obtain a healthy weight is beneficial. However, some plans work more efficiently and effectively than others. Plus, some contribute to your whole body health by fortifying cells with nutrients and improving your body systems. Take this one step today to see results quickly and support whole-body health.

Start Keto Zone & the 21-Day Detox & Fast Today

Keto Zone is a proven lifestyle that promotes healthy weight, heart health, and whole-body health. It’s a full program to help you meet your goals. In addition, you can utilize the 21-Day Detox and Cleanse System to get a jump start. Here’s why it’s the best plan to reduce your risk:

1. The Keto Zone Promotes Healthy Weight without Hunger

Hunger is one of the biggest reasons most people can’t stick with a standard diet. Once hungry, many people fixate on what they want to eat, but cannot have. Oftentimes, those diet-induced “intense cravings” are simply intense hunger.

But there’s not a hunger issue with the Keto Zone.

Keto Zone’s low-carb eating and ketosis automatically lead to a reduction in appetite (1). This occurs for a few reasons:

Healthy fat foods are filling and promote satietyProteins are slow-digesting, allowing eaters to feel satisfiedKetone production suppresses appetiteLeptin levels are optimized signaling fullness

What’s more, according to several studies, people eat fewer calories when they eat low-carbohydrate while increasing protein and fat (2).

2. Keto Zone Eating Leads to Quick Initial Weight Loss, Mostly Abdominal Fat

There’s little doubt; when you cut carbs significantly, you’ll improve your body weight. In fact, you can specifically lose abdominal fat, and you’ll see the most results in the first 6 months.

First, low-carb diets help your body rid itself of excess water and bloating, especially in the mid-section. Then, they lower insulin. Even moderately high insulin levels stand as a barrier to fat breakdown and loss.

Low-carb eaters generally see reduction in fat in the first 2 weeks (3, 4). Typically, they see a 2-3x better success rate than low-fat dieters, and they’re able to do it without hunger (5).

You may have heard that different diets result in the same amount of weight change after six months or so. It’s true that low-carb eating has the most impact initially (6). But it’s also true that most dieters who do not show initial success give up in the first month. Losing early is important to long-term success.

But there’s another advantage. Low-carb eating tends to reduce abdominal visceral fat. This fat is lodged around organs and is associated with inflammation and insulin resistance. Keto Zone eating targets visceral fat and helps you lower it quickly (7, 8).

3. The Keto Zone Helps Lower Harmful Triglycerides and Blood Pressure

Triglycerides are fat molecules that circulate in your bloodstream. When they are high, there is a high risk of heart issues (9).

What causes high triglycerides?

You’ve guessed it: In sedentary people, it’s simple sugar and carbohydrate consumption (10, 11, 12). Cut the carbs with Keto Zone and you’ll likely see a drop in triglycerides (13, 14).

You’ll also see blood pressure fall. Elevated blood pressure puts you at risk of many diseases including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Low-carb Keto Zone eating is a great antidote (15, 16).

4. Keto Zone Supports Better Cholesterol Numbers

The Keto Zone diet will also promote better cholesterol readings.

How?

First, it will support healthy high-density lipoprotein (HDL) numbers. Since a better ratio of HDL to “bad” LDL lowers your risk of heart issues, this is great news (17, 18, 19)!

Then, it can even encourage a healthier type of LDL cholesterol in your blood. Especially if you include medium chain triglycerides, you can reduce the type of LDL cholesterol that is able to enter cell walls and form plaques.

5. Keto Zone is Great for Blood Sugars

This one’s simple. If you cut carbs, you will support healthy blood sugars.

Unfortunately, elevated blood sugars and resistance to insulin affects millions of people worldwide (20, 21). Not only is this an issue in and of itself, but high blood sugars also make it very difficult to obtain a healthy weight.

Study and study have concluded that cutting carbs dramatically reduces blood sugars and insulin levels (22, 23). It’s so drastic that it’s important to warn your doctor about the diet change as you’ll likely need less insulin and/or medication in order to not experience low blood sugars.

6. Keto Zone is Beneficial for Brain Health

When you don’t eat as many carbs, your brain will begin to burn ketones instead of carbs as fuel.

Astonishingly, this change in brain fuel has been used successfully for decades to help children with epilepsy vastly reduce seizures (without medications) (24).

Now, there is promising research on ketosis and brain improvements. For degenerative brain conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease (25). What’s more, many people in ketosis report greater brain clarity, focus, and function than before.

