Can Coconut Oil Pulling Improve Your Dental Health?

In recent years, coconut oil has gained a reputation for being something of a “superfood.” Not only is it an excellent source of heart-healthy fats, but it is also loaded with nutrients and excellent for cooking. Aside from the nutrition-related benefits of this type of oil, there is another major benefit that you may not be aware of.

Coconut oil is great for oil pulling, a technique that can be used to improve dental health and prevent tooth decay. The truth is that this technique is not new – it dates back at least 3,000 years as a component of Ayurvedic medicine. If you are just hearing about this oil for the first time, however, you may want to learn a little bit more about it before you give this technique a try.

What Is Coconut Oil, and Where Do You Get It?

Coconut oil is exactly what it sounds like – an edible oil derived from coconuts. You cannot just open up a coconut and scoop out the oil, however. This type of oil is manufactured by pressing the meat of matured coconuts to extract the oil. Unlike vegetable oils, coconut oil is solid at room temperature due to its high saturated fat content. Because it is high in saturated fat, it oxidizes slowly, so it won’t go bad as quickly as vegetable oils.

This healthy oil has become very popular in recent years, so you can probably find it in the baking aisle at your local grocery store. If you can’t find it there, try a health food store or just order it online. The best kind to use is virgin coconut oil; if you really want the good stuff, look for cold-pressed virgin oil.

Step-by-Step Guide to Oil Pulling

The term “oil pulling” is a little misleading, because it doesn’t require you to physically pull anything – you will actually be swishing the oil around in your mouth. Studies have shown that pulling with coconut oil not only helps to kill the microorganisms that contribute to bad breath, but also helps protect your mouth against plaque and gingivitis. So how does it work? Follow the steps below to try this technique for yourself:

1. Measure out 1 to 2 teaspoons of coconut oil onto a spoon.
2. Add a few drops of therapeutic-grade oregano essential oil or a healthy mouth blend (this step is optional).
3. Take the mixture by mouth and swish it around for 20 minutes.
4. As you swish, the oil will mix with your saliva, and it will become thicker in consistency and milky white in color.
5. When you are finished, spit the oil into the trashcan, not down the sink – you should also avoid swallowing the oil, because your body will just reabsorb the bacteria you’ve worked so hard to remove.
6. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm water or warm saltwater.
7. Brush your teeth well to remove any remaining bacteria.

If it seems like 20 minutes is a long time to you, that’s because it is. Don’t worry if you can’t make it for the full 20 minutes the first time – you may need to start with 5 minutes, then work your way up to the full 20 minutes. Swishing for 5 or 10 minutes will provide some dental benefits, but the key is to swish for the full 20 in order to break through accumulated plaque and bacteria in your mouth.

Oil pulling is not meant to be a replacement for regular dental hygiene practices, like brushing and flossing, and you should still see the dentist every six months for a routine cleaning and polishing.

Additional Benefits of Coconut Oil

This type of oil is not just great for pulling – it also contains a variety of essential nutrients and has the potential to provide other health benefits as well. One tablespoon of this wonderful oil contains about 117 calories as well as 14 grams of fat. Of those 14 grams, 12 grams are saturated fat, 0.8 grams are mono-unsaturated, and 0.2 grams are polyunsaturated. At this point, you may be confused – especially if you have been led to believe that saturated fat is always bad.

The type of saturated fat found in coconut oil consists of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), like capric acid, lauric acid, caprylic acid, and myristic acid. Most of the fats found in your diet are likely long-chain fatty acids (LCTs), which are metabolized by the body in a very different way than MCTs. Medium-chain triglycerides are easily digested and absorbed by the body as a quick source of energy, whereas other types of fat are absorbed more slowly and stored in the body.

Not only is oil from coconuts an excellent source of fuel for the body, but it is also great for your hair and skin. This type of oil helps promote healthy hair growth, and it will make your hair shiny and silky smooth. If your hair is dry or brittle due to protein loss, this wonderful oil can also help reduce that loss and restore the natural beauty of your hair.

When massaged into the skin, coconut oil acts as a powerful moisturizer, which protects your skin against dryness and flaking – it also helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles, sagging skin, and other signs of aging. This type of oil is commonly found in natural skin care products, and it can also be used as a treatment for skin problems, like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.

By now, you may be wondering how it is possible that you haven’t been using coconut oil before now. Not only is it a powerful agent for promoting dental health, but it is loaded with healthy nutrients and has the potential to provide a vast number of health benefits as well. Do yourself a favor: Pick up a bottle of cold-pressed virgin coconut oil today and get started with oil pulling and other beauty regimens using this powerful superfood.

source https://dietunion.com/coconut-oil-pulling/

Is Abidexin Really the All Natural Way to Fat Loss Fast?

Losing weight is tough. Losing fat is tougher.

When you start with a lot of weight to lose, it can be easier to shit it fast. When you’re getting down to your last few pounds, or you don’t have a lot to lose in the first place, it can be so much harder to get rid of a lot of weight quickly. It takes so much more time.

This is because fat gets stubborn. It’s usually the fat that’s either been there for a long time or is considered to be in some of your last stores, so your body isn’t keen to part with it that quickly.

Either way, it can be hard.

It can even be tough to start losing weight and keep yourself motivated if you do not see the kind of results that you expected. It’s at times like all of these that I always think we need a little help.

There is, of course, a reason to try and do it all yourself and see how you get on and I do believe that can work. But if you’ve been working hard for months and it’s all slowing down now, or even you’ve been trying for weeks, and nothing seems to be shifting, a little helping hand could make you feel sane again.

