Don Colbert's Blog, page 18

You Need This Keto Zone Pumpkin Cheesecake in Your Life

What’s your favorite part of October? The falling leaves? The crisp weather? The pumpkin recipes? How about a delicious keto pumpkin cheesecake? Yes, all of it!

We have a recipe that will knock your extra-cozy socks off! Try our Keto Zone Pumpkin Cheesecake today. Then, scroll down for more favorite pumpkin recipes.

Delicious Keto Pumpkin Cheesecake

Ingredients

Crust:

2 cups blanched almond flour
1/4 cup grass-fed butter, melted
1 teaspoon organic cinnamon powder
1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Cheesecake:

2 cups organic cream cheese, softened
1 cup erythritol
2/3 cup organic heavy whipping cream
2/3 cup organic pumpkin puree
1 scoop Unflavored MCT Oil Powder
1 teaspoon organic cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon organic ginger powder
1/4 teaspoon organic clove powder
1/4 teaspoon organic nutmeg powder
1 teaspoon vanilla

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F.Combine all crust ingredients in a food processor.Pulse until ingredients are well combined into a dough.Press dough into the pie pan, forming it along the edges.Bake dough for 15 minutes in the preheated oven.Remove crust from oven and set aside.Combine cream cheese with the erythritol and heavy whipping cream in a large mixing bowl. Mix with a mixer to mix until well combined.Add in the pumpkin puree, MCT Oil Powder, vanilla, and spices, and continue to mix until well combined.Evenly distribute cheesecake filling into the crust.Refrigerate the cheesecake for 2-3 hours before serving.Cut into 12 slices. Serve with a cup of keto coffee or tea and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per slice, 1/12 of cake): 350 calories, 35 grams fat, 4 grams net carbs (8 grams carbs, 4 grams fiber), 6 grams protein

Why Eat Keto Zone Pumpkin Cheesecake?

Want both delicious and healthy foods? You’re in luck with pumpkin and our Keto Pumpkin Cheesecake. In fact, pumpkin offers health benefits galore (1). Here’s what pumpkin has for your body:

1. Antioxidants

Pumpkin contains alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein, and zeaxanthin.  These are strong antioxidants, and they will work together to fight free radicals, reduce the risk of cancer, promote heart health, reduce cholesterol-plaque formations, and preserve eye health.

In fact, when pumpkins are analyzed, lutein is the most abundant carotenoid therein (2). Lutein and the other carotenoids can protect body organs and tissue from free radical damage and oxidative stress.

This is incredibly beneficial as oxidative damages are always related to cancer, premature aging, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, atherosclerosis, and a series of other degenerative diseases (3).

2. Amazing Anti-Inflammatory Nutrients

The cell walls of the pumpkin contain pectin. Pectin contains components that are highly anti-inflammatory.  How does this help you?

Anti-inflammatory diets can improve many chronic diseases and symptoms. These include heart disease, joint pain, arthritis, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, asthma, and more.

3. Cellular, Bladder, and Prostate Health

The flesh of the pumpkin is not the only valuable component.

Pumpkin seed oil is highly nutritious and beneficial to the body.

In fact, pumpkin seed oil has specifically been shown to reduce the risk of cellular overgrowth in the prostate, breast, colorectal, stomach, bladder, and lungs. In addition, the oil supports healthy blood pressure, joint health, healthy cholesterol levels, and healthy blood sugars (4, 5, 6). Wow!

This is a great reason to also buy whole pumpkins, roast, and eat the seeds!

4. Heart Health Compounds

Pumpkin seeds also contain phytosterols. Phytosterols are the components used in cholesterol-lowering supplements, functional foods, and more. They are often termed plant sterols.

What’s more, the carotenoids in pumpkin flesh can protect the heart and other body organs and tissue from free radical damage, oxidative stress, and plaque formation (3).

5. Energizing Nutrients

Additionally, pumpkin is a great source of fiber, monounsaturated fats, omega-3s, B-vitamins, and copper.  B-Vitamins and Copper both play a part in energy production, and can make a difference in your get-up-and-go!

More Favorite Pumpkin Recipes

Want even more pumpkin? Of course, you do! Here are some favorites for October, and every month of the year!

Pumpkin Cheesecake Blondies

Pumpkin Spice

Keto Zone Pumpkin Soup

Delicious Pumpkin Seeds

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Mocha

Dark Chocolate Pumpkin Cookies

Bottom Line

There’s no limit to the amazing pumpkin recipes you can make, including our delicious Keto Pumpkin Cheesecake. Try them all, and let us know what you think!

The post You Need This Keto Zone Pumpkin Cheesecake in Your Life appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert.

Need Thyroid or Hormone Support? Take Our Quiz Today!

A woman’s body is constantly changing. Every decade, every year, even within each month, women experience hormone ebbs and flows, and changing bodies. While this may seem unsettling, it doesn’t have to be. In fact, it can be a great opportunity to learn to nourish your body with thyroid and/or hormone support as needed. 

You may be at the point in your life where some extra nutrients are needed. Your body may no longer be in balance. Here are 12 signs you can benefit from thyroid or hormone support (1, 2, 3).

Thyroid and Hormone Support Quiz

Are any of the following true for you?

You feel chronically fatigued, and you can’t explain why. You are increasingly sensitive to cold or heat. You cannot lose weight no matter what you try. You’ve suddenly lost weight and did not want to. You’re experiencing thinning hair including eyelashes and/or eyebrows. You’re experiencing unwanted hair growth (on face, etc). You’re experiencing newly on-set acne, especially along your jawline. Your muscles and joints feel increasingly stiff or painful. You are experiencing night sweats or sweating profusely during the day. You are experiencing newly-onset urinary incontinence. You are experiencing sleep disturbances; trouble falling asleep and/or staying asleep. You feel like you are constantly in a PMS state: feeling anxious, overwhelmed, irritable, crampy, bloated, etc.Why These Symptoms Are Important 

If you answered yes to at least 3 of these questions, you may benefit from all-natural thyroid and/or hormone support.

Unfortunately, for decades or even centuries, most of these symptoms have simply been chaulked up to “aging” or menopause.

While women certainly age and experience body changes, and go through menopause and experience body changes, we don’t have to experience many of the negative and uncomfortable symptoms that come with them. In fact, most of these issues are easily soothed with thyroid and hormone support. 

The right nutrients can actually reduce many negative symptoms, improve balance within your body, and support whole-body wellness. You don’t have to feel poorly year after year. You can feel great again! Here’s how. 

How Thyroid Zone Can Help

Your thyroid affects almost all of your body systems. Many thyroid issues are due to an imbalance or inadequacy of minerals, many of which are difficult-to-obtain in the diet. How can you support your thyroid?

Consider Keto Zone® Thyroid Zone. This supplement specifically supports your thyroid by providing a variety of minerals and nutrients that promote healthy thyroid function. These nutrients are important for whole-body health and may improve the symptoms of hypothyroidism.