7. Keto Zone Encourages Whole Foods, Vegetables, and Healthy Fats

Unlike some ketogenic diet plans, the Keto Zone discriminates on the fats and proteins you choose.

It encourages consumption of high omega-3 foods and proteins that are anti-inflammatory.  These include organic and local meats, fish, medium chain triglycerides, and more.

It also promotes consumption of whole greens and vegetables, utilizing low-carb options in meal planning and recipes.

What’s more, it urges users to use spices and foods that promote whole body health such as turmeric, collagen, cinnamon, ginger, and more. Whole foods for whole body health.

8. Keto Zone Does Even More

Amazingly, cutting carbs and increasing healthy fats with Keto Zone does even more than affect heart health, brain health, and blood sugars.

This style of eating also benefits those suffering from autoimmune issues and inflammation. In addition to weight loss, it encourages healthy foods and fats that support healthy autoimmune function while discouraging inflammatory foods such as gluten and unhealthy processed foods.

Keto Zone can help you support overall health and reduce risk of early death by encouraging a healthy weight!

The Bottom Line

If you’re ready to make a real change and reduce your risk of early death, get started with Keto Zone and the 21-Day Detox and Cleanse System.

You can do this. There’s no time to waste.

The post One Factor Triples Your Risk of Early Death. Time is Ticking appeared first on ..

14 Day Green Smoothie Challenge. 5 Remarkable Results.

Want to feel lighter, more energized, and healthy this spring? Are you ready to switch things up a bit and head into summer on a healthy note? This green smoothie challenge isa great opportunity to start.

A longtime Divine Health customer recently tried a 14-day green smoothie challenge to see how her body would respond. She simply swapped her regular lunch for our Keto Zone Energizing Green Smoothie (recipe below).  This is what she reported, both subjective and objective results.

But first, here’s the recipe and the details of its ingredients, and what you can take the challenge too.

Keto Zone Energizing Green Smoothie

Ingredients

1 cup coconut or almond milk (from a carton, not can)1 scoop Divine Health Fermented Green Supremefoods1/2 cup frozen raw cranberries (if not available, omit and increase berries to 1/2 cup)1/4 cup frozen berries1 cup fresh mixed greens (try alternating greens)1/4 avocadojuice from 1/2 lemon1 tablespoon raw apple cider vinegar1 scoop Keto Zone Collagen Powder (Unflavored)1 scoop Keto Zone Fiber Zone (Berry or Lemon-Lime)1/2-1 cup water

Instructions

Mix all ingredients in a blender, adding water as needed for desired consistency. Makes 1 large serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition info: 349 calories, 6 grams fat, 12 grams net carbs (26 grams carbs, 14 grams fiber), 26 grams protein

Why Try Our Fermented Energizing Green Smoothie Challenge?

There are many wonderful ingredients in the smoothie, but are they magic? Almost. In addition to Keto Zone Collagen Powder, Keto Zone Fiber Zone, fresh fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats, the star of this smoothie is Divine Health Fermented Green Supremefoods. This amazing fermented green powder is full of USDA Organic greens, vegetables, grasses, and ingredients like milk thistle.

Milk thistle is a very special ingredient. It has been shown to support liver health, potentially offer neuroprotection and support healthy brain function in aging (1, 2), stimulate bone mineralization (3), support healthy skin and fewer blemishes (4), promote insulin sensitivity (5), and support healthy immune function.

In addition, fermented foods like those in Divine Health Fermented Green Supremefoods contain:

Less Sugar. Fermentation vastly decreases sugar since it has been used as food for the fermenters. The remaining sugars become more easily digestible.More Nutrients. Many vitamins, minerals, and nutrients become easier to digest and absorb.Healthy Bacteria. As the fermenters proliferate, healthy bacteria multiply.Natural Food Preservation. Byproducts of fermentation, like alcohol and lactic acid, naturally preserve food.Better Proteins. As fermenters eat, they often alter proteins to make them more digestible.What Can Happen in Just 2 Weeks?

In just 2 weeks, she reported the following:

1. More Energy

Do you ever feel tired after lunch? Many adults do. Our customer did.

Adults often eat lunches that cause an energy peak and crash, or that are full of processed ingredients (like soybean oil) associated with health declines.

If that describes your lunch, trade it out for the Keto Zone® Energizing Green Smoothie!