You can invest in a personalized diet plan and hire a trainer, but sometimes you’ll see the same results you’ve been struggling with all on your own. If you’re already sticking to a great diet plan that has worked wonders for you so far and continuing to work with your trainer, but not seeing any further results, it could be time to turn to the supplements.

There are so many different supplements available for all sorts of things – weight gain, weight loss, and even overall wellbeing, but there are also some that can help to speed up the process of fat loss. They’re generally referred to as Fat Burners. Not all are safe, and not all are dangerous, but it’s exciting to find out about some of the more mainstream products that seem to be doing exactly as they promise, like Abidexin.

What is Abidexin

Abidexin is a fat burner. It’s an all-natural weight loss formula that’s made in America and can be bought online in different package options. This includes deals on their Abidexin 72 Hour Cleanse coming free with your order, which is worth thinking about if you’re interested in buying the product. As I’ll go into later, I got one bottle free with my order.

It works to reduce fat and curb cravings so that you don’t end up overeating and counteracting the effects of taking it. Abidexin aims to reduce fat by working with your metabolism. It effectively speeds it up so that the body can burn fat quicker than without taking Abidexin. It also increases energy levels and focus, without giving you that awful jittery feeling that some fat burning products can do.

Another thing that I like about Abidexin is that they offer a 90 Day Guarantee. So, if you do like the products for whatever reason, you can return it. All you need to do is contact their customer service team with your details, and they will talk you through how to return the product to them.

How Does It Work

The Abidexin itself comes in the form of tablets or caplets, whatever you feel best calling them. You then take a dosage of 1-2 capsules at a time, 30 minutes before breakfast and lunch. They do strongly recommend not going over this dosage. Then, the bottle will last you 15-30 days depending on which dosage you go with.

Then, the Abidexin gets to work with your metabolism just like I explained before and also stops some of the hunger cravings that we all get, causing us to eat more. You should effectively notice a reduction in appetite and better energy levels.

You will need to make sure that you’re exercising while taking Abidexin however. It was formulated to work alongside a healthy diet and exercise, so if you’re not planning on eating well and exercising, Abidexin may not be for you. If you don’t currently have a healthy diet or do not exercise, you will need to make some lifestyle changes while using Abidexin – or even before you get yourself used to it.

How Did It Go

I have been taking Abidexin for 30 days now (well, a little bit over by the time I publish this review) and so far, so good. I do have energy, and I’m not feeling jittery. I have noticed a reduction in fat along the way too. I tend to measure my success with my image, rather than weight, so I have been taking progress pictures weekly to understand how I am getting on really.

But, for the purpose of the review, I have also weighed myself, and I have lost 7 pounds by using Abidexin, which is incredible. I think I had around 10 pounds left to lose on my journey and now I am so close. I have of course been using pictures to document the progress more, and I am looking more toned around my waist and thighs too.

I think I will continue to use Abidexin because I am so impressed with the results. I wouldn’t say it’s easy, but the results make it worthwhile. Therefore, I am going to rate Abidexin 4 out of 5.

source https://dietunion.com/abidexin-reviews/

Boost Your Health with the Benefits of Coconut Oil

This beautiful oil has recently surfaced in many skincare and hair products within western society. Coconut oil is not a trend; it’s been a staple food in various cultures for many years. It not only tastes great, but it provides incredible benefits for your overall health.

Although coconut oil is excellent for both your skin and hair, it’s also notorious for relieving stress, boosting immune function, aiding in heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney ailments, and diabetes. It also helps individuals lose weight, improve digestion, and so much more.

A Little Coconut Oil Background

The benefits of coconut oil have been documented for approximately 4,000 years. It has maintained its reputation as a sustainable superfood. Due to the solid source of plant-based fat, many cultures rely on this food source for energy and medicine. Although it has ‘nut’ in its name, it’s more closely related to olives, dates, and mangoes.

Coconuts are a staple food for many individuals across the world. This is especially true for those that live in Indonesia, Philippines, India, Sri Lanka, Asia, the Caribbean, Papua New Guinea, and many other locations and cultures.

Not only have people used coconut as an energy source for years, but they have used it to heal. For example, in World War II, soldiers would receive an intravenous of coconut water. The IV tube would be pierced into a coconut and administered to their vein. Due to the sugars, essential amino acids, and electrolytes, it’s an incredible, sterile way to stay hydrated.

Within western society, coconut oil has been frowned upon within the media. The claim has been that coconut oil is harmful due to the high levels of saturated fat. This propaganda was led by the soy and corn oil industry. Our understanding has been skewed regarding the benefits coconut provides.

Now, people realize that the benefits spanning thousands of years into history, most certainly have merit. Individuals that live in the South Pacific consume 60% of their calories from coconuts. However, there is no evidence of heart disease. This cannot be ignored.

Boost Your Health with Coconut Oil

Although coconut oil is mainly composed of saturated fats, don’t freak out. This does not automatically mean ‘heart attack.’ Review the benefits below, understanding the importance of coconut oil within your diet. It’s something to seek, not avoid.

1. Healthy Heart

We’ll start with your heart because this is where many people are concerned. Yes, there are saturated fats, but there’s also a lot of lauric acid present. Lauric acid makes up about 50% of the saturated fats found in coconut oil. This acid works to lower your blood pressure and cholesterol, essentially preventing heart conditions. It is also noted in maintaining artery health.

2. Skin and Hair Care

Coconut oil is an incredible conditioner. It leaves your hair feeling healthy and looking shiny. When applied, coconut oil provides your hair with essential proteins. This counteracts any damage while nourishing and protecting your hair further. If you suffer from dandruff, massage coconut oil onto your scalp. It will moisturize dry skin, which helps to eliminate dandruff.

