Don Colbert's Blog, page 14

Less Stress & Better Health for Dads (Without Adding Work!)

This Father’s Day, you are likely thinking of your dad. Your love for him. Your hope that he is healthy and happy. You may even want to encourage less stress and better health for dads.

Sure, you could encourage the dads in your life to “get healthy.” You could suggest adding a ton of new activities in order to improve their lives. They could add hours of exercise, new meals and recipes, and more (these are all great!). However, if they are like most men, they are likely already doing a lot. They are busy, often stressed, and tired. But, what if you encouraged simple ideas and products that add to his health without adding work? Here are easy additions that support the best health for dads from head to toe…no extra work necessary.

Less Stress and the Best Health for Dads (without Adding Work)

To start, there’s one nutrition compound that can encourage the best health for dads from head to toe, all by itself. Any idea which one it is?

It’s krill oil!

Krill is a superior source of omega-3 fats that fights inflammation throughout the body. Like other omega-3 sources, krill oil can raise blood levels of healthy fats like DHA and EPA (1). When these increase in your blood, inflammatory markers decrease. 

But, what makes krill oil different is its superior absorption and natural antioxidants. First, krill oil is optimally absorbed during digestion and quickly affects both blood and brain levels of omega-3 fats (2). Next, krill oil naturally contains a healthful antioxidant called astaxanthin. Astaxanthin serves to both protect the krill oil itself (improving digestion and absorption) and encourage reduced oxidative stress in the body (3).

Once absorbed, krill oil supports better health for dad in the following areas.

Better Health for Dad through Krill OilTriglycerides and Heart Inflammation: If you want to support dad’s heart health and inflammatory factors, krill oil is a great place to start. One meta-analysis looked at the effects of krill oil on circulating fats in the blood. The researchers found that krill oil supplementation was associated with significantly lowered triglyceride levels. In addition, it encouraged healthy changes in LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol (4).Digestive Inflammation & Health: In studies, it’s been found that krill oil supports reduced gut inflammation by regulating a broad spectrum of inflammatory signaling pathways. In addition, krill oil promotes a healthier gut environment by fighting microbes that damage mucosa, and reduces inflammation markers (5).Weight Related Inflammation: Elevated weight negatively affects tissues and organs in a dad’s body. Inflammation is often elevated.  Long-term krill oil supplementation has been shown to increase anti-inflammatory markers in the liver, support metabolism and fat breakdown, and improve tissue health and inflammation (6).Bone and Joint Inflammation: Joint pain and stiffness is a problem for many adults. There is increasing evidence that it is affected by dietary fat intake. Studies have investigated the effects of dietary fats, including dietary omega-6 to omega-3 ratios, on joint health in humans and animals. Results reveal that a better omega-3 to omega-6 ratio from krill oil can significantly improve the cartilage structure and reduce losses. Further, this diet change can reduce inflammatory markers. What’s more, krill oil has specifically been shown to be more effective than plant-derived omega-3s in these studies (7).Neuroinflammation: Most neurodegenerative conditions demonstrate on-going inflammatory processes. Krill oil and marine-derived omega-3s have been studied for anti-inflammatory effects both systemically and in the brain specifically. Krill oil has been reported to encourage spatial memory and learning, attenuate memory loss, protect the brain, reduce inflammation markers, and reduce depression symptoms. For more on krill oil and brain health, click here (8).

The best krill oil on the market is available right here! Keto Zone Living Krill Oil supports health in all the above ways. Get some for dad today!

4 More Steps for Less Stress & Best Health for Dad (without Adding Work)1. Dads Need to De-Stress

It can take years to learn stress management. Or, dads can begin to fight stress today using an all-natural plant based product designed by Dr. Colbert. Hemp oil, specifically nano-particle oils like those in Dr. Colbert’s Nano-Science Hemp Oil, promotes health throughout the body’s systems.

It is a broad-spectrum hemp oil that is organically grown, vegan, and GMO-free. In terms of health, it have been shown to:

Support healthy, stable moods (9)Promote stress relief and normalized cortisol levelsSupport comfortable, healthy joints (10)Encourage healthy sleep habits (11)Promote healthy skin with fewer irregularities and blemishes (12)Support healthy brain and nervous system functions (13)Encourage healthy cardiovascular functions and normalized inflammatory actions (14)

No extra work for dad. Just better health and less stress in one simple step.

2. Dads Need More Sleep

We know, dads are busy. But, they can combat daily stress and improve mental health with one habit: more, or adequate, sleep. Dads should aim for at least 7-9 hours of good-quality sleep each night.

While adequate sleep is not always easy to get, it’s a critical health habit. The alternative, lack of sleep, can impair melatonin levels and cortisol, increase the risk of metabolic issues and weight gain, and generally deteriorate well-being. What’s more, high cortisol levels and stress can be caused by poor sleep or inadequate sleep (15).

Dads don’t need more work, they need more sleep!

3. Dads Could Use a Big Drink of Water

Another cause of unhealth, overwhelm and stress? Believe it or not, dehydration is linked to increased saliva and blood cortisol. Amazingly, multiple studies have found that dehydrated athletes have more circulating cortisol than hydrated ones (16).

Of course, water is a great choice for hydration. Dads can take it a step further and drink cortisol-reducing black and/or green tea. Tea is a health-promoting drink that you can use as a tool to combat stress daily. In studies, tea consumers reported a higher “sense of relaxation,” lower blood platelet activation, better heart health indicators, brain health, oral health, and a fiery metabolism (17).

Want even more nutrition and more flavor? Add lemons, cucumbers, or Organic Fermented Green Supremefood®.  Hydration is a great healthy habit for dads!

4. Prayer for and by Dads

Want full-body health: mind, soul, and body? Look no further than prayer.

No matter what dads are facing, the practice of daily gratitude and prayer can change everything. In fact, practicing gratitude has been proven to support decreased cortisol and stress levels.

Moreover, prayer is a wonderful gift for spiritual health. Prayer is thought to increase the secretion of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine. These compounds decrease cortisol while promoting relaxation, focus, and motivation.

What’s more, you can pray for Dads! Pray for their spiritual, mental, emotional physical strength as they face each day. Prayer is powerful for the one praying, and the one prayed for.

Bottom Line

It’s time for better health for dads! We’ve provided easy, no-work habits that can significantly improve health from head to toe. They target stress levels, heart health, bone health, brain health, and more. Encourage the dads in your life to take care of themselves with less, not more, work!

 

The post Less Stress & Better Health for Dads (Without Adding Work!) appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert.

Celebrate Summer with A Keto Arnold Palmer

Warm weather, longer days, fireworks, flowers and butterflies. There’s so much to celebrate about summer. Here’s another – June 10th is National Iced Tea Day, and we’re raising a glass of Keto Arnold Palmer. It’s delicious, refreshing, and full of nutrients that offer so much for your body.

Also, it’s simple. Just keto lemonade and tea. Raise your own glass of Keto Arnold Palmers to all the benefits (and to summer) today!

KETO ARNOLD PALMER RECIPE

First, make iced tea by boiling 64 ounces of water. Place placing 8 small black tea bags or 1/3 cup loose leaf tea in a pitcher. Once water is boiling, pour water over tea and allow to steep 5-8 minutes.  Or alternatively, make “sun tea” by adding tea and warm water to a large glass jar, and place it in the sun for 4-6 hours.

Next, make Keto Lemonade by mixing 1 cup fresh-squeezed (or bottled) lemon juice, 6 cups purified water, and 1-2 tsp pure liquid stevia (or to taste) together. Add lemon slices to mix. Then, pour over ice.