This energizing smoothie is full of easy-to-digest energizing ingredients instead of processed ones. It has helped many people maintain steady energy throughout the afternoon, rather than an afternoon slump.

2. Less Afternoon Bloat and Flatter Stomach

How about bloat? Do you feel too full and uncomfortable after meals?

Our Energizing Green Smoothies goes above and beyond other green smoothies for digestion.

Fermented foods can fight belly bloat while supporting healthy digestion. In addition, the psyllium husk and inulin in Keto Zone Fiber Zone are some of the best ingredients available for healthy digestion. This means more nutrients are delivered to the body while digestion is comfortable and healthy.

3. Modest Weight Change

This, of course, depends on your current habits, starting point and weight. But, liquid nutrition has a long history of supporting a healthier weight as long as the ingredients in the smoothie are good ones! In fact, studies have found that healthy green smoothies are great for a healthy weight.

Why?

Smoothie-drinkers often feel full because smoothies have a large volume. In studies, this has proven successful for dieters (6). They also pack in a lot of nutrients for a relatively small amount of calories.

What’s more, the energizing detox nutrients in the Divine Health Fermented Green Supremefoods, including organic fermented grasses, greens, and fiber can support cellular health. This in turn may allow cells to more efficiently oxidize fat.

This particular customer started just a few pounds over her goal weight, and she still experienced a 2-3 pound loss.

4. Healthy Skin

There are many ingredients in the smoothie that support skin health, including those in Divine Health Fermented Green Supremefoods  (like milk thistle) and Keto Zone Collagen Powder. In fact, hydrolyzed collagen is a well-known and tested ingredient for amazing skin.

According to studies, collagen has been shown to support healthy skin hydration, improved visual assessment of skin, and skin elasticity (7).

Our customer reported no break-outs and more glow in her skin…she had previously complained of dullness.

5. Less Hunger

After lunch, our customer said she used to first feel bloated, but then extremely hungry by late afternoon.

Smoothies often go one of two ways. Sometimes, dieters feel famished.. Typically, this is because they are drinking low-fiber, high-sugar, low-nutrition smoothies. Or, they are drinking smoothies that simply don’t contain enough calories.

On the other hand, many dieters report less hunger and more energy with smoothies.

This is not a low-calorie smoothie. What’s more, the combination of Keto Zone Fiber Zone, high-volume fruits and vegetables, Divine Health Fermented Green Supremefoods, water, and air whipped into it (this always happens with a blender), promotes satiety without a big solid-food lunch or an afternoon snack.

Bonus Benefits: Detox and Cleanse

Divine Health Fermented Green Supremefoods is a part of an even greater cleanse system, called the 21 Day Detox and Cleanse Starter System. If you’re ready to dive in, you’ll get many more benefits from adding intermittent fasting, gallbladder cleansing, and more!

Let Us Know Your Experience

Once you take this 14-day Energizing Green Smoothie Challenge, let us know what you think! Did you feel energized? See a flatter belly or experience weight changes? Skin changes?

We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

Our Keto Zone Energizing Green Smoothie may just change your life, or at least your lunches and afternoons. Give it a try for 2 weeks and let us know how the fermented greens, fibers, and healthy fats affect your body. Enjoy!

 

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6 Easy Elegant Keto Dishes for an Easter Menu

Whether you’re getting together with family, friends, people from church, or having a more laid-back get-together, you can still bring ease and elegance with a Keto Easter Menu. You don’t have to go in on the candy and carbs. Instead, enjoy a wonderful day, with wonderful, healthy foods.

Here are our top picks for Easter Dinner this year!

6 Dishes for an Easy, Elegant Keto Easter Menu1. Delicious “Secret Tip” Kale & Berry Salad

Gather 1 bunch kale (stalks removed and discarded, leaves sliced thinly), 1 lemon, juiced, 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling, sea salt, liquid organic stevia, freshly ground black pepper, 1/2 cup raspberries, and ¼ cup pine nuts, sunflower seeds, or chopped toasted walnuts.

Place sliced kale, half of the lemon juice, a drizzle of oil and a dash of salt in a large bowl.

Secret tip: Massage the kale with this mixture (by hand) until the kale starts to soften and even wilt, 2 to 3 minutes. Set aside.

Meanwhile, make the dressing.  In a small bowl, whisk remaining lemon juice, erythritol, and lots of freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Pour in 1/4 cup of oil while whisking until a dressing forms. Pour the dressing over the kale, and add the mango and seeds/nuts. Toss and serve. Serves 4. Make more for your Keto Easter Dinner!