Just as it tends to your scalp, coconut oil is great for any area of your skin. Due to its effects on dry, flaky skin, it’s a great treatment for many skin conditions. If you suffer from eczema for example, coconut oil can do wonders for your skin health. Since coconut oil is so high in antioxidants, it helps to reduce the signs of aging as well.

3. Weight Loss

We are currently facing an epidemic regarding obesity. We eat far too many refined and processed foods. Within western society, we’re overfed, yet we’re hungry for nutrients. It’s not just about calorie counting, it’s about where you’re sourcing your calories from.

Due to its effect on the thyroid and endocrine system, coconut oil can increase your body’s metabolism. This allows individuals to burn more energy, helping aid in weight loss. It can also reduce your appetite, so you do not overeat. Coconut oil makes you feel fuller, longer. It also slows down digestion, while improving the absorption of other vitamins, amino acids, and minerals.

4. Healing Abilities

Applying coconut oil to wounds not only works, but it works well. If an area is infected, coconut oil prevents dust, bacteria, fungi, and viruses from entering the wound. It amazingly has anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and beneficial anti-fungal properties.

This is why coconut oil is excellent for preventing influenza, hepatitis, ulcers, UTI’s, throat infections, athlete’s foot, diaper rash, and so much more. Consuming coconut oil provides your immune system with the boost it needs to keep you healthy and active.

5. Brain Health

Our brain does a lot for us each and everyday. It’s one of the most crucial organs and needs the right amount of attention. Our brain only accounts for about 2% of our body weight, yet it uses 20% of our daily energy. It’s crucial that you provide your brain with the energy it needs, so that it performs optimally.

Our brain uses glucose or fat as an energy source. Carbs are broken down into glucose, while fat is broken down into ketones. An incredible source of ketones come from medium-chain triglycerides (which are found in coconut oil).

Although our brains can run on glucose, ketones have been shown to restore and renew nerve damage and malfunctioning. Repaired neurons have even been documented after damage already occurred. This is exciting for Alzheimer’s research, as patients suffer from a lack of firing between neurons.

Although research is still being conducted, this is believed to be the cause of memory loss. Therefore, coconut oil may help prevent degenerative cognitive disorders.

As you can see, coconut oil provides some incredible benefits. Although you can improve your health with coconut oil, you need to focus on all aspects of your diet and lifestyle. Coconut oil is not a magic tool to reverse the effects of six cheeseburgers a week.

You need to practice a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Along with coconut oil, consume more complex carbohydrates, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and fish. Stay active and sleep well. And remember, coconut oil is not just for your hair, it positively affects your heart, liver, kidneys, skin, brain, and so much more. Coconut is a ‘superfood’ for a reason. It helps boost your overall health.

source https://dietunion.com/benefits-of-coconut-oil/

What Are Chia Seeds, and Why Should You Care?

Chia seeds come from the Salvia hispanica plant, a flowering herb that belongs to the same family as mint. Humans have consumed these seeds for centuries – in fact, their use dates all the way back to ancient Mayan and Aztec times. The name “chia” derives from the ancient Mayan word for “strength,” and Mayan folklore suggests that chia seeds harbor powerful energy stores.

These tiny seeds may not look like much, but they are loaded with nutrients and have the potential to deliver a variety of health benefits. These seeds are not only highly nutritious but highly versatile as well. The whole chia can be used to create delicious desserts, like healthy chocolate pudding, and the ground seeds can be added to a fruit smoothie for a boost of protein.

If you are interested in learning more about these powerful seeds, keep reading!

Nutritional Benefits of Chia Seeds

A 1-ounce (28-gram) serving of whole chia seeds contains about 138 calories in addition to a whopping 11 grams of fiber, 9 grams of healthy fats, and 4 grams of protein. A serving this size contains about 30 percent of your daily recommended allowance for both manganese and magnesium as well as 27 percent of your daily recommended allowance for phosphorus.

These tasty seeds are a great source of calcium, and they contain considerable amounts of potassium, vitamin B3, zinc, and vitamin B1. For as small as these seeds are, those are some pretty impressive numbers. As a bonus, chia seeds are technically considered a “whole grain” food, and they are naturally gluten-free and non-GMO.

Potential Benefits for Weight Loss

While these seeds are not a magical weight loss supplement, they do contain certain nutrients and nutritional properties that may help to support healthy weight loss. For one thing, chia seeds are loaded with dietary fiber. The dietary fiber content of these seeds enables them to absorb up to 12 times their weight in water – as the seeds absorb water, they expand and produce a gel-like substance. This gel takes up space in your stomach, leaving you feeling fuller for longer than you would if you chowed down on a high-carb food, like bread or pasta.

The longer you feel full, the less likely you are to snack on unhealthy foods, which could lead to a calorie surplus and potential weight gain!

Another benefit of these little seeds that may help promote weight loss is their protein content. When you think of foods like nuts and seeds, you may not realize just how much protein they provide. For a 2-tablespoon serving of chia, 4 grams of protein is significant. Additionally, the type of protein found in this type of seeds is high-quality, much better than the kind of protein found in many other plant-based foods.

The protein content of chia may help reduce your temptation to snack by depressing your appetite. Again, these seeds are not a magical weight loss cure, but they do contain some valuable nutrients that, when combined with a healthy diet and exercise, can lead to healthy weight loss.