In fact, Keto Zone® Thyroid Zone 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 (4). Thyroid Zone has been designed to encourage:

Optimal Thyroid Hormone ProductionT4 to T3 ConversionThyroid Hormone ActivationBalanced Iodine LevelsOptimal Thyroid Enzymes And FunctionProtection of the Thyroid From Oxidative StressWeight LossHealthy MetabolismBalanced Energy

Thyroid Zone promotes balance and health in your thyroid, and therefore, your entire body.

How Hormone Zone Can Help

In addition, Dr. Colbert has formulated a ground-breaking supplement that supports women’s hormones. Specifically, 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. Here’s a summary of each:

Diindolylmethane (DIM) for Hormone Support

Diindolylmethane (DIM) is an important compound produced by our bodies when we eat cruciferous vegetables.  If you’ve ever heard the advice to eat more greens to lower breast risk, it’s due to the resulting production of DIM.

DIM alters the metabolism of estrogen in order to help our bodies balance hormones. How? 

First, it can block an enzyme that converts testosterone into estrogen. Next, DIM converts “bad estrogens” (there are many forms) into good estrogen metabolism. It’s the bad estrogen forms that cause most PMS (pre-mentrual syndrome) and menopause symptoms). Further, DIM encourages pathways that encourage good estrogen production.

DIM is a powerful compound for balancing a woman’s hormones and reducing negative estrogen symptoms (5).

Vitamin D3

Vitamin D3 is a prohormone, or nutrient that is readily converted to its hormone form in the body. It is extremely important for a myriad of health functions, including calcium regulation, mental health, immune function, healthy bones and teeth, and metabolism. The vast majority of adults are low in vitamin D3. When it’s deficient, they may experience more infections and illness, lower bone density, cardiovascular disease, and mental illnesses and disorders like depression (6). 

Adding more Vitamin D3 supports women’s health!

Vitamin K2

Vitamin K2, or menaquinone, is found in animal foods and fermented foods. Most people have heard of vitamin K1 because it’s important for blood clotting, from birth onward. But the importance of vitamin K2 for bone health has only recently been discovered. What’s more, K2 is often deficient in adults.

Vitamin K2 is extremely important for bone health, especially in post-menopausal women.  Supplementing vitamin K2 and vitamin D together may reduce spinal fractures, hip fractures, and osteoporosis. Further, vitamin K2 supports good dental health from infancy into advanced age (7).

Together, these powerful ingredients work to promote:

Healthy hormone levels throughout adulthoodOptimal estrogen ratios and testosterone levelsBone density and reduced risk of fracturesDental healthImmune functionCardiovascular healthHealthy skinDaily energyHealthy weight

It’s never too late to focus on your hormone balance and health. A great step is to add a natural, hormone-balancing supplement which includes DIM, Vitamin D3, and Vitamin K2, such as Keto Zone® Hormone Zone.

Can You Take Thyroid Zone & Hormone Zone Together?

If you’re looking to support your thyroid health and encourage healthy hormone balance, you can certainly take Keto Zone® Thyroid Zone and Keto Zone® Hormone Zone at the same time! In fact, they work great together as their compounds synergistically support women’s health!

Want Testosterone Support As Well?

Of course, it may seem like we’re overlooking the men (or the testosterone needs of women). This article is about women’s thyroid and hormone health, after all. But, we’ve not forgotten testosterone. In fact, Dr. Colbert has also formulated a testosterone supplement that supports men’s health. Keto Zone® Testosterone Zone is men’s answer for healthy testosterone levels through every decade. It is formulated with all-natural, potent ingredients including Testofen, a powerful all-natural testosterone-supporting compound.

And best of all, you can get all three products, Keto Zone® Thyroid Zone, Hormone Zone, and Testosterone Zone in a cost-effective, convenient combo pack:  Dr. Colbert’s Hormone Health System!

Bottom Line

Many people benefit from all-natural thyroid and hormone support and supplementation. Is it time for you to try them? Are you experiencing negative health symptoms that could be soothed or alleviated? Dr. Colbert’s Keto Zone® Thyroid Zone and Keto Zone® Hormone Zone are great supplements with which to start. You can experience positive thyroid, hormone, whole-body health effects. In addition, try Dr. Colbert’s Hormone Health System to add testosterone to the mix!

The post Need Thyroid or Hormone Support? Take Our Quiz Today! appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert.

Collagen Can Transform Your Skin…But There’s a Catch

Would you like to improve the condition of your skin? Would you like to transform your skin despite the upcoming dry winter weather? A more healthy and youthful appearance? Collagen can help.

However, many popular collagen products are little more than a waste of money. They either do not contain the right type of collagen or the right amount. There is a collagen catch.

Transform Your Skin? The Collagen Catch

Did you know that most studies that show a significant transformation in skin appearance use 5 to 10, and sometimes even 12+ grams of collagen per day?

What’s more, there are over 30 different types of collagen. The type that can transform your skin is Type I. But, if you’d like more benefit from your collagen powder, you can choose a collagen that has 3-4 different types that support ligament, joint, digestion, and immune health.

How to Get the Right Amount and Type of Collagen for Skin

How do you get Type I Collagen?

Type I Collagen is most abundant from bovine and marine sources. However, some experts have concerns regarding bovine (cow) allergies and disease from cows. Many believe the “cleanest” and best Type I collagen comes from marine sources like fish (1).

In addition, it’s important to get enough. Since most human studies show benefits when participants consume 5-10 grams of collagen per day, powders are the best form. Unfortunately, gummies, pills, and collagen-fortified foods often contain 0.5-1 grams collagen.

Lastly, for best results, choose collagen in the form of hydrolyzed collagen powder. Hydrolyzed collagen is the form that is most efficiently absorbed and distributed throughout the body and skin. In the skin, hydrolyzed collagen has been shown to 1) provide building blocks for skin collagen and elastin fibers, and 2) stimulate the creation and growth of new collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid (2).

How Does the Right Amount of Type I Hydrolyzed Collagen Transform Your Skin? The Research1. Hydrolyzed Collagen Supports Skin Elasticity

A 2014 study of 46 women, ages 35-55, showed that eight weeks of collagen powder supplementation improved skin elasticity within just 4 weeks (3).

When skin’s elasticity is improved it can stretch and rebound better, without sagging. This increases a youthful appearance.

2. Collagen May Reduce the Appearance of Wrinkles

Another 2014 study concluded that collagen supplementation reduced wrinkles after just 8 weeks of use (4).

What’s more, a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology concluded that collagen supplementation not only improved skin moisture but also produced younger-looking, less-fragmented skin (5).

3. The Structure of Skin is Affected by Collagen Intake

In a 2017 lab study, researchers found that 6 months of oral consumption of collagen increased the collagen content in the skin. It also improved the skin structure and improved the density of different types of collagen (type I and type III).

This resulted in improved color and luster of the skin and fur. While this was a study on mice, it is promising for human skin and hair as well (6).

4. Collagen Can Increase Skin Hydration

The same study that showed increased skin elasticity showed a measurable decrease in transepidermal water loss and dryness of skin.

What’s more, another study of 20 Japanese women concluded that 10 grams of Hydrolyzed Collagen per day improved the water absorption capacity of the skin compared to the placebo group (7).