2. Smoked Salmon Keto Eggs

Gather 12 organic hard-boiled eggs, 4 tablespoons smoked salmon (chopped), 3 tablespoons avocado mayonnaise, 1/4 cup finely chopped cucumber, 2 teaspoons chopped dill, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.

To make, prepare hard-boiled eggs by removing egg shells, cutting lengthwise, removing yolks, and placing yolks in a bowl. Set egg whites aside.

With a fork, break yolks into chunks. To egg yolks, add 3 tablespoons salmon, avocado mayonnaise, cucumber, dill, and freshly ground black pepper. Gently stir until combined.

Place egg whites on a serving dish or in a jelly roll pan lined with paper towels (to prevent eggs from rolling). Spoon about 1 tablespoon egg-yolk mixture into each egg-white half. Top eggs with remaining 1 tablespoon chopped salmon. Cover eggs and refrigerate up to 4 hours. Just before serving, garnish with dill sprigs.

3. Amazing Keto “Potato” Salad

If you’ve been eating Beyond Keto for any amount of time, you probably know that cauliflower is an easy, delicious substitute for potatoes. This recipe is no exception.

Gather 1 head organic cauliflower, 4 organic eggs  (hard boiled and peeled), 1 cup keto-friendly avocado mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons organic apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup organic green onions (chopped), 1/4 cup organic parsley (chopped), 1/2 cup organic celery (chopped), 2 cloves organic garlic (minced), 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon organic black pepper.

To make, cut off and dispose of the cauliflower stem. Chop the remaining cauliflower into florets. Place cauliflower in a steamer and lightly steam until cauliflower is slightly tender but still crunchy, about 3 minutes. Once steamed, set cauliflower aside.

In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and hard boiled eggs. Add in chopped onions, parsley, celery, and garlic. Use a fork to mix until eggs are mashed and ingredients are thoroughly mixed.

Add in apple cider vinegar, sea salt, and black pepper. Add in cauliflower florets. Mix until the cauliflower is thoroughly coated with mixture.

Cover cauliflower salad and place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to marinate. Serve and enjoy!

4. “Honey” Keto Glazed Ham

Gather a bone-in pre-cooked 8-10 pound ham, 1/3 cup water, 1 cup “brown-sugar” KETO sweetener, 1/2 cup organic butter, 2 tablespoons molasses, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, 3 cloves garlic (minced), and freshly ground pepper.

To make, preheat the oven to 350°F. Trim the rind off the ham, leaving the fat layer intact. Score the fat in a crisscross “x” pattern, cutting into the fat. Avoid cutting all the way to the flesh under the fat.

Prepare a 9×13 baking dish or pan with coconut oil for easy cleanup. Place the ham in the dish and add water to cover the bottom. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, place a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the sweetener, butter, molasses,  mustard, and spices. Stir until dissolved and heated through. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F. Brush the ham with 1/3 of the glaze. Return ham to the oven uncovered for 15 minutes.

Remove ham from the oven. Re-glaze with 1/3 of the glaze. Return to the oven for 15 minutes. Repeat one more time with the last 1/3 of glaze. Sprinkle with fresh ground pepper if desired. Cook for another (final) 15 minutes of cooking. Remove from the oven. Allow to rest for 15 minutes. Slice and enjoy. Makes approximately 16 servings. Perfect for a Keto Easter Dinner!

5. Keto Lemon Bar “Fat-Bombs”

Gather 1 ounce of coconut butter, 1 ounce of coconut oil, 1 scoop Vanilla MCT Oil Powder, 1 ounce of unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon of keto sweetener, AND ½ cup lemon juice.

To make, mix coconut butter, coconut oil, MCT Oil Powder, unsalted butter, keto sweetener, and lemon juice into a bowl. Pour the mixture into a small saucepan over low heat. Heat until just melted, then remove from the heat. Then, pour mixture into 8×8 baking pan

Place in the fridge and chill for 1 hour, until set. Sprinkle your choice of extra keto sweetener on top for added embellishment — enjoy!

6. Keto Zone Lemon Berry Spritzer (Non-Alcoholic)

Gather 1/2 cup fresh raspberries, 1/2 cup low-carb sweetener, 1/4 cup water, 1/2 cup lemon juice (bottled or fresh), and sparkling mineral water.