 

Potential Benefits for Heart Health

When viewing the nutritional information for chia seeds, do not be turned off by the fat content. While it is true that a 1-ounce serving contains 9 grams of fat, all of it is healthy fat. What is the difference between healthy and unhealthy fat? Unhealthy fats, such as saturated fats and trans fats, can clog your arteries and lead to high blood pressure and heart disease. Healthy fats, such as monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids, actually benefit your heart.

Chia seeds also have the potential to lower your triglyceride levels, reduce inflammation, and raise your high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good” cholesterol, levels – all of these factors can contribute to a reduced risk for heart disease.

Potential Benefits for Diabetes

Some studies have been conducted testing the health benefits of these delicious seeds, and one of the most conclusive studies to date involved the effects of chia seeds on people with type 2 diabetes. In this study, patients were given 37 grams of either chia seeds or wheat bran on a daily basis for 12 weeks. At the end of the study, the patients who received the seeds showed a 3- to 6-point reduction in blood pressure levels, a significant 40 percent reduction in hs-CRP (an inflammatory marker), and a slight drop in blood sugar levels.

It may be that the dietary fiber content of chia seeds and the fact that they expand in your stomach, helping to slow the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream, which prevents the spikes in blood sugar levels that can be so dangerous for people with diabetes. A side effect of this slow absorption rate is a slow but continuous release of energy into the bloodstream.

Other Benefits of Chia Seeds

Another benefit of these little seeds is that, due to their high calcium content, they can help to promote bone health. Gram for gram, the calcium content of these seeds is higher than most dairy products – even cow’s milk! For this reason, these seeds are a great source of calcium for people who do not consume dairy – they are also a good source of vegetarian protein for people who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet.

Compared to other seeds, such as flax seeds, chia seeds are very easy to digest – they do not need to be ground up first. These tasty seeds can be beneficial for athletes who need to fuel up on carbohydrates to prepare for endurance events. Folklore suggests that even the ancient Mayans and Aztecs used chia seeds for this purpose.

In addition to all of the nutritional and health benefits of chia seeds that have already been discussed, another advantage is that they are easy to add to your diet. Add a tablespoon of chia seeds to your fruit smoothie or sprinkle them over a bowl of cereal for a boost of protein and fiber. You can also mix these seeds with water or milk to create a delicious pudding.

No matter how you use them, chia seeds are an excellent source of nutrition and health benefits.

source https://dietunion.com/benefits-of-chia-seeds/

Inch Loss and Fat Burning with Ultra 90

To me, there’s nothing I love more than to work on my body. I have been working at it for some time now and I’ve learned one very important thing – our bodies can’t reach their ultimate peak condition on their own.

I don’t mean that they need a magic trick or anything illegal, they just need a guided helping hand.

I tried for years to stay in shape on my own. Running and sticking to healthy foods isn’t enough and I learned the hard way. It takes so much more. I started working out quite a lot, using weights and trying to fit in as many high intensity workouts as possible too. It’s tough, but it’s what it needs to happen.

I definitely struggle to stay on track on my own and need a lot of motivation and focus when I’m in a stick diet and workout phase. I’d love to say that I work with a personal trainer and a nutritionist, but I don’t – it’s just me, all the time and it’s tough. Really tough.

So, as I’m sure you can imagine, this is why I need a little help. I eat clean meats with my macros on point pretty much all of the time, I do cardio and work out 5 times a week, but it doesn’t always feel enough.

Sometimes you get to the point where you need a little boost. This is where supplements come in. I try to test out a few different brands and types just to know what suits me best. When I’m doing this, it does also mean I get to review all kinds of things to help out you guys too.

To help me with a bit of boost with fat burning and overall inch loss, I am trying out the Ultra 90 formula.

What is the Ultra 90 Formula

The Ultra 90 formula is a collagen and protein formula that really helps with fat and inch loss. It contains Tonalin CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) which is a polyunsaturated fatty acid which is found in most of our natural meat and dairy products. But, as we eat foods that are lower in fat, the amount of Tonalin CLA that we get naturally, decreases.

So, by adding the Ultra 90 to your daily diet means that you get a top up of the Tonalin CLAs. The formula that Ultra 90 created here is specifically blended in order to achieve a reduction in the amount of fat being stored in the body, muscle mass maintenance and a prevention of those now newly empty fat cells of filling back up again.

It all sounds great to me and something I was excited to give the Ultra 90 formula a try.

How Does It Work

So the Ultra 90 formula comes in a gel caplet formula that you can take at night or in the morning. They have the options of the daytime formula and the nighttime formula. The system itself is a 90-day programme, not a typical 30 days as some supplements are, so it’s great to know that you’re covered for at least 12 weeks of your diet and workout regime.

For the process of my review, I am using both the daytime and nighttime Ultra 90 formulas so that I can take them both during my 90-day programme.

When I’ve been reading up on the Ultra 90 formula programme, it says that the nighttime formula should be taken on an empty stomach. So you need to stop eating and drinking (except water) 3 hours before you go to bed. Then, you can take 3 of the gel caplets and go right to bed. Then, for the daytime formula, you take it as soon as you wake up and then wait one hour before you eat.

What I do also like is that there is also the option to take it before you workout for extra effects. In order to break down the lactic acid in your muscles when you’re working out, you can take the Ultra 90 formula half an hour before you start.

I do also like that you don’t have to take it for just the 90 days and then you’re done. With Ultra 90, you can take it for as long as you like – so I am excited because if it does work, I’ll be sticking with it.

And the Verdict

I have to say, I am impressed. I find it hard to see how I am getting on with diets and workouts, because I try to be quite good with what I do, but when you find a supplement that just adds a little extra, you know it’s doing some good.