Keto Arnold Palmer: Mix 6 ounces Keto Lemonade with 6 ounces iced tea. Add ice and enjoy summer! In addition, you can boost the nutrition further with a scoop of Organic Fermented Supremefood.

Keto Zone Arnold Palmer Health Benefits

Where to start? Black tea is one of the healthiest drinks on Earth. Lemons (and lemon juice) also contain amazing nutrients. Together, this might be one of the healthiest drinks of summer.

Here are 10 ways our Keto Zone Arnold Palmer will nourish you.

1. Keto Arnold Palmer Supports the Immune System

Lemon juice is high in vitamin C. This water-soluble vitamin has been linked to immune health, and a reduction in inflammation and oxidative stress.

In fact, one review showed that adequate vitamin C could reduce the duration of common colds and respiratory infections (1).

2. Cellular Detox and Toxin Relief

Black tea offers cellular detoxifying benefits that protect cells from free radicals, and the damage they inflict on arteries and cells.

In fact, both green and black tea block DNA damage associated with tobacco and other toxic chemicals in studies (2).

3. Antioxidants Galore

As noted above, lemon juice contains Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant.

Lemons’ antioxidants neutralize harmful free radicals that are in the body due to environmental toxins, food toxins, and natural biochemical reactions. What’s more, antioxidants can help reduce plaques in arteries by preventing the oxidation of cholesterol.

In addition, every time you drink tea, you consume 10 times more polyphenols (antioxidants) than what’s found in most fruits or vegetables (3). You’re not off the hook for eating those vegetables, though, so don’t chuck your kale just yet. While tea is a very concentrated source of antioxidants, it contains different ones than fruits and vegetables.  So, mix it with Keto Lemonade for a Keto Zone Arnold Palmer and get antioxidants galore.

4. Encourages Heart Health

Tea can help you lower your risk of heart issues, certain cellular overgrowths, elevated blood pressure, and weight gain.  This is confirmed in both human population studies and lab studies with mice.

People groups that drink the most tea certainly have lesser amounts of these diseases, tea-drinking mice have less occurrence, and large meta-analysis studies have concluded that daily tea equals a lower risk of ischemic heart disease (4).

What’s more, studies have shown reduced blood pressure with increased intake of lemons (5).

5. Reduce Stress & Cortisol

One of our Keto Arnold Palmer’s best benefits is lower cortisol after stressful events.

Research has shown that black tea can actually help reduce the effects of daily life stresses by reducing cortisol.

One study included 75 healthy males who gave up their usual caffeinated beverages and were split into two groups. Next, one group consumed a flavored caffeinated black tea every day, which contained the beneficial components of black tea. The second drank a beverage that had the same level of caffeine, tasted the same, but did not contain any other active tea components.

The subjects were exposed to real-life-like stressful situations.

Researchers studied their stress hormones, blood pressure, heart rates and self-reported sense of stress.

The results?

Within 50 minutes after the stressors occurred, the real black tea drinking group experienced a significant reduction in cortisol levels in comparison to the fake black tea drinkers.

What’s more, the black tea consumers reported a higher “sense of relaxation.”

Lastly, these black tea drinks had lower blood platelet activation, lowering their risk of heart attack (6).

6. Healthy Weight

While green tea extract often makes the news for healthy weight changes, black tea can also help.

In research, scientists have found that overfed mice given black tea extracts halted the induced weight gain. They also increased a type of bacteria in the body that affects energy metabolism to improve weight loss (7).

In addition, you can support your metabolism with ice-cold Keto Arnold Palmers because your body has to burn calories to warm ice-cold drinks to body temperature!

7. Fights Cellular Overgrowth

There are more than 1000 scientific publications that detail tea and its effects in preventing cellular overgrowth.

The catechins and theaflavins of tea have been linked to the reduced risk of various types of overgrowths in humans, including skin, prostate, lung, and breast, in lab studies (8).

What’s more, lemons help too! In lab studies, lemon extract has destroyed cellular overgrowth in breast tissue. Other studies have confirmed this result in other body tissues and cells (9, 10).  It’s hypothesized that lemons’ compound hesperidin and d-limonene support healthy cells and fight overgrowth (11, 12).

8. Healthy, Youthful Skin

Lemon juice is a great healthy-aging drink option, and can actually improve skin health.

Again, it’s the antioxidants fighting free radicals. Free radical build-up can contribute to aging skin, which results in wrinkles, age spots, dryness, and loss of elasticity. Antioxidants, from the outside in, and inside out, may improve this condition (13).

In fact, studies have shown that those who suffer from severe acne often have a high level of oxidative stress in the body (14).

9. Supports Oral Health

Lemons also contain antibacterial compounds that can reduce putrefactive bacteria in both the intestines and the mouth. This can reduce bad breath and gastrointestinal distress.

What’s more, the citric acid in lemons can help bust up mucus. Many people suffer from mucus production that clogs their throats. Drinking Keto Zone Lemonade can help.

10. More Health Benefits

There are more benefits of tea, lemons and vitamin C.

First, Vitamin C from lemons can also:

Increase iron absorptionProtect memory and may reduce cognitive decline (15, 16)Reduce blood uric acid levels to help prevent gout (17, 18)If you suffer from nausea, whether from a physical condition, medications or otherwise, lemons can help. Amazingly, both the smell and taste of lemons can provide relief. Try cutting a lemon and smelling it when a wave of nausea comes on, placing lemon slices in simmering water to infiltrate a room with the scent of lemon, or drinking Fresh Keto Zone Lemonade.

As for black tea, researchers have found that daily consumption may reduce (19):

Risk of allergic reactionsArthritic symptomsBone lossElevated blood sugarsBrain decline

Not bad for a delicious, refreshing, summer drink!

Bottom Line

It’s summer. It’s National Iced Tea Day. What more do we need? Raise a glass of Keto Zone Arnold Palmer with us to both! Cheers!

The post Celebrate Summer with A Keto Arnold Palmer appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert.

10 Genius Hacks to Sneak in 20 Minutes of Outdoor Exercise

Feel too busy to get in a good workout most days? We feel it too. While outdoor exercise is extremely important, it also feels like one more thing we have to add to our already-too-busy lives.

Thankfully, we’ve got 10 genius hacks to help you! Not only can you pick just 4 of these to get in outdoor exercise, each of them is extremely beneficial to your health. Some of them will help you break up a sedentary workday. Others will help you get outside into natural light in the morning. Some will encourage high heart rates, and others flexibility.

Why add these exercise hacks?

Not only is exercise great for our muscles, hearts, and brains, outdoor-activity specifically has been shown to improve mood and depression (1). What’s more, if the sun is shining, your body will make Vitamin D, an immune-stimulating vitamin. The exercise itself also provides immune-enhancing benefits, so it’s a double shot of health for your body (2).

Ready to get going? Just choose 3 or 4 of these each day to get 20 minutes per day. You can stick with the same ones day after day, or mix it up. But, if you’re not already intentionally moving every day, this can help you get started (or add to what you’re already doing). You’ve got this!

10 Genius Hacks to Sneak in 20 Minutes of Outdoor Exercise1. Get a Jump Rope and Head Outside

Got 5 or 10 minutes in the morning? If so, get yourself out into the sunshine while it’s not too hot, and start jumping! Even 5 minutes of jump rope can get your heartrate up, give you as good a workout as running, plus work your abs and arms. 

If you haven’t jumped rope in a while, don’t worry if it feels impossible at first. It’s tough. But, keep trying. Before you know it, you’ll be able to put 100 jumps in a row without stopping. Also, you can mix it up! Try jumping on both feet together, running in place, one foot at a time, scissoring front to back, scissoring side to side, and more.