5. Get More Skin Antioxidant Activity with Collagen

Our skin is constantly under assault from oxidative stress from our environment (smoke, pollution, UV rays, etc.). By increasing the antioxidant activity in the skin, we increase our chances of fighting these assaults and reducing age-related results (8).

6. Better Wound Healing with Collagen

In a 2009 lab study, researchers found that collagen supplementation produced quicker wound closure and better tissue regeneration at the wound site. What’s more, the treated mice also formed thicker and better-organized collagen fibers (10).

7. Collagen Helps the Body Absorb More Nutrients

We depend on our digestive tract to absorb the nutrients our cells, tissues, and organs need to thrive.

Collagen can help improve digestion, thereby increasing the beneficial nutrients, fats and amino acids that reach the skin.

What Else Can Collagen Do?

Again, there are over 30 types of naturally-occurring collagen. Many types support human health.

First, Type II collagen supports your immune function and encourages recovery when you are sick. It also supports joint, ligament, cartilage and digestive health. Type II is a major part of our gut lining, and it acts as a barrier between the substances we consume and our bloodstream. This helps both digestion and immune function. It is found in chicken- and bovine-sourced collagen.

Next, Type III Collagen promotes cardiovascular health. Remarkably, it helps form arterial walls. Type III collagen is often sourced from bovine and other animals.

While 80-90% of human collagen is types I, II, and III, there are other types. Two other important types are V and X. These are important for cell membranes, placenta health during pregnancy, bone formation, and more. When you get chicken or bovine sources collagen, you are usually getting at least a small amount of these types as well.

Get the Best Hydrolyzed Collagen to Transform Y0ur Sin & More!

Ready to add hydrolyzed collagen to your daily routine? Fortunately, it’s easy.

In fact, Keto Zone Hydrolyzed Chicken Collagen and Marine Powder is a great source of all these collagens, especially Types I, II, and III. Since it is marine and chicken sources, you’ll get enough Type I collagen to support skin health, while also benefiting from Type II and Type III collagen.

What’s more, each serving contains 16 grams of total collagen!

It’s incredibly easy to mix into your coffee, yogurt, or smoothies. Or, try our Daily Whipped Frappe for Healthy Joints!

Bottom Line

Whether you’re looking to transform your skin, joints and ligaments, or support immune health, Keto Zone Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder is a great start! It includes both chicken and marine collagens, and you get the 3 most important types of collagen in each scoop! It’s easy to add to your daily routine and has so much to offer your body. Get started today!

The post Collagen Can Transform Your Skin…But There’s a Catch appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert.

No More Sugary Hazelnut Spread. Try Our Keto Zone Recipe Instead!

It’s no secret. Kids and adults alike love chocolate hazelnut spreads like Nutella. And what’s not to like? Delicious hazelnuts and cocoa are a delicious flavor combination.

However, there’s a glaring problem in the ingredients list. Neither hazelnuts nor cocoa are the primary ingredient. Instead, it’s sugar.

While the flavor may be great, eating spoonfuls of sugar is not. Not only will commercial chocolate hazelnut spreads kick you right out of the Keto Zone®, they’ll promote inflammatory processes in your body.

What can you do instead? We’ve got a great solution: Keto Zone® Chocolate Hazelnut Spread! All the flavor with none of the sugar. What’s more, every ingredient is upgraded to deliver amazing nutrients to your body. Try it today and kick sugary spreads to the curb!

Keto Zone® Chocolate Hazelnut Spread

Ingredients

1 cup organic hazelnuts
¼ cup organic coconut oil
2 tablespoons grass-fed butter, melted
3 tablespoons organic raw cacao powder
1 scoop MCT oil powder (Hazelnut) 
1 teaspoon organic vanilla extract
1/4-1/2 teaspoon organic liquid stevia (to taste)
1/4 teaspoon sea salt

InstructionsPreheat the oven to 275 degrees F. Prepare baking sheets by placing silicon mat or parchment paper on 1-2 large baking sheets. Spread hazelnuts in a single layer on sheet(s).Place hazelnuts in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, checking them periodically to insure they do not burn. Once roasted, remove nuts from the oven.Place roasted nuts on a clean kitchen towel. Agitate and rub the hazelnuts with the towel to remove the shells. Continue to remove all fragments until completely shelled.Combine the shelled nuts with the remaining ingredients in a blender or a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Makes 14 (2-tablespoon) servings. Enjoy!

Nutrition info (per 2 tablespoons): 117 calories, 11 grams of fat, 5 grams saturated fat, 1 grams net carbohydrates (3 grams carbs, 2 grams fiber), 1 grams protein

More Hazelnut & Hazelnut MCT Oil Powder Recipes

Want more ways to use delicious Keto Zone® MCT Oil Powder (Hazelnut)? Try:

Hazelnut Iced Mocha

Hazelnut Holiday Fudge

Keto Zone® Hazelnut Chocolate Bars

7 Proven Benefits of Hazelnut MCT Oil Powder

Why add Hazelnut MCT Oil Powder to your diet? There are many proven benefits. They include:

1. Brain Health and Focus

Hazelnut MCT oil powder is a great ingredient to use to get into, and stay in the Keto Zone® (ketosis). When consumed, MCT oil powder will encourage ketone production.

Currently, scientists are studying the effects of ketones, like those from MCTs, in preserving healthy brains and inhibiting degradation from aging (1).

Additionally, researchers have found that ketones are usable fuel for the brain in those with degenerative brain conditions, similar to young healthy brains. (2). In these cases, there’s an impairment in the use of glucose by the brain. Utilizing ketones in the brain rather than glucose may result in memory improvements and brain function (3).

2. Heart Health Support

Medium-chain triglycerides in MCT oil have been shown to improve cholesterol profiles by decreasing LDL cholesterol, decreasing the number of LDL particles, and increasing HDL cholesterol (4, 5).

There are three primary ways MCT oil supports cardiovascular health.

First, MCTs encourage healthy cholesterol profiles by decreasing LDL (bad cholesterol) while increasing HDL (good cholesterol). In turn, this improves the total cholesterol ratio.

In one recent study, 17 overweight women were given MCTs for 27 days.  When tested, their LDL cholesterol decreased, HDL increased, cholesterol ratio improved, and plasma glutathione increased (a powerful natural antioxidant). Researchers stated that their cardiovascular risk profile was improved (6).

In another 2018 study, 96 adults consumed butter, coconut oil, or olive oil. When tested, LDL remained unchanged with coconut oil and olive oil. HDL significantly increased with coconut oil. This change improved the cholesterol profile in the coconut oil group (7).

3. Health Weight

Amazingly, MCTs can encourage healthy weights and BMI. This is great news since even moderate weight improvements support healthy cholesterol, triglycerides, blood sugars, and inflammation levels.

What’s more, since MCTs and fats in general, promote satiety. This means you’ll feel less hungry even while improving weight (8, 9).

4. Improved Inflammatory Responses

Inflammation is at the center of most chronic health issues, and is linked to heart conditions, impaired blood sugars, cognitive decline, and more.