So far, I have been taking the Ultra 90 for 60 days, but I really feel like I can comment on it because it’s been so long. I feel great and I do think that the added CLAs have given my whole body a bit of a boost. I feel leaner and in total, I have lost an additional 6 pounds in weight – which for me, is a lot! I would only have another 2-3 pounds to drop now to be at my goal weight for the holiday season.

I’m definitely going to try and keep up with the supplements for a while now. I don’t think I want them to aid me in weight loss for much longer. But I think they are aiding me in health as well. Overall, I am definitely going to have to give the Ultra 90 daytime formula and nighttime formula a huge 5 out of 5!

source https://dietunion.com/ultra-90-reviews/

CTS360 Promises a Healthier You – But Does it Work?

Everyone has a different “rock bottom” when it comes to weight loss. But one thing is certain, when it comes, people will go to almost any lengths to lose weight and get healthy.

Unfortunately, many opt for pills and promises of a quick fix, both of which usually come with a high price tag. So, when CTS360 was introduced, the weight loss program promised not only that it could help shed pounds, but increase metabolism and energy while supressing the appetite, and loads of people jumped on board.

But, are they on the right track… or a very pricey train bound for nowhere? Let’s take a closer look.

Brand Overview

Complete Nutrition began in 2004 and is based out of Omaha, Nebraska. It’s been one of the fastest growing franchises in the U.S., with a 2013 revenue of $95.3 million dollars.

While their main thrust began with brick-and-mortar stores, they have since branched out into online retail sales of nutritional supplements aimed at weight loss management, sports nutrition, and general health.

According to the Complete Nutrition website:

Complete Nutrition also works with various health care providers, nutritionists and chemists to develop the highest-quality formulations for supplements. These products are exclusive to Complete Nutrition and serve as a customer’s best weapon in boosting their results and reaching their goals.

Soon after the company started, they released the CTS360 program, a series of supplements purportedly designed to aid not only in weight loss, but energy, metabolism, and appetite suppression, among other healthful goals.

Products and Claims

The CTS360 program consists of 3 main products, each as described on the company’s website:

• CTS360® Maximum ($69.99) is the strongest fat burner in the CTS360® line and the top-selling product online. It supports energy, fat-burning, and appetite for maximum results
• CTS360 Night ($39.99) enhances daytime weight loss by providing stimulant-free digestion and a soothing cleanse, all during a restful night’s sleep.*
  • Improve Sleep Quality*
  • Stimulant-Free Digestion & Soothing Cleanse*
  • Relieve Stress & Fatigue*
• CTS360 Advanced ($49.99) is level 2 of the Complete Toning System. It is an exclusive blend of boosters for experienced weight loss supplement users.* Increase your weight loss with the best thermogenic fat burner on the market.
  • Boost Metabolism & Burn Belly Fat*
  • Control Appetite & Suppress Cravings *
  • Reduce Stress & Water Weight Gain*

Regimen Recommendations and Product Warnings

Here are the regimen recommendations and product warnings, as listed on the company’s website:

• CTS360 Maximum:
  • SUGGESTED USE: Take 1 capsule in the morning and 1 capsule in the afternoon with food and 6-8 oz. of water.*
  • WARNING: Do not exceed recommended serving size. Use only as directed. Not intended for use by persons younger than 18 or by those with a serious medical condition. Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Please consult your physician before using this product. Do not use if tamper resistant seal is broken.
  • NOTICE: Any person who participates in sports and/or any other competitor in sports who is subject to the WADA – Anti-Doping Code, or is subject to similar codes or other rules regarding the use of supplements in sports, should not use this product. Users are responsible to consulting with a medical provider and reviewing all ingredients prior to use. Users are responsible for complying with all laws and codes regarding participation in sports
• CTS360 Night:
  • SUGGESTED USE: Take 1 capsule no less than 30 minutes before bedtime (start with 1 capsule to assess your tolerance and gradually increase your serving size if needed).
  • WARNING: Do not exceed more than 3 capsules in a 24 hour period. Not intended for use by persons under 18 or by those with a serious medical condition. If you suffer from insomnia, asthma, sleep apnea, are pregnant, nursing or taking any prescription medications, talk to your physician before taking this product. Do not use if tamper resistant seal is broken.
• CTS360 Advanced:
  • SUGGESTED USE: Take 1 capsule in the morning and 1 capsule in the afternoon with food and water.
  • WARNING: Do not exceed recommended serving size. Use only as directed. Not intended for use by persons under 18 or by those with a serious medical condition. Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Please consult your physician before using this product. Do not use if tamper-resistant seal is broken.

Here’s one thing we noticed. See those little * following all of the product claims? In fine print, at the bottom of each page, it tells you that those * mean that none of those statements have been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

What’s the big deal, you ask?

Well, it simply means that Complete Nutrition can claim just about anything, and they are safe doing so, as long as they include that *.  The claims they make for each product sound great. In fact, they sound like just what someone who was desperate to lose weight would want to hear. The problem is, none of those claims have been substantiated, or tested or, most importantly, proven.

Reviews

On each product in the CTS360 program, the reviews (as listed on their website) are split. As of the time of writing this review, the CTS360 Maximum has 11 reviews listed, most to be positive, but almost all list extreme “jitters” or “jittery feeling” as a side effect. Some also claim to have increased thirst and sweating. Only a few reviews listed claimed they did not see any weight loss.

The CTS360 Night had 5 reviews listed, and all 5 were positive (one even claimed that this product somehow helped their back pain at night?).

CTS360 Advanced also had 5 reviews listed, and 3 of them claimed the product did not work at all.

It was somewhat troubling that for products that had been around for quite a while, we could not find many, if any, reviews on them listed elsewhere online. That being said, 21 reviews do not provide anyone with enough information on which to base any conclusion of effectiveness, or lack thereof.

Overall Rating

On the positive side, the website looked to be well put together, and the products were nicely packaged and presented. We also like the fact that each product had the “Supplement Info” (contents, ingredients) clearly listed. The website includes helpful tabs for healthy recipes and healthy living resources (blogs, articles, etc.).

However, there is a downside to CTS360 and the Complete Nutrition website. Firstly, none of the results are documented, and there have been no clinical trials conducted.

Secondly, the reviews are practically non-existent. And even so, the few we found were either inconclusive as to the effectiveness of the program, or complained of negative results (i.e. – jittery, nervousness). Lastly, the CTS360 supplements do not come cheap. Results, if any, may take some time, so you would be looking at not only the cost of reaching your weight loss/health goals, but maintaining them. Oh, and even the Complete Nutrition website clearly states:

Complete Nutrition understands that there is no such thing as a “miracle pill.” Living a healthy lifestyle requires a commitment across the areas of a balanced diet, exercise, rest and hydration, and supplementation.

That means results may only be seen by combining their supplements with diet, exercise, rest, and hydration. So, despite the nice website and packaging and promises, there really are no “miracle pills”…but even if there were, CTS360 would most likely not be listed among them.

Our rating: 2 (out of 5)

Not worth it!

source https://dietunion.com/cts360-reviews/

Review: The Thrive Diet

We know what you’re thinking: “Oh great, just what the world needs…another diet plan.” A quick search of the diet section in your local bookstore will have your head spinning. And a search on the internet? You’ll be there looking for weeks. But usually when a diet begins to pick up steam with a slew of followers and devotees that the average Joe or Jane wanting to pursue a healthier lifestyle will sit up and take notice.

One of the latest such diets to inspire a following is The Thrive Diet, and its promises of reduced stress, weight loss, increased health, and mental clarity have even dedicated dieting carnivores curious as to the effectiveness of this vegan-based plan. But is a healthier life and less stress really as simple as just a few tweaks to your diet? Let’s take a look…

What is it?

The actual website for the diet, Thriveforward.com, does not freely offer much info on neither the diet nor the creator, Brendan Brazier…unless you sign up. We did, however, find more information elsewhere on the web.

According to Livestrong.com:

The Thrive Diet is the brainchild of Brendan Brazier, whose qualifications include being a professional Iron Man triathlete. The diet is based on eating vegan and raw foods as much as possible. Brazier’s goal with the diet is to make healthy eating a way of life that will also allow individuals to improve their athletic performance and achieve mental clarity.

How does it work?

The diet as stated in the book is designed to last 12 weeks, with the idea that the vegan, plant-based plan will develop into a life-long way of eating and living. While on the Thrive Diet, you are able to eat as much as you want of the approved foods, since all the foods are nutrient-dense. You will also be able to eat several smaller meals through the day, since Brazier maintains that it will cut down your appetite and regulate blood sugar.

The main thrust of the diet though deals with stress. According to Health.com:

Limit stress so you burn more fat. The diet is based on nutrient-dense “one-step energy” foods like fruits, vegetables, seeds, and beans, which are broken down easily, limiting stress on the body so you store less fat. You’ll also eliminate other stressors like inadequate sleep, food allergies, pH imbalance, and overstimulation.

Don’t eliminate specific foods at first, just add fruits, vegetables, legumes, and other nutrient-dense choices. You’ll eventually enter a recalibration period where you eliminate caffeine, sugar, processed foods, meat, and grains, and limit starchy veggies. There’s no need to calorie count, but follow the 12-week meal plan and time meals and snacks so you never get too full or hungry.

What does it promise?

Of course, as with all diets, weight loss is promised by following the Thrive Diet. According to the book, you should also expect to see increased energy, improved health, loss of body fat, and maintenance/development of lean muscle. One of the other promises and focuses of the Thrive Diet involves limiting bodily stress, which, the book claims, will also lead to loss of fat.

What can you eat?

Leafy greens are the key to the Thrive Diet. Foods such as asparagus, green beans, peas, zucchini, carrots, and celery, as well as legumes such as beans, lentils, sea vegetables, sweet potatoes, hemp, seeds, nuts, and quinoa are also heavily favored.

According to Health.com:

Each day you’ll eat a big green salad, whole-food smoothie, and a raw energy bar, which you’ll need to make in advance, as all processed foods are off-limits. Your other meals and snacks should contain ample protein, high quality fats, and fiber. Brazier includes lists of staple foods to help you stock your pantry, which include common foods like chickpeas and green beans and more obscure choices like hemp and seaweed… [also] food should be raw or cooked at low temperatures.

What can’t you eat?

The Thrive Diet is extremely limiting in some areas, but this is touted as one of the reasons why it works.

According to Livestrong.com:

You can’t eat any kind of meat, seafood or eggs on the Thrive Diet. Other animal foods, such as milk, cheese, yogurt and ice cream, are also off-limits. Caffeine isn’t allowed either, so you’ll need to skip sodas and caffeinated tea and coffee. You can’t eat refined carbohydrates either, so you’ll need to pass on white bread, white pasta, baked goods, crackers and other carb-heavy snacks. Exercise is also a major part of the diet, and proper pre- and post-exercise nutrition helps aid recovery and improve performance.

Reviews

While there were no reviews visible on the ThriveForward.com website, we did find many experience-based reviews of the book online. Overall, the reviews were positive. Those people who gave the diet high marks seem to be those who already had some experience with vegetarian/vegan eating. Positive reviews cited that they loved the fact that this was a whole foods plant-based diet for athletes, they felt they were getting the fuel their body needed to excel in sport and life. Others identified with the vegan/vegetarian/environmentalism views Brazier expressed in the book.

We even managed to find a few reviews from non-vegan, non-vegetarians who, while still intending to eat meat/fish/poultry, think that eating less of it, and incorporating more of Brazier’s plan, has made them feel healthier mentally and physically.

There were also a fair few negative reviews we found. Of those, many said the diet was simply impractical to how they lived, too difficult to stick to, as well as too expensive to maintain. A few said that they couldn’t stick to the plan because it caused severe problems with ulcer and acid reflux disease (due to the fact that raw foods are harder to digest). Overall though, most of the negative reviews seemed based in the fact that Brendan Brazier is not a clinical nutritionist or scientist, and that many of the theories he puts forward in the book are not only unsupported but untrue. Also, many felt the book and diet were mainly aimed at people who were already healthy and athletic.

Our review

What do we like about the diet? Well, we like the idea that eating better can lead to feeling better (which is generally the point behind any diet). We also like the fact that Brazier includes many recipes in the book as well as on the website (that was one section that did not require you to sign up in order to view it). The Thriveforward.com website also promises that, once a member, you will be able to:

• Learn from experts on how to eat, train and cook to promote optimal health
• Explore video lessons relevant to you—be it energy, sleep, body composition, strength and endurance training, easy ways to prepare plant-based meals at home, or even how to eat more sustainably
• Dive into recipes, meal plans and a wealth of supplemental materials

All of which sounds very helpful, especially when considering some of those trying the diet are complete novices when it comes to the whole vegan/whole foods lifestyle.

However, we found more than a few red flags when researching the Thrive Diet. Brendan Brazier may be a former athlete, but he has not received any nutritional training, nor is he a nutritionist. He has, admittedly, created a diet that “works for him.” And as far as the scientific reports Brazier cites and refers to, despite years of back-and-forth between accredited scientists and nutritionists, there is no conclusive proof that eating a vegan/raw diet is healthier or more effective than any other meat/fish/poultry inclusive diet.

Other red flags involved the fact that the ingredients can be tricky to find, not readily available in most homes, and can also be more expensive.

But, by far, the biggest issue we have with the Thrive Diet is the simple fact that diets containing severe food restrictions rarely work for the long-term. Also, there is some doubt as to whether this diet is balanced enough to foster long-term health. Sure, you can introduce supplements, but there is significant risk when you eliminate entire food groups (ones that did not pose a risk when consumed in appropriate moderation) from your diet.

Basically, while the Thrive Diet may appeal to someone who is already familiar with and enjoys a vegan lifestyle, this plan is not for the larger dieting, health and wellbeing, audience.

Our rating: 2 (out of 5)

Be skeptical!

source https://dietunion.com/thrive-diet-reviews/

How Apple Cider Vinegar Can Change your Life!

Okay, so maybe that’s a bit of a strong statement, but after the amount of hype this stuff is getting lately, it felt completely apt. Apple Cider Vinegar is everywhere. Not only does it seem to be the latest hype about the natural remedy for just about every ailment, but it’s also recommended for around the home and beauty boots too!

Now if that doesn’t deserve a rave about it, I don’t know what does.

When I first started hearing the words apple cider vinegar, I must admit, I was dubious. I guess it’s just something about the name and the whole ‘cider’ thing. But after I did my research, it is just vinegar, filtered in a similar way to alcohol. So I can start to take it all the more serious now.

The ‘vinegar’ aspect doesn’t surprise me in the slightest. My grandparents were forever boasting the benefits of vinegar for just about everything, and now I can only wonder why that craze ever died off (if it ever really did at all?).

I remember my grandmother doing the vast majority of her cleaning with the help of vinegar. And now it just makes sense. Thanks to its properties, vinegar helps to kill bacteria, which apparently makes it great for cleaning.

Antibac-Apple Cider

But it doesn’t just stop there, now that it’s been looked into, apple cider vinegar does wonders as a bacteria for the body too. You know we hear all about those bad bacterias and how nasty they are, closely followed by who we should be helping our good bacterias? Well, apple cider vinegar can do just that.

If it can clean the house, it sure can clean a wound. And it’s been known to, way-way long ago, so who’s to say it wouldn’t act as a good antibacterial agent today too! It was even used for preserving food, so surely that has something to say about just how good it is at fighting bacteria.

While I was reading up, it wasn’t hard before I came across it’s used for little stomach upsets and even sore throats. Which definitely both seem like completely reasonable ideas. Especially when it comes to the digestive system – if this stuff can balance out bacteria and calm an upset stomach down, it’s worthy of its title!

Apple Cider Antioxidants

I guess for me; it was the whole wondering why apple cider vinegar is so good compared to other forms or any other nutritionists favorite for that matter! I soon discovered that, when it’s in its organic and unfiltered form, there are mother proteins found within it, as well as some enzymes alongside all of that good bacteria. That definitely explains some of it.

Then, despite it not containing any vitamins or minerals (aside from a little potassium), it also does contain some amino acids and has antioxidant purposes. Well, the good stuff does anyway. I did spy that some poor forms or those that are not as pure as it comes may not contain any – which makes these kinds seem a little pointless really.

But, it doesn’t seem to stop there. These properties sure have earned themselves some great health benefits!

Health Benefits and Apple Cider

One of the biggest hypes around for apple cider vinegar seems to be its benefit for type 2 diabetes in particular. Because type 2 diabetes tends to mean that the blood sugar is quite high and there are insulin sensitivities, meal times can be quite difficult. But it seems that apple cider vinegar can balance it out with high-carb meals in particular – helping to lower the blood glucose levels as well as the way the body reacts to insulin.