First make the Keto Zone simple syrup: In a small saucepan, place raspberries, sweetener of choice, and water. Heat on high heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer, then mash berries using a potato masher. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat.

Using a fine-mesh sieve, strain liquid into a bowl or jar. Press as much liquid as you can out of the berries using the back of a spoon against the sieve. Discard any remaining berries or use them for another application. Add lemon juice to the berry mixture, stir to combine.

To serve, pour 2 tablespoons of this keto syrup into the bottom of a glass. Add ice, and pour sparkling water over the ice. Garnish with a lemon slice and/or fresh berries. Enjoy!

Bottom Line

There are endless possibilities for an easy, elegant Keto Easter Menu. We hope you enjoy the ones we’ve shared!

 

The post 6 Easy Elegant Keto Dishes for an Easter Menu appeared first on ..

Easy Elegant Keto Easter Menu

Whether you’re getting together with family, friends, people from church, or having a more laid-back get-together, you can still bring ease and elegance with a Keto Easter Menu. You don’t have to go in on the candy and carbs. Instead, enjoy a wonderful day, with wonderful, healthy foods.

Here are our top picks for Easter Dinner this year!

6 Dishes for an Easy, Elegant Keto Easter Menu1. Delicious “Secret Tip” Kale & Berry Salad

Gather 1 bunch kale (stalks removed and discarded, leaves sliced thinly), 1 lemon, juiced, 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling, sea salt, liquid organic stevia, freshly ground black pepper, 1/2 cup raspberries, and ¼ cup pine nuts, sunflower seeds, or chopped toasted walnuts.

Place sliced kale, half of the lemon juice, a drizzle of oil and a dash of salt in a large bowl.

Secret tip: Massage the kale with this mixture (by hand) until the kale starts to soften and even wilt, 2 to 3 minutes. Set aside.

Meanwhile, make the dressing.  In a small bowl, whisk remaining lemon juice, erythritol, and lots of freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Pour in 1/4 cup of oil while whisking until a dressing forms. Pour the dressing over the kale, and add the mango and seeds/nuts. Toss and serve. Serves 4. Make more for your Keto Easter Dinner!

2. Smoked Salmon Keto Eggs

Gather 12 organic hard-boiled eggs, 4 tablespoons smoked salmon (chopped), 3 tablespoons avocado mayonnaise, 1/4 cup finely chopped cucumber, 2 teaspoons chopped dill, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.

To make, prepare hard-boiled eggs by removing egg shells, cutting lengthwise, removing yolks, and placing yolks in a bowl. Set egg whites aside.

With a fork, break yolks into chunks. To egg yolks, add 3 tablespoons salmon, avocado mayonnaise, cucumber, dill, and freshly ground black pepper. Gently stir until combined.

Place egg whites on a serving dish or in a jelly roll pan lined with paper towels (to prevent eggs from rolling). Spoon about 1 tablespoon egg-yolk mixture into each egg-white half. Top eggs with remaining 1 tablespoon chopped salmon. Cover eggs and refrigerate up to 4 hours. Just before serving, garnish with dill sprigs.

3. Amazing Keto “Potato” Salad

If you’ve been eating Beyond Keto for any amount of time, you probably know that cauliflower is an easy, delicious substitute for potatoes. This recipe is no exception.

Gather 1 head organic cauliflower, 4 organic eggs  (hard boiled and peeled), 1 cup keto-friendly avocado mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons organic apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup organic green onions (chopped), 1/4 cup organic parsley (chopped), 1/2 cup organic celery (chopped), 2 cloves organic garlic (minced), 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon organic black pepper.

To make, cut off and dispose of the cauliflower stem. Chop the remaining cauliflower into florets. Place cauliflower in a steamer and lightly steam until cauliflower is slightly tender but still crunchy, about 3 minutes. Once steamed, set cauliflower aside.

In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and hard boiled eggs. Add in chopped onions, parsley, celery, and garlic. Use a fork to mix until eggs are mashed and ingredients are thoroughly mixed.

Add in apple cider vinegar, sea salt, and black pepper. Add in cauliflower florets. Mix until the cauliflower is thoroughly coated with mixture.

Cover cauliflower salad and place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to marinate. Serve and enjoy!

4. “Honey” Keto Glazed Ham

Gather a bone-in pre-cooked 8-10 pound ham, 1/3 cup water, 1 cup “brown-sugar” KETO sweetener, 1/2 cup organic butter, 2 tablespoons molasses, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, 3 cloves garlic (minced), and freshly ground pepper.