MCTs promote less inflammation in the body. In 2014, 30 adults with high cholesterol and inflammation consumed MCTs for 30 days. When retested, scientists found significant reductions in LDL, increases in HDL, and reductions in C-reactive protein (a marker for inflammation) (10).

This is just one study among many that show MCT oil’s effect on inflammation.

5. Optimized Blood Sugars

MCTs also support optimized blood sugars with a decreased insulin output. The outcome is improved health and fat metabolism (11).

In fact, MCTs can help promote healthy blood sugars by:

Encouraging insulin sensitivityProviding an alternate energy source to carbohydratesPreserving beta-cell health (decline in these cells contributes to diabetes)Promoting healthy weight

In one recent study, scientists concluded that MCT oils provided benefits to beta cells in both mice and humans. One key to combating diabetes is improving the health of these cells (12).

Additionally, a 2016 animal study showed that MCTs improved both insulin resistance and inflammation. (13).

While more human studies are needed, MCT oil powder is a promising supplement to help improve blood sugar outcomes.

6. Healthy Digestion

Amazingly, MCTs can fight unhealthy yeasts while supporting an increase in healthy bacteria and absorption in the digestive tract (14). Unhealthy yeasts plague many people and cause a myriad of digestive and health issues.

Digestive diseases can affect the body in many ways, including:

Poor absorption, stunted growth, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and low energyDirect digestive symptoms such as constipation, bloated, and crampingDeclining digestive tissues with the risk of ulcers, hemorrhoids, decreased healthy bacteria growth, fungus and yeast overgrowth, and diverticular diseases

MCT oil powder eases digestion, since bile isn’t needed to digest MCTs. In fact, MCTs go from the intestines directly to the liver, and the body quickly uses them as energy or storage. MCTs can nourish those who can’t digest nutrients well.

In one 2018 study, MCT supplementation decreased intestinal candida overgrowth in preterm infants. The candida decreased during supplementation, then increased again once it was stopped (15).

MCTs can improve healthy bacteria levels, fat-soluble vitamin absorption, and energy metabolism (16).

7. Energy and Athletic Performance

If you’re looking for a fuel that increases energy, MCTs are one such fuel. Once delivered to the liver from the intestines, MCTs increase energy output in the mitochondria, which are the energy producers in cells (17).

In addition, athletes typically look for ways to decrease lactate levels. When recreational athletes consumed MCTs, they experienced lower lactate levels during moderate and intense workouts than they did with other fats. This may lead to improved endurance and performance (18).

Other researchers found that MCTs reduce high-temperature exercise performance issues and improve overall performance (19).

BOTTOM LINE

Autumn is a wonderful time to add more hazelnuts to your diet. In fact, you can add the nuts AND Keto Zone® MCT Oil Powder (Hazelnut) for the most benefit. We’ve got delicious recipes, and 7 incredibly convincing reasons to add them today!

 

The post No More Sugary Hazelnut Spread. Try Our Keto Zone Recipe Instead! appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert.

Taking Probiotics? Read This First

By now, you’ve surely heard that many human health ailments begin in the digestive tract. They can stem from digestive issues, and they can become more inflamed due to digestive inflammation. But, there is good news. The digestive tract, which holds the majority of the body’s immune components, can also fight these ailments if it’s healthy. In fact, you can fortify your digestive tract to fight better each day by taking probiotics.

The Issue with Taking Probiotics

Ready to start taking probiotics?

Not so fast.

There are also major issues with many probiotics supplements. In fact, some probiotics do not live through digestion, do not remain viable in the small intestine, do not adhere to the mucosa, and do not become an established working part of the native microbiota. They often contain little proven bacterial strains for human health. 

What a waste of time and money!

It’s vital to know which probiotic strains actually help human health, and which formulations work best to deliver the probiotics into the gut while they are still viable.

Amazing Probiotic Strains for Human Health

Again, not all strains of probiotic bacteria are equal. Some bacteria strains can cause damage, some are  neutral, and some are amazing allies to digestive health and whole body health.

A few great probiotic strains you’ve maybe never heard of include:

Bacillus Coagulans

Bacillus Coagulans are naturally-occurring fermented bacteria found in sauerkraut, kimchi, and yogurt. 

Amazingly, studies have found that bacillus coagulans significantly improve symptoms of digestive ailments, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, flatulence, abdominal distention, and constipation in those who suffer from them (1, 2).

They also affect joints. One study analyzed B. coagulans‘ effect on inflammation in the joints of participants with arthritic symptoms. The researchers found that participants who took B. coagulans reported less disability, an improved ability to participate in daily activities like long walks, and reduced C-reactive protein (CRP, a marker of inflammation) (3).

Lastly, B. coagulans may also support immune function. One small study found increased T cell production (immune cells) in participants responding to influenza A and adenovirus when taking B. coagulans. This displays an upregulation in immune system effectiveness (4).

Bacillus Subtilis

Like B. coagulans, Bacillus subtilis strains may significantly decrease inflammation in the body. In fact, under inflammatory conditions, B. subtilis has significantly reduced the inflammatory protein production in the intestines in research. Data supports Bacillus-based probiotics, like B. Subtilis strains, can improve digestive health by strengthening intestinal barrier and limiting inflammatory responses (5).

Lactobacillus Plantarum (N13)

Another amazing and effective probiotic strain is Lactobacillus plantarum. It is a widespread species of lactic acid bacteria, and it is commonly found in fermented plant products such as sauerkraut, pickles, brined olives, and Korean kimchi.

Specifically, L. plantarum is an antioxidant probiotic that fights cell overgrowth, inflammatory responses, fat gain, and unhealthy glucose levels (6).

What’s more, L. plantarum is able to produce B-group vitamins including riboflavin and folate in the human body (7). It also supports digestion by increasing absorption of minerals including iron and calcium (8, 9, 10). Lastly, L. plantarum has been found to improve diarrhea, including traveler’s diarrhea and antibiotic-associated diarrhea (11, 12).

But L. plantarum doesn’t stop there. It can actually affect skin health and aging skin. In clinical trials, L. plantarum significantly increased the skin water content in the face and hands, and participants experienced a significant reduction in wrinkle depth and appearance in 12 weeks.  What’s more, skin elasticity in the probiotic participants improved by 13.17% after 4 weeks and by 21.73% after 12 weeks (13). How?

When taken as a probiotic, L. plantarum improves skin hydration, has anti-photoaging (sun) effects, and inhibits the degradation of collagen in human skin (14, 15, 16). Lastly, it improves skin appearance by alleviating symptoms of skin inflammation in humans (17).

As if that wasn’t enough, many studies show that L. plantarum supports healthy cholesterol levels, triglycerides, and blood sugars. In one study, supplementation with it reduced total cholesterol by 13.6% after 12 weeks (18)!

Bifidobacterium Breve (BBr60)

Bifidobacterium breve is a beneficial bacteria found in human breast milk and the gastrointestinal tracts of infant and adult humans. As an individual ages, however, the total population of B. breve in their gut decreases (19).