2. Walk Hills in Your Neighborhood or an Adjacent One

Are there hills in your neighborhood, an adjacent one, or on the way to work? If hills are readily available, walking or hiking them is an incredibly effective workout.

Not only does it provide cardiovascular benefits, but walking uphill strengthens muscles similar to resistance training. If you’ve got ten minutes, try walking up for 6 minutes, and return back in 4. This is a quick, powerful option!

3. High Intensity Intervals in Your Yard

Got 10 minutes when you return home? You can get a ton accomplished in 10 minutes with high intensity intervals. Try these outside in your yard or patio area:

Squat down and jump up, jumping jacks, lunges, push-ups, high-knee running in place, sit-ups, jumping up with knees to chest, front kicks, back kicks, and others. You can find many high interval workouts online or on apps. These moves are up to twice as effective as running in terms of calorie burn and cardiovascular benefits.

4. Dust off Your Bike

Got a bike? Get on it and head out! A 10-20 minute bike ride can clear your head, make you smile, work your whole-body, and get your heart rate up. You don’t have to have aspirations to be a great cyclist. You can ride around your neighborhood, on a bike path through a park, to and from work, and more. Cycling is a great way to add exercise and enjoy the outdoors.

5. Have Walking Meetings

If you have regular work calls or social calls (with your mom or daughter, perhaps), turn them into walking meetings! If you’re able, walk while you talk. Many of us spend 10 minutes or more on phone calls that could take place indoors or out. Take advantage of this time and work your body while you talk!

6. Make the Stroller Your New Workout Partner

If you’re a parent or grandparent, you can use a stroller to your advantage. Both you and your child can enjoy the sights and sounds of the outdoors when you go for a walk. What’s more, if you’re able to add uphill walking, you’ll get a great stroller workout. It can also be a wonderful time for talking to your child, counting stop signs, fire hydrants, mailboxes, and more.

7. Enjoy a Park or Open Space

Do you know of a beautiful park or open space in your town? Many of them have great walking trails or sidewalks. Whether you see geese, squirrels, kids, sunrises, or others on your walk, you will enjoy many benefits of being in a natural setting. Figure out how to fit this into your day, whether you choose one that’s in route to your work, errands, or other activities.

8. Walk Stairs at an Outdoor Stadium

Many towns and cities have outdoor stadiums, amphitheaters, or stairs that are available to public use. If you can find one, take advantage of it and walk up and down the stairs or bleachers. This will give you a chance of scenery and a change of pace!

9. Walk for Your Lunch and Breaks

Just like walking during your meetings, you can also walk outside during your breaks. As much as you can, reduce your daytime sitting by standing, or even better, walking. Not only will taking a short 5-10 walk break outside increase your alertness and focus, it supports cardiovascular health (3).

10. Lay Your Yoga Mat Down Outside

Did you know that flexibility is vital to overall health and cardiovascular health? Did you also know that adults naturally lose trunk flexibility every year they age unless they proactively work on it? It’s true! Combat inflexibility by focusing on stretching or yoga. Even better, do it outside while the sun comes up. Not only will this support your physical health, but getting natural light early in the morning supports your sleep-wake cycle. 

Bottom Line

Outdoor exercise is great for your mind, body, and soul. Choose to exercise with others, while talking on the phone, or by yourself. Add exercise during sunrise, during the day to break up sedentary hours, after dinner, or whenever you can. Most importantly, choose activities you enjoy. Make this summer your most active summer!

The post 10 Genius Hacks to Sneak in 20 Minutes of Outdoor Exercise appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert.

10 Reader Favorites: Refreshing Spring Keto Recipes

I’m ready. Ready to clean off the grill. Ready for fresh, delicious, vibrant spring foods. Are you? The fresh fruits and vegetables. The delicious and refreshing flavors of citrus. Thirst-quenching drinks. Amazing spring keto recipes and foods that inspire healthy eating, healthy living, and a Keto Zone® Lifestyle.

We’ve gone back into recent posts and archives posts to bring you 10 reader favorites. Here are your picks for Refreshing Spring Keto Recipes.

10 Reader Favorites: Refreshing Spring Keto Recipes1. Keto Zone® Sweet Tea

Let’s start it off with everyone’s favorites. Sweet teas goes back for generations in families, in the fridge, on the table, and especially on the porch.

Here’s how to make it: Place 8 small tea bags or 1/3 cup loose leaf tea in a large pitcher or jar. Add 64 oz. boiling-hot water. Allow to steep 5-8 minutes. Remove tea from water, add stevia (equivalent of 1-1.5 cups sugar), and mix until completely dissolved. Allow tea to cool, and then place in refrigerator until cold.

*Alternatively, make “sun tea” by placing tea and warm water in large glass jar, and placing in the sun for 4-6 hours. Remove tea, add stevia and refrigerate. For fun, you can also add in fresh minced ginger root, fresh minced turmeric root, cinnamon sticks, lemon slices, or Fermented Green Supremefood.

Nutrition info per 8 oz.: 0 calories, 0 gm fat, 0 gm net carbs, 0 gm protein

2. Fresh Keto Rhubarb and Strawberry Crisp

From sweet tea, let’s go to everyone’s favorite spring keto recipe for dessert.

Our Fresh Keto Zone® Keto Rhubarb and Strawberry Crisp boasts health-boosting, high-antioxidant fruits and delicious flavors. What’s more, it only contains 4 grams net carbs per serving!

This one’s so good, you’ll definitely want to bring it to your next spring gathering.

3. Keto Zone Spring Rolls

What about dinner? Okay, spring is not all about refreshing drinks and desserts. We need dinner, too.

Try our Keto Zone Spring Rolls! These easy-to-make spring rolls are chock-full of healthful ingredients and just 8 grams net carbs per serving. They also provide 30 grams protein!

4. Keto Zone® Frozen Whipped LemonadeBack to a drink that’s also a dessert. If you haven’t tried our Keto Zone® Frozen Whipped Lemonade, give it a go today and you’ll soon find why it’s a reader favorite.Here’s how to make it:

Combine 1/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice, 3/4 cup water, 1/4 teaspoon pure liquid stevia (to taste), 1/2 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat, shake well before pouring), 2 scoops Keto Zone® MCT Oil Powder (Coconut Cream OR Unflavored), and 4 cups ice all ingredients except lemon slices in a blender and blend until smooth and creamy. If desired, add more ice to thicken. Pour into glasses, garnish with a lemon slices, and enjoy!

If you’d like to add in more fun, try adding 1-2 teaspoons fresh chopped ginger, 1/4 cup mint leaves, 1/4 cup basil leaves, or 1 cup cucumber slices before blending. Delish!

Nutrition info: 35 calories, 3.5 grams fat, 0 grams net carbs, (3 grams carbs, 3 grams fiber), 0 grams protein

5. Easy Keto Zone® Pesto

Of course, it’s always smart to have healthy Keto Zone® sauces ready for keto spring flavors. Here’s an all-time favorite.

Keto Zone® Pesto: Place 2 cups packed fresh basil leaves (or spinach leaves), 2 cloves garlic, ¼ cup pine nuts, and 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice in a food processor or blender. Process until  coarsely chopped. Add 2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil. Process until fully incorporated and smooth. If desired, add salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, add in 1/3 cup shredded parmesan and mix thoroughly.

6. Energizing Basil Smoothie

Why not add an energizing smoothie to your day? Yes, please!