For people with type 2 diabetes, this is definitely positive news. Just a tablespoon or two at mealtimes is all it takes!

Likewise, it’s the lowering of blood sugar that has linked it to weight loss. Apple cider vinegar helps to reduce the appetite, which means that fewer calories are consumed. Many studies have taken place, and it does seem that by using the same amount (a tablespoon or two), satiety can be increased and weight loss, which to me, seems like such an effortless step to take!

Apple cider vinegar has also been linked to both lowering cholesterol, which then reduces the risk of things like heart disease and cancer, and killing cancer cells. Most of the studies for these were done on rats or in test tubes, which doesn’t give us that sound of research, but it’s still something.

Apple Cider Prepared

It can seem a little daunting when you think of working apple cider vinegar into your diet, but it doesn’t have to be. While some have been said to drink it, there are easier and more pleasant ways to incorporate it into your diet.

With salads, vegetables and as a dressing has got to be the easiest. Not only is it a well-done form, but it also will help to keep your health in check – even if it encourages to keep up the vegetable intake. It’s also shown that those who do have apple cider vinegar with salads at meal times do have a reduced risk of heart disease (thanks to a Harvard study) and that’s definitely a positive!

Others choose to dilute a little in water to drink throughout the day, but seeing as it seems apple cider vinegar works better for the body at mealtimes, it seems that sticking to the salad dressing might just be that wonder health benefit we’ve all been looking for.

 

source https://dietunion.com/benefits-of-apple-cider-vinegar/

Isagenix Review – Is It the All Round Brand for a Better, Healthier Life?

Now, you may think that my opening statement is quite strong and it is. I have titled this article like that for a reason. I do want to question if Isagenix is the all-round product range for a healthy lifestyle!

This isn’t something I have done or thought of doing before. I live a relatively healthy lifestyle and enjoy what I do. I exercise and eat well, but I also enjoy my food and don’t limit myself. I take supplements, but only ones that I know are good for me and won’t do me any harm. I have tested so many products over recent years that I feel like I know what is right for me and what works.

If there is one thing I haven’t done, it’s sticking to one brand. It’s just not something I believe in – and that’s the same across the board. I don’t use one brand for my skincare, one brand for my haircare or one brand for my make up – I don’t just buy one brand with my food shopping. I use a whole range for each, and that’s for a reason.

I don’t believe that one brand can be good at everything.

When it comes to my supplements, I have different brands and products for different goals and purposes. I have never been able to use one brand across protein, workout, vitamins, and teas. It doesn’t happen. I haven’t used any that breach outside of these ranges either. They all are different brands, and I have come to like that.

But I am about to challenge myself here, with something I do believe could work.

I have to ask myself because I think it could be if Isagenix is the brand that is about to change all of that. Can Isagenix be the answer to a whole bunch of health issues, from weight management to aging?

Well, let’s think about that for a minute.

What is Isagenix

Isagenix is a health brand. I say this because their product ranges cover a whole range of goals and concerns. From weight loss and management to energy, performance, and aging – they cover it all.

Usually, I would see this as a bad thing. I would think they aren’t all that specialized in one thing and are trying to do too much. BUT, I haven’t this time. Because I started to see the Isagenix pop up everywhere.

As always, I was reading up on the latest news and product releases as well as reviews and doing a bit of research. I saw the Isagenix brand, and a few of their products under weight loss popped up a few times and made a note to go back and take a look. Then, the next day, I saw the same name concerning aging. It was quite strange as this doesn’t usually happen.

So, I decided to look into it a lot more. I’m happy I did – I surprised myself, it was a great find. The Isagenix does have a lot to do with these different fields and from what I can gather, they do it well. Perhaps I should go into that a little more…

What Do They Promise

For this article, I will be talking about weight loss, energy, and aging. There are a lot of reviews on their performance products online if you want them, but I felt like these three topics were most relevant to both me and Diet Union in general – considering we’re talking about health here!

Yes, the brand does work on a multilevel style marketing platform, so users and customers can then go on to sell the products and so on, but the products themselves are worth it (I am contemplating to becoming a distributor myself).

When it comes to weight loss, they have a lot to offer – there are the packs that each work to different goals and then the individual items. I like this – it lets you trial a bunch of things that work together with one end goal, then go on and re-buy when you need to. It also stops you from trying things that you may not like or may not be right for you.

With energy and aging, it’s the same. You get the packs and the individual items. You can tell that you know what works and what customers want, and they go with that.

How Did It Go

So, for my review, I had a HUGE look on site before making my purchases. It did take me ages. I wasn’t sure how I was ever going to decide in the end, but I did, and it was great. Because I wanted to try a few things in a short space of time, I went with the 9-Day Deep Cleansing and Fat Burning System for weight loss, Shake and Shot Pak for energy and finally, the Total Health and Longevity System for aging (I was curious about aging here)!

I have used each of my packs now, and it’s been around 30 days (as some of them lasted 30 days). I got a massive range of shakes, supplements, and snacks to use and I tried not to use them all at the same time, but sometimes this could not be helped.

After just one month, I am impressed. I love the taste of all of my products and ease. It doesn’t feel like a chore, or like I am trying too many things – it’s easy. I feel healthier, energized and like I am on track with my health and fitness routine – some of these products do rival my favorites. For that matter, I have to say that Isagenix is an excellent health and wellness brand for weight, health, and aging and I give them a massive 5 out of 5.

source https://dietunion.com/isagenix-reviews/