When taken as a supplement, B. breve can affect skin health by increasing skin hydration (20, 21) and reducing the appearance of skin damage from UV exposure (22, 23, 24).

Next, B. breve may reduce eczema symptoms, skin inflammation (25), and allergic rhinitis by reducing the inflammatory response to allergens (26).

Then, B. breve supports digestive health by promoting the viability of Bifidobacteria and the formation of normal intestinal flora, reducing severity of diarrhea, and alleviating abdominal pain and constipation, as shown in human and animal studies (27, 28, 29).

Bifidobacterium Lactis 

Bifidobacterium Lactis is another probiotic found in the large intestine of humans and other mammals. This one’s likely on your radar; in fact, Bifidobacterium Lactis is one of the world’s most documented probiotics.

B. lactis is extremely versatile and beneficial. In fact, it supports:

Gut mucosa healthReduced pathogensIntestinal barrier functionImmune function

Researchers have found that B. Lactis can decrease gastrointestinal discomfort (30), improve oral health(31), support healthy weights (32), decrease antibiotic-related diarrhea (33), and improve immune response (34).

More to Consider When Taking Probiotics

Now you know. There’s more to it than just picking up a generic probiotic supplement at your grocer. Some strains really promote human health.

What’s more, some probiotics formulations go beyond the strains of bacteria. They:

Have been extensively studied to remain viable, incorporate into the microbiota, proliferate, and impact health in humans.Functionally improve the structure, communication, and health of gut cells. Support brain health by reducing inflammation and encouraging healthy brain-gut axis communication and interaction.Thrive in the intestines partly because they also contain prebiotic fiber such as Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and Glactoogosaccharides (GOS).Fight pathogens from spoiled foods, viruses and bacteria to promote year-round health. Ready to Start Taking Probiotics?

As with all Divine Health supplements, Dr. Colbert has gone through the painstaking process of developing a probiotic supplement he believes will help people the most. It contains each of these bacteria strains, remains viable through digestion, and impacts human health throughout the body.

Now, you can try it for yourself and buy Divine Health Biotics! 

If you are looking to support your gut health, skin health, brain health, and heart health, this is a great option for you.

Bottom Line

Don’t waste your time and money. If you are already taking probiotics, make sure they are up to par. If you are looking for one, check out the new Divine Health Biotics. It can make a huge difference in your health, from your gut to your brain to everywhere else, starting today!

 

 

 

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Let Your Food Be Your Medicine – Beyond Keto Pesto Salmon

Are you looking for a dinner that everyone will love? A dinner that’s quick and easy to make? And most of all, one with foods that go beyond macronutrients, and work to promote health throughout your body? Tonight is your night: let your food be your medicine.

Today, for “National Let Your Food Be Your Medicine Day,” we are highlighting one of our most healthful recipes. This delicious recipe uses many of the key components of Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto book, including ingredients that support brain, heart, and digestive health.

On the other hand, there are no damaging ingredients. No processed foods or soybean oil. No added sugars, no chemical flavorings, and no refined starches or carbohydrates.

Are you ready to let your food be your medicine tonight?

Beyond Keto Pesto Salmon Over Asparagus

Ingredients:

4 wild-caught salmon filets, 4-6 ounces each1 lb. asparagus, washed and tough ends chopped off2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil½ cup Keto Zone Pesto (click link for recipe)10 Cherry or grape tomatoes OR whole peppercorns (omit tomatoes if avoiding nightshades)salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Place asparagus in the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish. Drizzle olive oil, salt and pepper, and “roll” to coat.Place salmon over asparagus, skin-side down.Top each filet with about 2 Tablespoons pesto.Add optional tomatoes, whole peppercorns, and sprinkle on salt and pepper.Cover with foil tightly and bake at 400 deg F for 30-35 minutes or until salmon is no longer translucent and flakes with the fork.If you’ve made extra Pesto, use it over cooked chicken for another easy dinner, or as a delicious fat bomb.

Serves 4. Nutrition Information per serving: 294 calories, 24 gm fat, 9 gm carbs, 5 gm fiber, 15 gm protein

How Does Beyond Keto Let Your Food Be Your Medicine?

It’s simple. Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto is not a diet. It’s an eating lifestyle that aims to ditch unhealthy processed foods, overflow the body with real, living, low-sugar, whole foods based on the Mediterranean Diet, and promote a healthy weight.

In fact, Beyond Keto combines the best of the Keto Zone® diet with the Mediterranean Diet. Together, its food and lifestyle supports health from head to toe.

Here’s how Beyond Keto and recipes like Beyond Keto Pesto Salmon work as your medicine.

Beyond Keto And Food As Medicine

Through scientific study, experience, and decades of research, Dr. Colbert has formulated this eating plan and recipes to promote overall health, healthy weights, and reduced inflammation.  Beyond Keto aims to:

Promote a Healthy Weight

Almost all current negative health conditions are linked to, or exacerbated by, obesity (1). By utilizing healthy ketogenic diet principles, Beyond Keto promotes healthy changes and outcomes as soon as the first two weeks (2)! 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 (3).

Fight Inflammation in the Brain Via Better Gut Health

Are you familiar with neuroinflammation resulting from degradation of gut health? While this may have seemed far-fetched 50 years ago, experts now know there is a bi-directional signaling between the gut and the brain. And, when one is inflamed and unhealthy, the other one follows suit.

Unfortunately, neuroinflammation is linked with brain impairment and dysfunction. In fact, many experts implicate the modern Western diet in the development of many health and brain issues including memory impairments, neurodegenerative issues, and depressed moods. What’s more, many believe the consumption of ultra-processed foods and excessive energy intake (4) is at the root of gut inflammation leading to neuroinflammation. The communication system and link between gut-brain health is called the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis (5).

Fortunately, Beyond Keto can help! First, it promotes a healthy digestive system with many nourishing foods and no processed ones. Then, it fights inflammation at every turn with the most potent anti-inflammatory combination of foods possible: omega-3 fats and monounsaturated fatty acids from foods like extra-virgin olive oil.

Encourage Healthy Cholesterol, Triglyceride, and Blood Pressure Levels

Both the Keto Zone and Mediterranean diet aspects of Beyond Keto support heart health. First, Beyond Keto promotes a healthy weight, which can help optimize heart health. Next, by choosing the incredibly heart-healthy foods in the Mediterranean diet, you can continue to encourage great heart health In fact, the foods in the Mediterranean diet and Beyond Keto work to support heart health, healthy cholesterol, and achieve whole-body health (6).

Optimize Blood Sugars and Metabolism

An amazing aspect of both the ketogenic diet and the Mediterranean diet normalized blood sugars. By using both eating styles in Beyond Keto, you’ll remove harmful refined starches while focusing on healthy fats, high fiber beans, peas, lentils, vegetables, lean protein and low glycemic fruits such as berries. Part of the improvement comes from weight loss. The other part comes from a diet that supports healthy metabolism and hormones (7).