Here’s how to make an Energizing Basil Smoothie: Place 8 ounces brewed green tea OR 1/2 teaspoon matcha green tea powder, 1/2 cup coconut milk (canned, full fat), 1/2-1 cup fresh basil leaves, 1 lemon, zested & juiced, 1/4 cup blueberries (or any kind berries), 1 scoop Keto Zone ®Hydrolyzed Collagen, 1 scoop Divine Health® Green Fermented Supremefood, and water or ice (as needed for desired consistency) in a blender. Process until smooth.  Enjoy the energy!

7. Keto Zone Kale Pomegranate Salad

Of course, salads are the stuff of spring!

Keto Zone® Kale Pomegranate Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine 2 cups chopped kale, 1/2 cups chopped roasted almonds, 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds, and and 8 ounces organic pitted olives. In a separate bowl combine 1/2 cup olive oil, 3 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon sea salt, and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk oil mixture until thoroughly combined. Pour oil mixture over the salad mixture. Toss salad until kale is coated with dressing. Serve and enjoy!

8. Keto Zone Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon

Bust out, shovel off, and prepare your grill! Keto Zone® Cedar Plank Salmon is a delicious keto spring recipe that has readers coming back for more and more.

It may be the best salmon you’ve ever tasted, and it’s full of healthy fats and nutrients. Fire up your grill tonight!

9. Keto Zone® Fat Bomb Lemon Bars

Of course, it’s a great idea for anyone in the Keto Zone® to have good fat bombs ready to go. When it comes to refreshing flavors, make sure your fat bombs include lemon!

The fat bombs are easy to make. Here’s how:

Mix 1 ounce coconut butter, 1 ounce coconut oil, 1 scoop Vanilla MCT Oil Powder, 1 ounce unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon equivalent keto sweetener (xylitol, monk fruit, stevia), and 1/2 cup lemon juice into a bowl. Pour 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!

Nutrition Info (16 servings): 281 calories, 20 grams fat, 2 grams carbs, 0.1 grams protein

(Recipe adapted from My Keto Kitchen)

10. Keto Zone Berries and Cream

Last but not least, it just doesn’t get better than Keto Zone® Berries and Cream!

Here’s how: Place 8 ounces mascarpone cheese (cream cheese is an optional substitute), 1 cup whipping cream, and 1/2 teaspoon stevia drops (vanilla stevia optional) in a large, chilled, metal bowl. Using an electric mixer on high speed, whip ingredients together until combined and thick. To serve, place a small number of berries in the bottom of glass or bowl (about 2 tablespoons). Add cream. Then, top with remaining 2 tablespoons berries (just 1/4 cup berries per serving). Note: For a beautiful presentation, scoop the mixed cream into a piping bag (or large baggie). Pipe cream over berries. If using a baggie, snip off a small portion of the corner of bag with scissors, and pipe through the opening.

Nutrition info (serves 12): 165 calories, 16 grams fat, 3 grams net carbs, 2 grams protein (87% fat)

Bottom Line

There’s no shortage of delicious, refreshing keto spring recipes! Here are 10 reader favorites to start. Dust off the grill, get yourself some fresh fruits and vegetables, and enjoy the flavors of Spring!

 

The post 10 Reader Favorites: Refreshing Spring Keto Recipes appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert.

7 Ways Moms Can Feel Energized (Without Lifting a Finger)

Are you a mom, or know a mom, who feels less-than-energized? Less-than-peaceful? If so, you’ve probably searched, brainstormed, and asked others how you can increase your energy and peace. Unfortunately, the answers were likely just another to-do list to add to your busy schedule. Want to feel energized and peaceful without lifting a finger?

Here’s the thing: moms have a lot of stress. They lift a lot of fingers. High levels of mental stress can be devastating to a mom’s brain, health, relationships, immune system, and energy levels. Quite literally, it zaps her.

Ready to stop the energy-zapping cycle? Today, we’ve got a list to help moms without adding more stress and activities. Sure, a couple take a few minutes to order, but otherwise, we’re here to help you de-stress, get more rest, and feel energized and youthful. Ready? 

7 Ways Mom’s Can Feel Energized and Peaceful 1. Support Your Hormones

Throughout a mom’s life, her hormones increase, decrease, and change. Hormones are vitality important to health, energy, metabolism, and feelings of calm  (1, 2, 3). Fortunately, Dr. Colbert has designed 2 supplements to support women’s hormones.

First, Keto Zone® Hormone Zone contains Diindolylmethane (DIM), Vitamin D3, and Vitamin K2. Together these nutrients support balanced hormones throughout a woman’s life while also promoting bone health, heart health, and whole-body health (4).

Next, there’s Keto Zone® Thyroid Zone. This supplement specifically supports the thyroid by providing a variety of minerals and nutrients that promote healthy thyroid function.  In fact, it contains natural iodine, selenium, zinc, copper, vitamins A, D, and B12, Ashwagandha extract, Guggul extract, Coleus Forskohlii, L-Tyrosine, Schizandra, Kelp, Bladderwrack, and Cayenne – important minerals and nutrients for thyroid health (5). These nutrients are important for whole-body health and may improve the symptoms of hypothyroidism.

2. Fight Stress

Amazingly, you can fight stress using an all-natural plant based product designed by Dr. Colbert. It’s true! Hemp oil, specifically nano-particle oils like those in Dr. Colbert’s Nano-Science Hemp Oil, promotes health across the body’s systems. 

It is a broad-spectrum hemp oil that is organically grown, vegan, and GMO-free. In terms of health, it have been shown to:

Support healthy, stable moods (6)Promote stress relief and normalized cortisol levelsSupport comfortable, healthy joints (7)Encourage healthy sleep habits (8)Promote healthy skin with fewer irregularities and blemishes (9)Support healthy brain and nervous system functions (10) Encourage healthy cardiovascular functions and normalized inflammatory actions (11)

This can be a great product for moms who want to feel energized and peaceful, without lifting a finger.

3. Do Something You Truly Enjoy Every Day

This may seem like you’re about to lift a finger. However, make this one exactly what you want! Want to go for a walk each day? Do it!

Talk to your best friend for 10 minutes – schedule it!

Just lay down and close your eyes? Figure out how to add this in.

You can listen to a podcast, watch a quick show, sit on a bench outside, listen to comedy, anything! 

In fact, doing something that puts a smile on your face, or helps you laugh, is amazing for your health, stress, and energy. 

In fact, laughter is considered a scientific, effective, non-invasive therapy for improved mental health and mood. Laughter alters dopamine and serotonin activity, and causes an increase in endorphins. These chemicals decrease discomfort, cortisol (12), and depressed moods (13).

Don’t lift a finger, but make sure to do something that makes you smile or laugh every day.

4. Sleep More to Feel Energized

Moms, listen up. You can combat daily stress and improve mental health with one habit: adequate sleep. In fact, moms should all aim for 7-9 hours of good-quality sleep each night. 

While adequate sleep is not always easy or even feasible (those newborn years make it tough), it’s a crucial health habit. The alternative, lack of sleep, can impair melatonin levels and cortisol, increase the risk of metabolic issues and weight gain, and generally deteriorate well-being.

What’s more, an overload of stress can be the cause of poor sleep (14), making the sleep-stress cycle a potential threat to health.  

Moms, don’t lift a finger. Instead, go to sleep early (families, make this possible for her!).

5. Hydrate with a Drink You Like

Did you know that dehydration can increase cortisol and stress? Dehydration is linked to increased saliva and blood cortisol. Amazingly, multiple studies have found that dehydrated athletes have more circulating cortisol than hydrated ones (15).

Of course, water is a great choice for hydration. But, you can take it a step further and drink cortisol-reducing black and/or green tea. Tea is a health-promoting drink that you can use as a tool to combat stress daily. In studies, tea consumers reported a higher “sense of relaxation,” lower blood platelet activation, better heart health indicators, brain health, oral health, and a fiery metabolism (16).

Want to add flavor? Add lemons, cucumbers, or Organic Fermented Green Supremefood®.  Hydration is a calming way to feel energized!

6. Do Less

Say it with me, moms: “No, unfortunately I/we cannot fit that into my schedule.”

Some stress is self-induced. Sometimes, we say “yes” to too many activities. Sometimes, we are required to live within a busy schedule.

But, as much as it’s dependent on you, clear your schedule to combat daily stress. It’s okay to spend time at home with little to do. It’s okay to allow kids to play without a “formal class or structure.” It’s okay to say “no” without even having a good reason other than giving yourself a break. Do less by clearing the calendar and lift less fingers.

7. Pray

Here’s the most important way to feel energized.

No matter the stress you’re facing, the practice of daily gratitude and prayer can change everything. In fact, practicing gratitude has been proven to support decreased cortisol and stress levels.

Moreover, prayer is a wonderful gift for spiritual health. Prayer is thought to increase the secretion of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine. These compounds decrease cortisol while promoting relaxation, focus, and motivation.

Of course, for Believers, prayer and gratitude to God goes beyond mental health. Our spiritual health is the foundation of everything else!  Don’t lift a finger, but do lift up your prayers!

Bottom Line

Moms, you can feel energized and peaceful without lifting a finger. Try our 7 strategies. We are confident you don’t need to do more (you do enough). In fact, do less. Take a deep breath and be present, feel energized, and experience all the peace God has for you today.

The post 7 Ways Moms Can Feel Energized (Without Lifting a Finger) appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert.

Next Level Keto Tacos & Mocktails

Whether it’s for Cinco de Mayo, or just any ordinary Taco Tuesday, it’s time to take your keto tacos and drinks to the next level. It’s easy, nourishing, and delicious!

From your keto taco shells to toppings to spices, you can add antioxidants, phytochemicals, healthy fats and more while staying in the Keto Zone. Here’s our favorite 3 ways to take your keto tacos to the next level, plus how to make a delicious Keto Margarita Mocktail!

Next Level Keto Tacos: 3 Ways1. Make Your Shells DeliciousWhen it comes to keto taco shells, you’ve got a choice: Bland and boring, or avocado-oil fried and delicious!To take yours to the next level, start with either a store-bought or homemade low-carb keto tortilla.Then, pour 1″-worth of avocado oil into a small or medium skillet (a 6″ one works well). Heat the oil on medium-high heat. Once oil seems hot, pinch off a tiny piece of a tortilla and place oil. If it stays on top and sizzles, you’re good to go.Once the oil is hot, place the tortilla in the oil. Allow to cook for about 30-45 seconds, or until crispy on one side. Then, flip the tortilla over. Fry for about 15-30 seconds until crispy. Using tongs, fold the tortilla in half to form a shell. Remove from the oil and place the tortilla on a plate covered in paper towels. Next, turn the heat down to medium. Repeat the above with remaining tortillas.Notes:  You may want to cover your hand/arm with an oven mit to avoid hot oil splatter on your arm. Also, you cannot step away during this process. This is full-on 100%-attention and focus for 5 minutes.Alternatively, brush each keto tortilla with avocado oil. Then, air fry in your air fryer. Enjoy!2. Season With Nourishing Spices Rather than Toxic Chemicals

Unfortunately, many commercial tacos spice mixes are full of toxic chemicals (1) that have no place in delicious Keto Tacos.

This is really too bad. Spices are one of the earth’s most potent sources of nutrients, antioxidants, phytochemicals, anti-inflammatory compounds, and more. So, let’s use healthy ones instead!

To make our flavorful, authentic Keto Taco Seasoning, simply use the recipe found here.

3. Step Up Your ToppingsOne great thing about making keto tacos is the basic fillings are typically keto friendly. Most tacos have  main filling ingredients like fish, shrimp, beef, or pork. This is a great start for those in the Keto Zone.From there, you can make a next level keto taco by adding flavorful, colorful, nourishing, delicious toppings. Here are our 3 favorites:Keto Zone Guacamole: First and foremost, don’t leave out the guacamole! Keto guacamole is not only delicious, but full of amazing nutrients that nourish your body from head to toe (2). Here’s how to make it and why you should eat more avocados and guacamole.Lime Chili Red Cabbage: First, chop 1/4 of a red cabbage into small pieces, about 1.5-2 cups chopped. Add 2-3 tablespoons avocado mayo, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 2 tablespoons lime juice. Mix well. Add salt and pepper to taste.Keto Chimichurri: Mix 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1/2 cup finely chopped parsley, 3-4 cloves garlic (finely chopped or minced), 2 small red chilies (deseeded and finely chopped), 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 level teaspoon coarse salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Allow to set for 10 at least minutes before serving.BONUS: Delicious Keto Margarita Mocktail (no alcohol)

Ingredients:

1 freshly squeezed lime juice (medium to large size)1 tsp liquid stevia1/2 cup of sparkling water2 drops orange extractIce

Instructions:

Rim your 8-ounce glass with a small amount of salt by running a lime wedge around the edge of the glass and then dipping it in some salt. This is worth the effort!Next, take the salt-rimmed glass and add in a few ice cubes. Then, pour in the lime juice, liquid stevia, and orange extract. Stir well.Add sparkling water and top the glass until it’s full. Garnish with a lime wedge. Serve immediately.

Nutrition info per entire recipe: 23 calories, 0 grams fat, 1 grams net carbohydrates (5.7 grams carbohydrates, 4.5 grams fiber), 0 grams protein

Bottom Line

Bland and boring? No way! Try our keto taco tips and keto margarita mocktail this week. Beyond Keto eating is fun, nourishing, and delicious!

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10 Dangerous Ingredients in Supplements. Buyer Beware

For many people, supplements are a necessary addition to a healthy diet. They can deliver key nutrients, even in therapeutic amounts, to support whole-body and system-specific health. For example, most people have a very difficult time getting enough omega-3 fats for a healthy omega-6 to omega-3 ratio without supplements. But, this doesn’t mean you should blindly buy any supplement. Buyer beware: There are often dangerous ingredients in supplements.

Sometimes, the dangerous ingredients are easy to spot. Other times, they are listed within words or other ingredients that make them difficult to identify. Or, they are hidden additives you’d never suspect.

Luckily, you’ve got a trusted source of supplements in Divine Health. Divine Health supplements never contain these dangerous ingredients, are safe and effective, and are formulated to contain the most beneficial nutrients in highly absorbable forms without extra additives you don’t need.  

No matter what you’re buying, it’s vital to buy from a source you can trust, and always check the ingredient list. Here’s our guide, and a list of 10 dangerous ingredients in supplements you should avoid.

Supplement Claims, Confusion, and Data

Like most food packaging, supplements often have confusing labels. On the front, you’ll find marketing. Unless it’s a strict health claim, it’s not well regulated.

As the consumer, it’s up to you to investigate beyond these claims.

To start, follow the #1 rule for food packaging: Ignore everything you read on the front side of the packaging. Some statements are completely trustworthy. Some may not be.

Then, go to the ingredients list. Although there is still some ambiguity here, it’s your best place for finding dangerous ingredients in supplements since they are typically additives and thickening agents rather than nutrients. This is very important data.

Next, look at the nutrition label. Nutrition labels on supplements can be a bit different than those on foods. On food labels, the nutrition label shows you the macro- and micro-nutrients in the foods, but not the ingredients themselves. However, on supplement nutrition labels, the nutrients are the ingredients. Therefore, you will often find both ingredients (listed as micronutrients) and their amounts, on the nutrition label. This is also important data. 