To make, preheat the oven to 350°F. Trim the rind off the ham, leaving the fat layer intact. Score the fat in a crisscross “x” pattern, cutting into the fat. Avoid cutting all the way to the flesh under the fat.

Prepare a 9×13 baking dish or pan with coconut oil for easy cleanup. Place the ham in the dish and add water to cover the bottom. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, place a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the sweetener, butter, molasses,  mustard, and spices. Stir until dissolved and heated through. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F. Brush the ham with 1/3 of the glaze. Return ham to the oven uncovered for 15 minutes.

Remove ham from the oven. Re-glaze with 1/3 of the glaze. Return to the oven for 15 minutes. Repeat one more time with the last 1/3 of glaze. Sprinkle with fresh ground pepper if desired. Cook for another (final) 15 minutes of cooking. Remove from the oven. Allow to rest for 15 minutes. Slice and enjoy. Makes approximately 16 servings. Perfect for a Keto Easter Dinner!

5. Keto Lemon Bar “Fat-Bombs”

Gather 1 ounce of coconut butter, 1 ounce of coconut oil, 1 scoop Vanilla MCT Oil Powder, 1 ounce of unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon of keto sweetener, AND ½ cup lemon juice.

To make, mix coconut butter, coconut oil, MCT Oil Powder, unsalted butter, keto sweetener, and lemon juice into a bowl. Pour the mixture into a small saucepan over low heat. Heat until just melted, then remove from the heat. Then, pour mixture into 8×8 baking pan

Place in the fridge and chill for 1 hour, until set. Sprinkle your choice of extra keto sweetener on top for added embellishment — enjoy!

6. Keto Zone Lemon Berry Spritzer (Non-Alcoholic)

Gather 1/2 cup fresh raspberries, 1/2 cup low-carb sweetener, 1/4 cup water, 1/2 cup lemon juice (bottled or fresh), and sparkling mineral water.

First make the Keto Zone simple syrup: In a small saucepan, place raspberries, sweetener of choice, and water. Heat on high heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer, then mash berries using a potato masher. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat.

Using a fine-mesh sieve, strain liquid into a bowl or jar. Press as much liquid as you can out of the berries using the back of a spoon against the sieve. Discard any remaining berries or use them for another application. Add lemon juice to the berry mixture, stir to combine.

To serve, pour 2 tablespoons of this keto syrup into the bottom of a glass. Add ice, and pour sparkling water over the ice. Garnish with a lemon slice and/or fresh berries. Enjoy!

Bottom Line

There are endless possibilities for an easy, elegant Keto Easter Menu. We hope you enjoy the ones we’ve shared!

 

The post Easy Elegant Keto Easter Menu appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert.

Sneezing Much? Fix Sinus Issues & Allergies Today

After a long winter, it is such a relief to enter into Spring! A relief, that is, unless you don’t find any relief due to allergies and sinus issues. In fact, if this is the case for you, you may be dreaming of the cold, short days of winter without all the sneezing, dripping, and itching.

Don’t let the pollen get you down. Instead, you can fix sinus issues & allergies today! We have 10 all-natural, healthy strategies to cut down the pollen you experience, bolster your body’s defenses, and help you enjoy spring and summer more.

Ready?

10 All-Natural, Healthy Strategies to Fix Sinus Issues & Allergies Today1. Start with the Strongest Most-Effective Sinus Supplement Available

As a first defense, start supplementing with nutrients that specifically support sinus health.

Dr. Colbert has evaluated countless patients on sinus health for decades, and has designed this new, all-natural supplement to provide significant relief. Dr. Colbert has formulated a healthy sinus formula, in capsule form, to help you improve sinus health! It’s made with synergetic all-natural herbal and food-based ingredients that promote clear, healthy sinuses and mucus membranes!

Divine Health’s Healthy Sinus Formula is Soy Free, Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Non-GMO, and formulated to provide significant relief. This is a great first step to fix sinus issues.

2. Increase Omega-3s and Anti-Inflammatory Foods

To reduce whole body inflammation, take an omega-3 supplement daily, eat fatty fish, and consume anti-inflammatory foods regularly.

First, take an omega-3 supplement such as Dr. Colbert’s Wild Alaskan Salmon Omega-3 every day. If you’re able to also eat 12 oz. of fatty fish per week, that’s great.