Promote a Healthy Gut Microbiota

Amazingly, Beyond Keto combines Keto Zone and Mediterranean foods to support gut health! This is great news for the millions of people who suffer from less-than-optimal gut function. In fact, studies have found the Mediterranean diet specifically improves gut microbiota and its associated metabolism functions. The diet’s prebiotics from healthy fibers along with healthy fats and polyphenols support gut health, hormone balance, and metabolism (8).

Flood the Body with Antioxidants and Anti-Inflammatory Compounds

One of the worst dietary habits plaguing humans worldwide is the consumption of ultra-processed foods. In fact, researchers have found that ultra-processed foods are linked  to most modern health conditions and even overall risk of death (9)! Thankfully, you’ll eat healthy, high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory foods rather than ultra-processed ones (10). This means less oxidative stress and inflammation throughout the body.

Increase Energy, Vitality, and Mental Focus

One of the greatest benefits of the ketogenic diet is the production of ketones. Ketones are natural energizing compounds that support healthy mental focus and vitality. The Mediterranean diet also encourages great energy and vitality with the abundant variety of healthy foods. Rather than experiencing the ups and downs of  a high-sugar diet, you will enjoy steady, youthful energy from delicious, colorful whole foods.

Want More Beyond Keto?

There’s more! Get your copy of Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto and let your food be your medicine every night! You’ll find an easy-to-follow eating lifestyle plan with recipes, tips, and clear guidance. Get your hands on this book today!

Bottom Line

It’s easier than ever to Let Your Food Be Your Medicine with Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto. However, it won’t make much difference if we only use it one day per year! Instead, make Beyond Keto your everyday plan to eat a healthy, unprocessed, brain-empowering, diet!

 

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Krill Oil is Superior Against The Inflammation in Your Body

You’ve heard of the many amazing health benefits of omega-3s. You’ve heard how it fights against inflammation and supports overall health. But, what if there was an omega-3 source that went far beyond all the others? What if it were better absorbed, more potent, and better protected through digestion? Keto Zone Living Krill Oil boasts all of these attributes.

Want to learn more? 

Of course you do. Here’s why krill oil is the superior omega-3 source, why it’s vital to use it to reduce your omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, and how its fats and antioxidants work against inflammation to support great health through the body.

Why Krill Oil?

Krill is a superior source of omega-3 fats.

Why? 

Like other omega-3 sources, supplementing with krill oil will raise your blood levels of healthy fats like DHA and EPA (1). When these increase in your blood, inflammatory markers decrease. 

But here’s the key: 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).

Krill Oil, Omega-6, and Omega-3 Fats

Krill oil is a great option in improving your omega-6 to omega-3 dietary ratio.

Experts believe that a diet with a ratio of 2:1 omega-6s to omega-3s has historically been the healthiest. That is, you must consume 1 gram of omega-3 fats for every 2 grams of omega-6 consumed. Unfortunately, many modern chronic health conditions result from inflammation, and inflammation is associated with a high omega-6 to omega-3 ratio.

Realistically, a 2:1 ratio is all but impossible in modern times, and a ratio of 4:1 to 8:1 is a good goal (4). For context, most Americans’ ratio is between 12:1 to 25:1!

To improve your ratio, it’s imperative to both reduce the amount of omega-6s consumed AND increase omega-3s. This typically means eating fatty fish, like salmon, halibut, or tuna each week (5) and taking a strong omega-3 supplement with DHA and EPAs. Then, you must vastly reduce processed foods and oils with concentrated omega-6 fats, like soybean oil.

5 Specific Ways Krill Oil Fights Inflammation and Improves Your Ratio

Since krill oil is effective in improving blood levels of healthy fats, it stands to reason that it is effective against inflammation throughout the body. Here is a sample of studies showing its effects:

Triglycerides and Heart Inflammation: If you want to support your heart health and inflammatory factors, krill oil can help. 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 (6).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 (7).Obesity Related Inflammation: Obesity negatively affects tissues and organs throughout the 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 associated with obesity (8).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 (9).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 (10).Bottom Line

It’s vital to health to reduce inflammatory markers, and one of the best ways to do so is to add krill oil as a daily supplement. Not only is it superiorly absorbed and used in the body, it supports whole body health by reducing inflammatory markers in the digestive system, brain, joints, liver and heart. Start your krill oil regimen today!

The post Krill Oil is Superior Against The Inflammation in Your Body appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert.

Summer’s Shocking Mediterranean Diet Study

When it comes to heart conditions, many people still believe a low-fat diet is best. They may be willing to reduce carbohydrates to achieve their weight goals, but proactively add high-fat foods? That’s a step too far. For them, the low-fat dogma taught decades ago is just too hard to shake. This summer’s shocking Mediterranean diet study may be just what they need to be convinced that fats are good for your heart.

Here are the highlights of the study, what you need to know about the Mediterranean diet, and how you can best implement it for optimal health, weight, and youthfulness.

Summer’s Shocking Mediterranean Diet Study

This summer’s Mediterranean diet study was published in The Lancet in May 2022 (1). However, it actually started over a decade ago. In 2009, researchers took 1002 participants who had diagnosed coronary artery disease (plaque buildup in the heart’s arteries), including 827 men and 175 women, and divided them into two groups.

Group 1, which consisted of 502 participants, ate a Mediterranean diet. If this is unfamiliar to you, a traditional Mediterranean diet emphasizes foods high in monounsaturated fats — particularly olive oil and nuts — along with legumes, whole grains, poultry, and fatty fish. It also encourages high amounts of fruits and vegetables.

Group 2 ate a low-fat diet. This means they actively minimized high-fat foods including those considered unhealthy fats AND healthy fats. Their diets encouraged lean versions of fish and poultry, and more calories per day from carbohydrates, particularly whole grains, legumes, and potatoes.

The results? For those who’ve held strongly to the low-fat recommendations of former decades, the results are shocking.

Mediterranean Diet Study Results

After 7 years of following their assigned diets, the participants were once again tested for coronary heart disease markers.

The Mediterranean diet group had a 26% lower risk of having a heart attack or stroke, compared with people in the low-fat group. The researchers concluded that the Mediterranean diet was superior to the low-fat diet in preventing major cardiovascular events in secondary prevention.

Of course, this is not the first study that clearly shows the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet. Study after study has shown that the Mediterranean diet is effective in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and overall mortality. Much of the research has found that it supports healthy reductions in inflammation, blood sugar, and body mass index (2, 3, 4).

Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto – The Most Effective Mediterranean Diet Plan

If you’re looking for a great way to take these shocking results and make a healthy Mediterranean diet your eating lifestyle, look no further than Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto!

Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto is a revolutionary new approach that combines the best of the Keto Zone Diet with the Mediterranean Diet to support healthy weight, gut health, brain health, reduced inflammation, healthy aging, and more (5).

Specifically, it encourages:

A Healthy Weight: Almost all current negative health conditions are linked to, or exacerbated by, obesity (6). By utilizing healthy ketogenic diet principles, Beyond Keto promotes healthy changes and outcomes as soon as the first two weeks (7)! 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 (8).Energy, Vitality, and Mental Focus: One of the greatest benefits of the ketogenic diet is the production of ketones. Ketones are natural energizing compounds that support healthy mental focus and vitality. The Mediterranean diet also encourages great energy and vitality with the abundant variety of healthy foods. Rather than experiencing the ups and downs of  a high-sugar diet, you will enjoy steady, youthful energy from delicious, colorful whole foods.Optimal Blood Sugars and Metabolism: An amazing aspect of both the ketogenic diet and the Mediterranean diet normalized blood sugars. By using both eating styles in Beyond Keto, you’ll remove harmful refined starches while focusing on healthy fats, high fiber beans, peas, lentils, vegetables, lean protein and low glycemic fruits such as berries. Part of the improvement comes from weight loss. The other part comes from a diet that supports healthy metabolism and hormones (9).Healthy Cholesterol, Triglyceride, and Blood Pressure Levels. Both the Keto Zone and Mediterranean diet aspects of Beyond Keto support heart health. First, Beyond Keto promotes a healthy weight, which can help optimize heart health. Next, by choosing the incredibly heart-healthy foods in the Mediterranean diet, you can continue to encourage great heart health In fact, the foods in the Mediterranean diet and Beyond Keto work to support heart health, healthy cholesterol, and achieve whole-body health (10).Natural Unprocessed Foods Full of Antioxidants and Anti-Inflammatory Compounds. One of the worst dietary habits plaguing humans worldwide is the consumption of ultra-processed foods. In fact, researchers have found that ultra-processed foods are linked  to most modern health conditions and even overall risk of death (11)! Thankfully, you’ll eat healthy, high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory foods rather than ultra-processed ones (12).Healthy Gut Microbiota. Amazingly, Beyond Keto combines Keto Zone and Mediterranean foods to support gut health! This is great news for the millions of people who suffer from less-than-optimal gut function. In fact, studies have found the Mediterranean diet specifically improves gut microbiota and its associated metabolism functions. The diet’s prebiotics from healthy fibers along with healthy fats and polyphenols support gut health, hormone balance, and metabolism (13).

All in all, Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto is a wonderful eating lifestyle full of delicious foods that will help you achieve great health and your weight goals.

Bottom Line

This summer, take this Mediterranean diet study, its results, and run with them. Choose a healthy lifestyle that’s full of healthy fats, vegetables, proteins and very few processed foods. It’s a great time to support your heart health, brain health, and whole-body health with Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto!

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12 Less Stress Back to School Strategies

Stress is a natural, even useful, part of life. It can warn us that we are taking on too much or trying to control things we cannot. It can alert us to danger, help our bodies respond in emergencies, and help our brains focus. It can simply be our natural response to difficult situations. So, why should we want less stress back to school strategies?

Stress can also be very problematic. When it’s based on inaccurate information, on future or present made-up worries rather than reality, or when it becomes chronic, it can become unhealthy and extremely detrimental. It can be tough on parents and students to head back to school when feeling stressed.

Detrimental Effects of Chronic Stress

According to the American Psychological Association’s 2017 Stress in America survey, more and more adults report stress as an interference with their own physical and mental health (1). Approximately 33% of adults reported sleeping issues, 32% reported headaches, and 27% reported an inability to concentrate due to stress. Additionally, 47% of adults reported losing patience with or yelling at their partner, and 46% reported similar behavior with their children because of stress.

Prolonged stress results in high cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone that’s released by the adrenal glands when the body faces stress. In modern times, this stress is often more mental than physical and usually has no outlet. For many, it’s chronic. It builds. And it does damage.

According to an October 2018 study, researchers found that increased blood cortisol levels are correlated with impaired memory and lower brain volume in mid-life (2). What’s more, after studying 2231 human participants, they found the effects were more pronounced in women participants than men.

High blood cortisol levels are correlated with weight gain and impaired loss, increased blood pressure, negative impacts on mood, sleep and energy, and an increased incidence of glucose and cardiac issues (3).

As many of us head into this season as parents, students, teachers, and community members, let’s prioritize mental health. Choose less stress back to school strategies!

12 Less Stress Back to School Strategies1. As A Parent, Identify Your Own Stress

It’s no surprise: chronic parental stress affects children’s mental health and stress levels (4). As kids head back to school, it’s important for parents to identify their own stress.

Of note, parents should not feel guilty about their stress level. That only adds more stress! Instead, do what you can to manage adult stress, starting with prayer, talking to your children, and using these strategies in your own life to better manage or confront it.

2. Ask Your Kids, Don’t Assume

Kids have a way of surprising us throughout life! One surprise might be that a parent’s perception of their child’s stress is different from what the child is actually experiencing.

One reason is that our perspectives of what’s important are often very different. While a parent might think a student is stressed about an upcoming exam, the student might actually be stressed about a social relationship.

Open communication is key. So, ask your kids about stress, don’t assume. Identifying stressors is a huge step to less stress back to school.

3. Pray Together About Specific Stressors

Before any stressful situation, our first line of defense is prayer. When we pray, we give our worries to God and release our pent-up stress. When we pray, we can listen to God, and align our perspective with His. This is a great opportunity to teach your kids the power of prayer.

You and your kids can pray for:

Your child(ren)’s stress level and their specific worriesTheir friends and friends’ familiesYour child(ren)’s teachers and school staffHealth and safety at home or schoolChildhood fun, joy, and playfulnessClear minds and low stress for learning

With each prayer, you give control to God in any out-of-control situation. With each prayer, you can listen and feel peace and truth from God, rather than anxious lies. With each prayer, you can give your worries to the one who can handle them.

Remind your students: Prayer is strength. Corrie Ten Boom said, “Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow. It empties today of its strength.”

4. Emphasize Good Breakfast, Snacks & Hydration

For years we’ve known that eating breakfast improves cognitive performance in students (5). So first, make a plan for good breakfasts each day.

Next, many students need small healthy snacks between meals to stay focused and energized. They are active, busy, and growing! Consider sending healthy bars, fruits, nuts, etc. for snacks during the school day.

Lastly, did you know dehydration increases cortisol (6)? Encourage your student (and yourself) to stay hydrated throughout each day for less stress.

5. Watch Your Words

How you talk about situations can completely change your household’s reactions and outcomes.  As the adult in the room, you have a lot of power when it comes to language and school stress.

In fact, even when patients are recovering from chronic illness, optimistic language and optimism have been shown to improve outcomes (7).

This doesn’t mean to downplay any concerns, but it does mean to talk about them from a prayerful perspective that doesn’t evoke extra stress.

For example, you can make these simple word replacements:

Use the word “challenges” rather than “problems”Talk about difficult or new situations as opportunities to grow and learnAcknowledge stressful situations and talk about helpful actions such as prayer, talking, and habits to address themAvoid using negative “always” and “never,” and acknowledge difficult seasons with hopefulnessAffirm with your children that you can thrive in tough situationsTalk to yourself with love and care, just as you would to a friend. Capture and replace negative self-talk with positive

Using more positive words can transform your thoughts and attitude, personally, within your household, and within your school.

6. Embrace “Failure”

One big way we can change our words and perspectives for less stress back to school is to embrace “failure.” When we try hard things, we might fail. Failure can simply be a sign that your student is pushing themselves.

Ask, what did you fail at today? What did you try that was hard? How can you learn from it? Are you going to try again?

As we embrace failure rather than fear it, the world opens up and all of us can become more willing to take on challenges!

7. Do Less

If you’re like many parents, you may bring some of the stress onto yourself by loading up your schedule and your kids’.

Maybe your kids are bouncing off the walls and you need them to burn off energy in a lot of activities. A healthy amount of activities is very positive if they are available in your area and you’re comfortable with them. However, an overload can cause anxiety, lack of sleep, fatigue, and more.

Or, maybe it’s your own activities that overload your schedule. Decide which promotes health and peace within you, and which causes extra stress.

Never be afraid to say “no” to a busy schedule for the sake of your family’s health and well-being.

8. Prepare for the Next Day

Much of healthy parenting is instilling healthy habits into your kids.

You have the power to make school mornings significantly more peaceful with a simple habit: prepare the night before.

Make evening preparations a non-negotiable priority. Set out clothes. Pack the backpacks or organize the learning area. Prepare lunches and snacks.

This simple step can make a huge difference.

9. The Gratitude Habit

No matter how the school day went, the practice of daily gratitude can change everything. In fact, practicing gratitude has been proven to support decreased cortisol and stress levels.

You can be thankful for the challenges and opportunities to do better.Thank God for the opportunity to learn and interact (in whatever way interaction is occurring).Be thankful for the chance to face this together.

In fact, teaching your kids to keep a simple gratitude journal could be one of the best lessons of the year.

10. Know Your Kids’ Screen Time Habits

It’s not surprising that screen time and social media affect students’ stress (8). What is surprising is how diligent parents now have to be to become aware of excessive use.

Mobile devices have opened up a whole new world of accessibility to screens 24-hours per day. Parents have to be aware and ready to limit it and tackle issues.

If your student has access to screens, consider taking them out of bedrooms (phones can be docked in a central place). Set time limits on devices (you can make the internet and apps inaccessible at a specific time, for example). Learn about current apps, content, and healthy digital habits on sites like braveparenting.com.

11. Sleep More

No matter the situation, our stress levels and mental health can be improved with adequate sleep. In fact, adults should all aim to get 7-9 hours of good quality sleep each night. Kids should generally aim for 8-10 hours each night, depending on their age.

While adequate sleep is not always easy or even feasible, 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 (9), making the sleep-stress cycle a potential threat to health.

By aiming for less stress and more sleep, you can encourage less stress back to school this year.

12. Adults: Consider Nature’s Stress Relief

Have you considered natural stress relief like hemp oil? As a part of a healthy lifestyle, both mentally and physically, it’s worth a look. In fact, it has been well studied and accepted. Hemp oil, especially nano-particle oils, is different from many other plant-based compounds. It:

Supports healthy, stable moods (1)Promotes stress relief and normalized cortisol levelsSupports comfortable, healthy joints (2)Encourages healthy sleep habits (3)Promotes healthy skin with fewer irregularities and blemishes (4)Supports healthy brain and nervous system functions (5) Encourages healthy cardiovascular functions and normalized inflammatory actions (6)

Nano-particle hemp oil like Dr. Colbert’s Nano-Science Hemp Oil can be a great tool for a less stress back to school!

Bottom Line

Back to school doesn’t have to be high level stress. It’s a new season, new opportunity, and new adventure for everyone involved. Enjoy it! For more tips, try these additional stress busters. And, use our less stress back to school strategies throughout this school year!

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Keto Smores on National S’mores Day

It’s National Smores Day! If you’re eating a low-carb diet, you may think you have to skip it. But, you’d be wrong. This year, we’ve got Keto Smores! In fact, these Keto Smores have only 3 grams of net carbs each. While they make lack sugars and carbs, they definitely don’t lack flavor.Keto Zone eaters rejoice! You’ll never miss out on National Smores Day again! Keto Smores on National Smores Day

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups almond flour1/4 cup granulated Swerve Sweetener1/2 teaspoon cinnamon1/2 teaspoon real vanilla extract1/4 teaspoon sea salt1/4 cup organic butter, melted3/4 cup whipping cream4 ounces sugar-free dark chocolate chips (try ChocZero or Lily’s)3 organic large egg whites at room temperature1/4 tsp cream of tartarPinch sea salt6 tablespoons powdered Swerve Sweetener1/2 teaspoons real vanilla extractInstructionsFirst make the crust. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Line a 9×9 square baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some paper overhanging the pan in order to remove easily later.Combine the almond flour, sweetener, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt in a large bowl.Stir in the melted butter until well combined.Press dough into the bottom of prepared baking pan.Bake 12 to 15 minutes, until just beginning to brown on the edges. Remove and let cool.Meanwhile preparing filling. Bring the cream to a simmer in a medium saucepan. Remove from heat.Mix in chocolate chips. Allow to set for 5 minutes, then whisk in until smooth.Spread chocolate cream over the cooled crust and refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour.Lastly, prepare topping. Preheat oven to 300 degrees F.Beat egg whites with cream of tartar and salt until frothy in a large bowl.While beaters are still going, slowly add the sweetener and vanilla extract. Continue to beat until stiff peaks form.Spread over the cooled filling and crust. Swirl with a spoon to make peaks.Bake 20 minutes or until topping is golden and just barely firm to the touch.Refrigerate at least another hour to firm up, then gently lift out by parchment paper edges and cut into squares. Serves 16.

Nutrition Information (per bar): 158 calories, 14.5 grams fat, 2.9 grams net carbs (5.5 grams carbs, 2.6 grams fiber), 3.6 grams protein

Why Make Keto Smores on National Smores Day?

Sure, smores are always great. However, just one regular smore can take you right out of the Keto Zone®. In fact, a typical smore has 46 grams of carbs and 24 grams of sugar!

Buy one commercially, and you’ll not only be loaded down with carbohydrates, but also with chemical, inflammatory, unhealthy, ultra-processed ingredients. For example, Keebler Smores Cookies contain:

SUGAR, VEGETABLE OIL (PALM, PALM KERNEL AND SOYBEAN OIL WITH TBHQ FOR FRESHNESS), BLEACHED WHEAT FLOUR, MALTODEXTRIN, COCOA, WHOLE WHEAT FLOUR, CONTAINS 2% OR LESS OF CORN SYRUP, MOLASSES, COCOA PROCESSED WITH ALKALI, NATURAL AND ARTIFICIAL FLAVORS, LEAVENING (BAKING SODA, SODIUM ACID PYROPHOSPHATE, MONOCALCIUM PHOSPHATE), SOY LECITHIN, SALT, PEANUT BUTTER (PEANUTS, PALM OIL), WHEY.

This National Smores Day, you do NOT want soybean oil, corn syrup, or artificial flavors.

Instead, make our Keto Smores and enjoy a tasty treat made with real-food ingredients, and almost no sugar!

Bottom Line

It’s National S’mores Day, so join in the fun! While it may take a bit of time and effort, make our Keto Smores for you new favorite treat! Just 3 grams of net carbs, and all the delicious flavor!

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