How Can Dangerous Ingredients in Supplements Cause Harm?

There are a few ways dangerous ingredients can cause harm. These include:

Ingredients that cause direct harm or inflammation to the digestive system. Here’s one example of a common over-the-counter medication that causes this type of harm.Ingredients that are suspected carcinogens. Some ingredients in supplements, medications, and manufactured foods are suspected to cause cellular changes, overgrowth, and potentially carcinogenic activity.Ingredients that are not listed, but can be contained within other ingredients, and potentially cause harm. For example, some natural substances contain very high levels of lead or mercury. It’s vital to buy your supplements from a trustworthy source that has been tested for toxins.Ingredients that do not contain as much of a nutrient as they claim, or more of a nutrient than they claim. While this doesn’t seem like a direct harm, if you believe you’re getting 2000 IU of Vitamin D, but are actually only getting 200 IU, or are getting 20,000 IU unknowingly, there is potential for harm. Furthermore, if the nutrient is in a form that’s not absorbable to the human body, you may think you’re getting a healthy supplement, but in reality you’re throwing money away.

As you consider this, here are 10 dangerous ingredients in supplements to avoid.

10 Dangerous Ingredients in Supplements

Soybean Oil: As we’ve discussed at length, soybean oil is a potent source of processed omega-6 fats. Omega-6 oils actually work against omega-3 oils, and are associated with declines in metabolic health, cardiovascular health, and increased inflammation (1, 2, 3).

Aspartame and Saccharin: Man-made artificial sweeteners have been widely used in “diet foods” and “health foods.” Unfortunately, they can have negative effects on gut bacteria. In fact, animal and human studies have shown that aspartame, saccharin, sucralose, and other artificial sweeteners can impair gut bacteria (4).

In fact, there is documentation of (5):

Saccharin reducing healthy bacteria growth by 40%Sucralose decreasing bacteria by more than 2-foldAspartame increasing the number of harmful bacteria by 10%

Other sugar substitutes, such as the sugar alcohol xylitol, does not seem to affect gut bacteria (6). A good supplement should promote health in your body, including your gut.

Fake Flavorings and Colorings: Food dyes are not benign and have no place in a healthy supplement. Several studies have found that food dyes exacerbate hyperactivity in sensitive children (7). While you may be an adult, this finding confirms that food dyes make their way into our systems and can affect our bodies.

What’s more, Red 3 is a dye that was banned in the 1990s, and then had the ban retracted. Lab studies have shown tumor concerns with Red 3, and many people anecdotal report intolerances for it (8, 9).

Titanium Dioxide: Titanium Dioxide is a toxic additive is a colorant used to make tablets and capsules bright white and is typically used in paint, cosmetics, paper, and sunscreen. This filler has no nutritional value and can actually cause inflammation in the respiratory, digestive, and immune systems (10).

Sodium Benzoate: Sodium Benzoate is used to prolong the life of supplements. This preservative may become a carcinogen substance known as benzene when mixed with vitamin C (11). Ingesting foods or beverages containing that lead to high levels of systemic benzene can cause issues such as stomach irritation, tiredness, dizziness, and even vomiting and convulsions (12). Moreover, sodium benzoate itself has been linked with migraines (13), and it can increase oxidative stress in the body (14).

Sodium Ascorbate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Cornstarch: Unless it says differently on the label, these ingredients are typically made from genetically modified (GMO) corn. GMO corn is heavily exposed to harmful pesticides which are linked tonegative impacts on human health (15,16,17).

Potassium Sorbate: Potassium Sorbate is another additive used to preserve food and supplements. It may lead to migraines and allergic reactions in sensitive people.

Sulfites: Sulfites can be especially harmful for those who suffer from asthma, causing an increase in symptoms. They may also cause migraines when consumed (18).

Carrageenan: Carrageenan is a natural thickening agent found in many foods and supplements. Unfortunately, it has been linked to blood glucose issues (19),  and harmful gastrointestinal effects (20). 

Added and Hidden Sugars: Supplements that are in a liquid, powdered, chewable, or gummy form often have added or hidden sugars. These sugars can cause blood glucose issues in some people, and if you’re in the Keto Zone, they can kick you right out. What’s more, many of these sugars will be in liquid or gel form, such as high fructose corn syrup, rice syrup, or cane sugar syrup, and travel through the digestive system and into the bloodstream quickly. 

High sugar intake is linked to poor health, inflammation, cardiovascular disease, and more. It’s associated with brain aging, and may even be linked to degenerative diseases (21). Let’s keep sugar out of healthy supplements!

BOTTOM LINE

It’s important to find supplements you can trust. If you haven’t already, take a look at Divine Health’s amazing line-up of supplements including Brain Zone, Nano-Particle Hemp Oil, Carb Assist, and more. And we invite you: Take a hard look at the ingredients. You won’t find harmful colorings, chemicals, additives, or fillers. You’ll only find what’s necessary and industry-best ingredients. You can always trust Divine Health supplements. Buyer beware: Always check for dangerous ingredients in your supplements!

The post 10 Dangerous Ingredients in Supplements. Buyer Beware appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert.

Blood Sugars Out of Control? Here’s What to Do Today.

Did you know that approximately 50% of American adults live with high or unhealthy blood sugars? This is according to a 2020 report by the Center of Disease Controls (1). This means that over 129 million American adults are at increased health risk due to unhealthy blood sugars.

And what’s more, this means they are at risk of loss of healthy circulation, artery elasticity, vision, kidney function, healthy cognitive function, and even life (2).

This is a dire situation.

Thankfully, there are also solutions. Here are 5 easy steps you can take today to support healthy blood sugars, whole-body health, and your wellbeing. Don’t wait. Take care of this today.

5 Easy Steps to Healthy Blood Sugars Today1. Add Divine Health Carb Assist Every Day

Divine Health Carb Assist is a new and effective supplement made with all-natural ingredients that support healthy blood sugars by improving carbohydrate metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and the health of cells. It includes:

Biotin: Biotin is a B-Vitamin that has been long-known to promote blood glucose optimization and regulation. Biotin’s mechanism may be supporting a gene in glucose metabolism and reducing the amount of glucose that’s sent to the blood naturally (3).

Chromium: Chromium is an essential mineral for carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. Chromium supplements have been found to significantly improve blood sugar control, insulin response, triglyceride levels, and cholesterol (4).

Alpha Lipoic Acid: Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) is an antioxidant that has been well-studied to support healthy blood sugars and possibly nerve health (5).

Berberine HCl: Berberine is a bioactive plant-derived compound. Berberine HCL supports overall health; specifically, it supported renal health, optimal blood sugars, and reduced inflammation in recent studies. What’s more, it’s been shown to encourage healthy blood sugars by increasing insulin sensitivity, promoting insulin production, regulating metabolism, and more (6).

Ceylon Cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) Extract: Ceylon Cinnamon is a medicinal spice that has been used to combat health ailments for centuries. Studies have found it supports healthy blood pressure, glycemic control, and healthy lipid levels (7).

Vanadyl Sulfate (60 mg): Vanadyl Sulfate is a dietary compound consisting of vanadium ( a naturally-occurring element), oxygen, and sulfur. It supports healthy insulin sensitivity in adults with high blood sugars. What’s more, it may improve insulin signaling and encourage the reversal of degenerative damage to kidneys according to animal studies (8).

This is an easy step. Get Divine Health Carb Assist and start taking it each day.

2. Get Into the Beyond Keto Zone to Stop Unhealthy Blood Sugars

Why start a Beyond Keto lifestyle? It is your best eating lifestyle for a healthy weight, healthy blood sugars, and optimal heart, brain, and digestive health.

First, it promotes a healthy weight from the start. It will get you into the Keto Zone and promote efficient changes in weight and improved blood sugars. This phase will produce great results for weight loss, optimal blood sugars, less hunger, and a “reset” for eating (9).

Then, the Mediterranean diet allows for continual healthy-eating success, whole body health, better digestion, and a lifestyle of great health outcomes and enables one to live a long, healthy life. It’s highly anti-inflammatory. Inflammation is at the heart of many negative health issues, and any healthy diet should aim to reduce it while achieving long term health goals (10).

Altogether, Beyond Keto promotes healthy weight changes and outcomes as soon as the first two weeks (11)!

Get Started with Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto Today.

3. Get Moving, Get Outside & Build Muscle

You don’t have to become a super-athlete. But, you do have to get moving more!

There are many benefits to staying active, getting more flexible, building muscle and being outside.

Here’s how each helps your blood sugars (12):

Get Outside for Activity: When you’re active outside, your stress levels and blood sugars will optimize. 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 your weight, blood sugars, and brain.Stay Active: A brisk walk, hike, or other activity that increases your heart rate is brain- and blood sugar-healthy! The more you do to increase heartrate and blood flow, the better your blood sugars will respond.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 directly correlates with healthy blood pressure. These improvements are good for blood sugars and overall health!Build Muscle: You can build muscle by carrying weights, hiking uphill, or adding an easy weight routine. The more you build muscle, you’ll support healthy blood sugars, healthy metabolism, and healthy weight!4. Add Intermittent Fasting

One reason intermittent fasting is such a powerful tool is that it can reduce cravings and fight unhealthy blood sugars.

It sounds crazy that fasting would actually reduce hunger.

But, it works. When done regularly, such as from 7 pm to 11 am each day, most Keto Zone eaters experience fewer sugar cravings on keto, less hunger (13), more satisfaction, and better weight results. Fasting can increase insulin sensitivity, promote healthy weight, decrease inflammation, increase mental clarity, normalize levels of the “hunger hormone” ghrelin, and even regenerate the immune system (14). All of this is good for the body, blood sugars, and the brain.

During the intermittent fasting time, you can wake up and have Keto Zone coffee with butter, Keto Zone MCT Oil Powder, and Keto Zone Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder.

Then, once you reach 11 am, eat 2 Beyond Keto Zone meals and 2 Beyond Keto Zone snacks. Eat enough to dispel hunger and cravings. Also, drink adequate amounts of fluid.

Want to learn more? Check out Dr. Colbert’s Fasting Zone.

5. Add Fiber Every Day

Fiber is an incredible tool to help you support healthy blood sugars. There are 2 types of dietary fiber, insoluble and soluble fiber. While both are important, soluble fiber has explicitly been shown to improve blood sugar management (15). Insoluble fiber is good for keeping your intestines strong.

In fact, adding soluble fiber supports your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar and minimize blood sugar highs and lows. (16).

The easiest way to add soluble fiber each day? In addition to vegetables, add Divine Health Fiber Zone.

Bottom Line

As a society, we’ve got a big problem with unhealthy blood sugars, obesity, and overall health. But, we’ve also got solutions. Really, it’s just a matter of action. Begin by prioritizing your health and taking these proven steps to support healthy blood sugars. Are you ready to start today?

The post Blood Sugars Out of Control? Here’s What to Do Today. appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert.

We Can Decrease Risk of Cognitive Decline with One Step

It’s unfortunate. But as a society, the truth is we are not healthy. In fact, one of four American adults is now considered obese (1). An even high rate of adults are considered overweight. Many adults who are overweight or obese also suffer from chronic medical issues such as blood sugar abnormalities, unhealthy heart conditions, cognitive decline, and more.

This is dire. But, what does obesity have to do with risk of cognitive decline?

The Science: Obesity is Linked to Cognitive Decline

Here are some startling facts and studies that link obesity with cognitive decline:

Obesity doubles the risk of specific cognitive decline conditions, and obesity in midlife predicts greater risk of decline in later life (2 , 3)Postmortem studies have shown that elderly people with morbid obesity had increased concentration of hippocampal markers associated with cognitive decline (β-amyloid and tau proteins) and decreased hippocampal volume (4)BMI alone is a predictor for temporal lobe atrophy, and there is evidence that obesity increases the risk of mild cognitive decline independent of age (5, 6, 7)Using imaging to measure gray and white matter volume of elderly subjects with normal cognition, it’s been found that those with increased BMI, hyperinsulinemia, and type 2 diabetes had more atrophy in the frontal, temporal and subcortical brain regions. These areas are known to be involved in learning and memory (8)

Animal models also provide evidence that obesity and cognitive impairment are associated. Animals fed diets to induce obesity have impairments in hippocampal structure and function and also memory and executive function deficits (10). 

The one step? We must work towards healthy weights like our brains depend on it.

There is Good News

Here’s the good news: losing weight, then obtaining and maintaining a healthy weight can all support cognitive function. In randomized, double-blind studies, elderly patients with MCI and obesity showed improved verbal memory, verbal fluency, executive function, and global cognition after a calorie-restricted diet (11).

While this is simple, it’s not always easy.

To support cognitive health and reduce risk, it is imperative to work towards and maintain a healthy weight if you are overweight or obese.

The Best Way to a Healthy Weight

It’s time to live the Beyond Keto lifestyle! It combines the best of the Keto Zone lifestyle with the health-boost from the Mediterranean Diet.

Best of all, it promotes a healthy weight from the start.

First, getting into the Keto Zone promotes efficient changes in weight and improved blood sugars. This phase will produce great results for weight loss, optimal blood sugars, less hunger, and a “reset” for eating (12). For anyone who’s struggled with eating the same unhealthy foods for years, a dramatic change is often the “shake-up” they need to see results. This is part one.

Then, the Mediterranean diet allows for continual healthy-eating success, whole body health, better digestion, and a lifestyle of great health outcomes and enables one to live a long, healthy life. It’s highly anti-inflammatory. Inflammation is at the heart of many negative health issues, and any healthy diet should aim to reduce it while achieving long term health goals (13).

What’s more, the Mediterranean Diet has been proven over centuries to support full body health. It’s especially beneficial for heart health, optimal blood sugars, gut microbiota, and metabolism (13) because it is based on healthy fats such as extra virgin olive oil and seafood. In addition, it’s full of colorful plant foods like vegetables, beans, peas, lentils, salads and healthy, low- sugared fruits.

Altogether, Beyond Keto promotes healthy weight changes and outcomes as soon as the first two weeks (15)! In addition, the Mediterranean diet component continues to support healthy weight and healthy body composition. Its focus on lean proteins, seafoods, healthy oils, beans, legumes, nuts, seeds, and vegetables provide a wonderful well-balanced, satisfying dietary lifestyle to maintain a healthy weight (16).

Get Started with Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto Today.

Then, take it one more step and proactively support cognitive health.

Don’t Stop There. Support Cognitive Health with Brain Zone

Why stop with just reducing your risk when you could actually support brain function?!?

Specific nutrients can support your brain’s performance, focus, health, and longevity. In fact, these nutrients do so directly (working directly on neurotransmitters, etc.) and indirectly (reducing inflammation throughout the body and in the brain.

Fortunately, there’s a new line of nutrient-packed supplements that encourage your best brain health, in a convenient daily dose. They include:

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 (17, 18).  

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 (19, 20).

Dr. Colbert’s 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 (21, 22, 23)!