Why?

Studies have shown that those with seasonal allergic reactions and asthmatic allergies actually have higher underlying inflammation even when they are not showing symptoms (2). These results have led experts to believe that reducing the underlying inflammation may improve asthmatic and allergic conditions. Of course, if you are “aspirin-sensitive” or on blood thinners, always talk to your doctor before starting or increasing fish oil.

In addition, make it a habit to eat several anti-inflammatory foods every day. This can include ginger, turmeric, spices, cinnamon, colorful vegetables, walnuts and seeds such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and hemp heart seeds.

2. Reduce processed foods with high omega-6 fats.

As an opposite action to increasing omega-3 fats, it’s crucial to reduce omega-6 fats found in processed foods.

Omega-3 and omega-6 fats are antagonists.

While omega-3 fats reduce inflammatory factors in the body, omega-6 fats increase their production.

It’s not enough to simply increase omega-3s…you must also decrease omega-6s.

The fastest and easiest way to do this? Look at every single item you buy with an ingredient label, and avoid all products with soybean oil. Then, take it a step further and avoid all those with high omega-6s.

The full list and steps can be found here.

3. Take care of your gut health with probiotics and fermented foods.

While it may seem odd that your gut has anything to do with sneezing and post-nasal drip, probiotics have been shown to help those with seasonal allergies.

In fact, one study of 173 people who suffer from seasonal allergies found that taking a daily probiotic with lactobacillus strains significantly improved their “quality of life” scores from baseline to peak pollen compared to a placebo group (3).

It is hypothesized that probiotics can improve the quality of life of seasonal allergy sufferers by increasing the percentage of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and improving allergen tolerance.

4. Take a daily dose of Raw Apple Cider Vinegar.

There are 2 ways raw apple cider vinegar can help:

In lab tests, scientists have found that the bacteria in raw vinegar can actually improve immune factors and protect from an allergic reaction (4).Apple cider vinegar is a natural decongestant, and it causes your sinuses to drain when you drink it. While the relief is temporary, it is effective and reduces the risk of clogged sinuses becoming infected.

What’s more, unlike medication decongestants, you are not at risk of rebound congestion, which can occur with long-term use of decongestants and results in worsening symptoms.

How should you take it? ALWAYS dilute apple cider vinegar. Taken straight, it can damage your esophagus.

Instead, mix 1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar, 4 oz. water, 1/2 tsp ginger, ½ tsp cinnamon, and stevia to taste. Take 2-3 times per day during allergy season.

5. Try all-natural nasal sprays.

At most stores and pharmacies, you can find nasal sprays with simple ingredients like baking soda, salt, and purified water.

These sprays flush out your nasal passages. When used a few times per day they can ease allergy symptoms, especially if you begin using it proactively before strong symptoms begin.

6. Keep your floors and counters as clean as possible.

Dust mites cause many allergy symptoms.

Dusting regularly, vacuuming and using a HEPA filter, and washing floors and surfaces regularly can help reduce seasonal allergies and symptoms.

7. Leave your shoes outside.

Shoes have a way of trapping pollen on them and then depositing it all over your floor surfaces if worn inside.

Instead, remove them at the door and leave them out.

8. Keep windows and doors closed.

Especially if you live in an area with high pollen counts, keep windows and doors closed.

Pollen blows around most in the Spring, and typically in the early hours of the day. Keep windows and doors closed to avoid pollen blowing inside.

Instead, use an air conditioner if it is too warm. Make sure to change the old filters as they will most likely be full of dust, pollen, and mold.

Installing an air purifier with a HEPA filter will also help to remove allergens from the interiors.

9. After being outside, take a quick shower and change your clothes.

Clothes and hair are pollen magnets, so take them off and rinse as soon as possible!

Instead of dragging the pollen inside and sitting it in, shower and change.

10. De-Pollinate before bed.

Consider showering before bed, changing pillowcases daily, and sheets regularly. If you go to bed with pollen in your hair, it can stay on your pillowcase for days. Then, you’re essentially sleeping in pollen!

Keep these soft surfaces as clear of pollen as possible to  get a good night sleep and wake up feeling better rather than worse.

Bottom Line

Pollen and other irritating substances are a part of life for most of us. You may not be able to completely eliminate them, but you can manage them better. Use our tips to fix sinus issues and allergies this spring.

The post Sneezing Much? Fix Sinus Issues & Allergies Today appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert.