Back from Europe

Well, the hubs and I just spent a glorious 14 days in Europe. First we enjoyed the Swiss Alps, then we went on to Florence, Rome, Pompeii and Positano. While the trip was AMAZING, I have to admit, I'm a little carbbed out (is that even a word??). We had pizza and pasta every day, along with gelato and usually some type of pastry. It was delicious of course, but we are ready to debloat and get some fruits and veggies in our systems. Instead of eating completely like rabbits over the next few days, we decided to do a 3-day Shakeology cleanse :)

What does this consist of? Well, we drink 3 shakes a day, and have a salad. This is not something long term by any means- not enough calories! But for a short period of time, adding in 3 shakes is like supplementing an additional 15 plates of salad EACH DAY! Talk about some nutrients. Yesterday went well and surprisingly, I wasn't even hungry. My 3 shakes filled me up and the salad (I threw on blueberries and some chicken) was delicious. I felt a little headachy, and realized I probably didn't drink enough water for all the fiber I was consuming, so I won't make that mistake today.

Many people question why Shakeology. I hear that it's too expensive, or it doesn't work. I for one can vouch for it. Before I was ever a coach, I drank the shakes daily. Was I paid to do so? No. I drank it because it keeps me healthy (haven't been sick once this year!), and keeps my digestive system on track. So, I will keep everyone updated on the 3 day cleanse and how it goes :)    

Protein Powder Review

Aghhhh!! It has been WAY too long since I have written a blog, and I sincerely apologize to my followers. Work has been overwhelming as has life :P  I am happy to report that I am still working out 5-6x weekly and tracking my macros at least, haha.  I have several articles that are in the works thanks to my current nutrition class, but I'll start with one that I think most people can benefit from...protein powders! Eeek what's in yours?? I had to review a few for my class, so here is a brief overview of 4 that are pretty popular and commonly found on grocery shelves nation wide. If there is one you'd like to me review, just let me know. And in the future...know your labels!! It is also a good idea to do some research on something like this before you buy...even if just to make sure it tastes good :)

• One popular one that has recently hit the stores is Vega Sport. It is a brand I have been using for about a year on an occasional basis. It is a plant-based protein that contains 134 calories per 36g scoop as well as 25g of protein. The ingredients are impressive: pea protein, sacha inchi protein, sprouted brown rice protein, L-glutamine, and a digestive enzyme blend. This is a protein that I frequently recommend to friends. Taste: 4.5/5  Overall score: 5/5
• Another popular one on the market is Garden of Life Raw protein; however, this has been in the news lately for having high levels of metals. Like Vega, it is a plant-based protein that contains no soy, dairy, or gluten. The ingredients are also very similar with sprouted brown rice protein, quinoa, flax seed, chia seed, and stevia for sweetening. In the past I have used this protein, and even with the controversy surrounding its level of metals, it is still one I would suggest.  Each scoop is 90 calories and offers 17g of protein, which is a little less than the 20g recommended in several studies. Taste: 2.5/5  Overall score: 4/5
• Another protein powder that is big in the fitness industry is Cellucor. I’ll admit, I’ve used it and I love the flavors, but the ingredients are less than stellar. In addition to why protein isolate, it has sucralose and ‘natural and artificial flavors.’ It comes in a variety of flavors and contains 120 calories per 33g scoop and 25g of protein. I don’t think it is as bad as some unnatural protein powders on the market, but it certainly is not the best.  Taste: 4.5/5  Overall score: 3.5/5
• Finally, another top named protein powder is Muscle Milk, which I will definitely not be using in the future. The packaging is misleading from the moment I read it—the nutrition facts are based on 2 scoops, not one. For a 2-scoop serving, there are 310 calories and 32g of protein. The ingredients are endless. In addition to a whey protein blend it contains maltodextrin, soluble corn fiber, fructose, as well as several other ingredients that I am not even sure of what they are. This is definitely not a powder I would recommend. Taste 4.5/5  Overall score: 2/5

Oh, and on another note...I have a website! Like my blog, it is a bit neglected at the moment, but I promise that my posts will become more frequent in the next few months. I also have a post on milk if you're interested. Stop by anytime! www.nutrientwise.org