Bottom Line

It’s just one step to decrease your risk. Or, if you’re ready, try our 1-2 punch for both reduced risk and healthy brain function. There’s so much potential to support brain health. Take charge with Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto and Dr. Colbert’s Brain Zone today!

The post We Can Decrease Risk of Cognitive Decline with One Step appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert.

Why Eggs on Easter? Plus 5 Delish Ways You’ve NEVER Tried Deviled Eggs

You’re likely preparing to celebrate this week. Have you ever wondered: What’s with the eggs on Easter? How did the tradition of dying, serving, and even hiding eggs become a part of the Christian Holiday which celebrates the resurrections of Christ? We’ve got the answer, plus 5 keto deviled eggs you’ve definitely never tried before.

Here’s the history of eggs on Easter and how you can enjoy them, with bold flavors, this Easter.

Let’s celebrate!

Why We Use Eggs to Celebrate Easter

The egg, quite simply, is an ancient symbol of new life. And while it’s been associated with pagan festivals celebrating spring, Christians have used eggs specifically to represent new life in Jesus’ resurrection. Eggs can be thought of as a symbol of Jesus’s resurrected life, and the Christian new life in their faith in Him.

Decorating eggs for Easter is a tradition that dates back to at least the 13th century, according to some sources. One explanation for this custom is that eggs were formerly a forbidden food during Lent, so people would paint and decorate them to mark the end of the period of penance and fasting, then eat them on Easter as a celebration.

Although there is no known religious significance, Easter egg hunts and games with eggs have also become part of many people’s Easter traditions.

Beyond Keto Deviled Eggs

How do you make deviled eggs fit into the “Beyond Keto” lifestyle? To start, eggs are a good foundation. Eggs are a healthy, all-natural protein source within Beyond Keto eating. In fact, you can find many studies and resources to support the eating of eggs within a nourishing diet.

Next, you must look at the other ingredients in your deviled egg recipe. First and foremost, it’s vitally important to remove any source of processed unhealthy fats (soybean oil) in commercial mayonnaise. Soybean oil is highly inflammatory, and devastating to overall health and metabolism (1, 2, 3).

Instead, use the avocado mayo recipe below or buy a healthy avocado mayo at the store. In addition to the healthy fats and nutrients in avocados (4, 5), you can add olive oil for healthy fats (6, 7, 8).

Beyond Keto Avocado Deviled Eggs

Ingredients

12 large free-range eggs1/4 cup Keto Zone Avocado Mayo or commercial Keto Mayo (no soybean oil)1 Tablespoon butter softened to room temperature2 teaspoons yellow mustard2 teaspoons Dijon mustard2 teaspoons pickle juice5 teaspoons keto sweetener (or to taste, optional)1/8 teaspoon salt1/8 teaspoon pepperDash hot sauce, such as TabascoPaprika for sprinklingBacon pieces optional

Instructions

Hard boil eggs: Place eggs in a large saucepan, cover with water, and place on stovetop over high heat. Then, bring water to a boil, boil for one minute, cover with a lid, and remove from heat.Allow to sit for 17-20 minutes, drain, and transfer to an ice bath.Once cooled, peel eggs.Slice cooked eggs in half lengthwise.Remove yolks and transfer to a medium-sized bowl. Add mayo, butter, mustard, pickle juice, sweetener, salt, pepper, and hot sauce. Use a fork to mash well.Spoon filling into each egg white. Sprinkle with paprika and bacon (if using) and serve.

Enjoy! Serves 24.

Nutrition Info (per ½ egg): 44 calories, 3 gm fat, 0 gm carbs, 3 gm protein

4 More Delicious Beyond Keto OptionsSmoked Salmon and Cucumbers Deviled Eggs

Follow the instructions above to hard boil 12 eggs, remove shells, cut lengthwise, remove yolks, place yolks in a bowl, and set whites aside.

With a fork, break yolks into chunks. Reserve 1 tablespoon chopped salmon. To egg yolks,
add 3 tablespoons avocado mayonnaise, 1/4 cup finely chopped cucumber, 2 teaspoons
chopped dill, 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and 3 tablespoons remaining salmon. Gently
stir until combined.

Place egg whites on serving dish or in jellyroll 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 reserved chopped salmon. Cover eggs and refrigerate up to 4 hours. Just before serving, garnish with dill sprigs

Roasted Garlic Deviled Eggs

Follow the instructions above to hard boil 12 eggs, remove shells, cut lengthwise, remove yolks, place yolks in a bowl, and set whites aside.

With a fork, break up yolks until fluffy.

Separately, drizzle 2 teaspoons olive oil over the head of garlic and roast in a 350 degrees F oven until tender, about 30 minutes. Once cooked, squeeze cloves into a bowl and mash.

To yolks, add roasted garlic, 1 cup avocado mayonnaise, and 1/4 cup shredded Asiago cheese; mix. Spoon about 1 tablespoon egg-yolk mixture into each egg-white half. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until ready to serve.

Once ready to serve, toss 1 tablespoon butter with 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs in a skillet until toasted,
2 to 3 minutes. Garnish eggs with mixture and serve.

Deviled Eggs with Cilantro, Jalapeños, and CurryFollow the instructions above to hard boil 12 eggs, remove shells, cut lengthwise, remove yolks, place yolks in a bowl, and set whites aside.In a large pan over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons olive or avocado oil, 30 fresh curry leaves, 1 teaspoon mustard seeds, and 3/4 teaspoon cumin seeds. Stir well until seeds begin to pop, 1 1/2 to 2 minutes. Add 3/4 cups chopped red onion and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt. Cook, stirring, until onion is browned around edges, about 5 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons water and cook until onion is browned, about 2 minutes. Add another 1/4 cup water, stirring and scraping up any browned bits off bottom of pan. Stir in 1 small chopped and seeded jalapeño, plus 1 tablespoon sambar (or curry) powder, and cook, stirring, just until mixture begins to stick to bottom of pan, about 30 seconds. Transfer mixture to bowl with reserved egg yolks.Using a fork, mash together egg yolks and onion-spice mixture until smooth. Stir in 1/2 cup crème fraîche and 1/4 cup avocado mayonnaise. Mix in 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro and 1/4 cup lemon juice, and season with salt. Cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate until chilled, at least 1 hour or up to overnight.

Lastly, spoon a generous tablespoon of filling into each egg-white half. Sprinkle the tops with remaining 1 small chopped and seeded jalapeño before serving.

Smoked Pumpkin Deviled Eggs

Follow the instructions above to hard boil 12 eggs, remove shells, cut lengthwise, remove yolks, place yolks in a bowl, and set whites aside.

Place yolks in a food processor. Then, add 5 tablespoons pumpkin purée, 3 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 2 teaspoons prepared horseradish, and 1 teaspoon paprika. Process for about 30 seconds until smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Spoon the yolk mixture into a large zip-top bag and cut a ¾-inch hole in one corner. Alternatively, use a pastry piping bag. Pipe the filling into the egg halves and smooth the top with a damp finger. Use a fork to make ridges down the yolk.

Cut each of 6 cornichons in half lengthwise, then crosswise to create 24 pieces. Place 1 cornichon piece on the top of each yolk for the stem. Cover with a damp paper towel and refrigerate for up to 2 hours.

Serve chilled and enjoy!

Bottom Line

Let’s celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, and our new lives in Him this week! If you want, add eggs to your celebration to represent new life. And, go ahead – serve these adventurous, healthy, Beyond Keto deviled eggs. Then, get more amazing recipes and tips in Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto book!

The post Why Eggs on Easter? Plus 5 Delish Ways You’ve NEVER Tried Deviled Eggs appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert.