YoFiit - Nutritional Bars

I was recently sent some of YoFitt's nutritional bars to try. I loved the packaging. Bright coloured and very informative about what ingredients are in the bar. I also love that they are made locally here in Toronto. I love supporting Canadian companies and even more so when they are made in my city.

What's so great about YoFiit?

The bars contain pre-biotics to help support a healthy gut flora because a healthy gut is the foundation of a healthy life.  11-12 g of fibre per bar. It also has probiotics that serve 2 functions a) sustain a strong gut by aiding at the digestion of carb and protein b) enhance one’s workout experience because in clinical trials, combining this probiotics strain with protein enables the easier protein absorption and as such reduces soreness post workout and allows for quicker muscle. The bars have no more than 5g of sugar. They are nut-free, vegan and gluten-free. They also have high in trace minerals such as magnesium, manganese.

What's really unique is that there are 3 bars scientifically formulated based on your needs throughout the day:

1.Morning fibre bar provides 49% of your fibre needs for the day. You are halfway through with just one bar!

2. Midday Energy bar is the pick-me-up kind of bar when you feel like you are crashing in the office or on the road around 3 pm. Full with antioxidant such as goji, cacao, quinoa, this is the perfect bar for on the go adventures.

3. All day protein bar is the ultimate protein companion bar. Optimal ratio of protein, fibre and sugar. 15g of protein / 12g of fibre / 5 g of sugar per 55g bar.

If you are looking for a natural bar these are a great source. I especially like that the 3 bars are specific to the different needs at different times of the day. They taste very clean and healthy. Give them a try and let me know if you like them.

Thanks Yofiit for the bars!

You can purchase bars HERE.

Hey Everyone!

Have you been searching for an Organic Energy Drink? I was recently sent a brand to try. My friends over at Pilots Friend sent me a case of their product.  A clean organic energy tonic. Crafted in Italy by Doctors for Pilots. A blend of 14 natural & organic botanical extracts and fruit juices. The blend is made from 100% natural ingredients.

A lot of people give me slack for drinking energy drinks because of the chemicals in them. Well here is your alternative. None of our ingredients have been genetically modified and no animal by-products have been used. There are natural herbs and plant extracts in it that are organically grown. There is also a varied, finely balanced assortment of caffeine derived from cola nuts and Guarana seeds.

The Ingredients have:

• No Artificial Sweeteners
• No Taurine
• No Artificial Flavours
• No Preservative

Since I am on prep and can't taste test it I had Sean do it for me. He said that it tastes natural, fruity and clean. The down side is that the containers for each drink are small but the upside is that they come with a lid. You know how most energy drinks you can't reseal. This had a cool cap that goes on the top so that you can save it for later or reduce spilling if you are walking around or traveling with it in hand or a cup holder!

Thanks so much Pilots Friend for sending me a sample box.

Let me know if you guys try the product and if you liked it!

This week I was invited to a new product launch. The product was for Meta http://www.metawellness.com/ for their new appetite control product. The session was very informative, well set up and interactive.

After a Meta Wellness nutrition specialist (who was very friendly and informative) helped us learn what type of snacker we were we had the opportunity to try the product in an interactive way. We got to make a smoothie with it. Firstly I have been using meta for quite some time in my prep diets for both myself and my clients to get the proper amounts of daily fibre that they need. I have never thought to make it into a smoothie.

There was a cute laid out counter with ingredients and a recipe to follow but they also gave us the option to free style it. Which I chose because Im not allowed any fruit since I am prepping. I put water, ice, spinach and meta. Since meta is orange  flavour it was honestly so delicious! I am going to start adding the recipe into my client programs because it was very satisfying.

Orange Zest Meta Appetite Control is a tasty fiber powder you can add to cold drinks up to 3 times a day with meals.

Orange Smooth Meta Appetite Control is a tasty fiber powder you can add to cold drinks up to 3 times a day with meals.* It’s also available in a delicious Pink Lemonade Quench flavor and an Unflavored Smoothie Enhancer that’s easy to mix into your smoothies—and your daily routine as an appetite suppressant. I can’t wait for these two new flavours to launch in Canada! It is also free of sugar and gluten, Meta Appetite Control is not only healthy—it’s a treat for your taste buds.

is not only healthy—it’s a treat for your taste buds.

Meta Appetite Control has been proven to help you feel less hungry between meals.* Its main ingredient is the super fiber psyllium fiber. It’s a natural fiber that forms a gel in your digestive system, slowing absorption and digestion, which aids in the sensation of fullness and acts as an appetite suppressant.

They gave us a cute little gift bag with the product and our own personal blender! Thanks so much Meta! http://www.metawellness.com

I give this product a 10/10 for the simple fact its a great way to supplement your fibre, curb cravings and it tastes delicious!

Hey Guys!

I was at my local health food store browsing the cooler. Since Im currently on prep and sweetners haven't been cut yet I tend to look for sugar free, low carb drinks to satisfy cravings. I happened to see a new bottle that I didn't recognize. It was called Kevita. This is a sparkling fermented drink. There were a few kinds so I checked out the back labels. I found one: Lemon Cayenne. That sparked my interest.

The drink is certified organic, 10 calories, 20mg sodium 1g sugar and 1g cab (not significant). So I decided to keep reading the ingredient list. What I thought was very interesting is that it contained apple cider vinegar, cayenne from the whole plant extract, lemon extract, stevia leaf extract and then fermented lactic acid. I was intrigued. It all had bacterial cultures. These aid in digestion along with apple cider. It was also gluten free, non -dairy and vegan. And to top it off its lightly carbonated to satisfy the bubble desire since I can't have real soda.

All in all I would give this product a 9/10. This is because it does have maple extract which is what I would presume the 1g carb, 1g sugar comes from. So Kevita if you feel like sending me a case of these for the rest of my prep I wouldn't be mad!

10 Foods to Get You In the Mood This Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is rapidly approaching and instead of making reservations to some over-hyped trendy spot, stay in and prepare a “Lover’s Platter” full of indulgent aphrodisiacs. Pop some champagne, get that romantic playlist ready and feast onthese 10 foods to get you in the mood for love this Valentine’s Day. Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O a New York City Osteopathic Physician board certified in family and anti-aging medicine gives us his interesting insights on these aphrodisiacs.

“Aphrodisiacs are foods that have certain chemical properties that could increase pheromones, estrogen of testosterone, estrogen, heightening our interest in sex,” explains Dr. Calapai.

To be considered a true aphrodisiac the substance must be consumed orally, must reliably increase libido or sexual desire and within minutes. Ok so what are these sexual super foods and what is it about them that lights the fire of desire?

1. Oysters

One of the most infamous aphrodisiacs oysters are high in zinc and have a reputation for being great for fertility. Researchers have found that oysters contain amino acids that trigger production of sex hormones. “Oysters offer a lean source of protein to help give you energy all night long. In addition to offering the body zinc, which helps blood flow and nourish sperm, there's scientific evidence that an amino acid found in oysters may directly raise sexual hormone levels," says Dr. Calapai.

2. Bananas

With their phallic shape, bananas already look tempting and sensual; but they also contain bromelain, an enzyme, which Dr. Calapai says, triggers testosterone production. The fruit's potassium and vitamin B elevate energy levels and the high sugar content gives the brain a kick! Melt some chocolate to add some sexy decadence.

3. Honey

Honey is made through pollination and secretions of many fertile bees worshipping their queen, just what every woman wants! Drizzled on certain body parts honey can be fun. It has a number of vitamins and it also contains boron, which helps regulate estrogen and testosterone levels and the sweet and sappy sweetness provides a natural energy boost.

4. Watermelon

Packed with citrulline and lycopene, Watermelon may have a Viagra-like effect on the body, as it relaxes blood vessels and improves circulation. It may even prevent erectile dysfunction. It’s incredibly juicy, sexy and when dipped in chocolate is the perfect flavor explosion.

5. Pine Nuts

High in energizing zinc and fatty acids, which has been linked to a healthy sex drive, pine nuts are also considered aphrodisiacs because of the effort required to procure these oily gems from pinecones.

6. Arugula

This peppery tasting plant has been documented as an aphrodisiac since the first century A.D. “The bite of the aromatic leaf might get you in the mood and the minerals and antioxidants found in dark leafy greens like arugula have also been proven to block environmental contaminates that could negatively harm libido,” explains Dr. Calapai.

7. Olive oil

Packed with antioxidants, olives and their oil have been used for centuries for health. The Greeks believed they made men more virile as well. “Olive oil is a good source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are critical for a healthy heart, smooth blood flow and stable hormone production, all needed to keep the brain, prostate and penis in good shape!” says Dr. Calapai.

8. Figs

Eaten by Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, the fig has forever paradoxically symbolized both sexuality (the ripe fruit with seeds representing fertility) and modesty (the fig leaf). They are full of potassium and are an antioxidant powerhouse, sweet and delicate when eaten.

9. Pomegranate

These bright gems enclosed in a thick rose-colored husk are filled with tangy sweet antioxidants, which support blood flow and clear thought. One study by The Male Clinic in California found that pomegranate juice had a positive effect on erectile dysfunction.

10. Chai Tea

Skip the coffee and end the night with a cup of Indian chai tea. The typical spices in this brew include ginger, cloves and cinnamon, all come from exotic places and certainly will get the blood flowing. Since it has almost no caffeine the stimulant effect is less than coffee allowing you and your lover to drift to sleep.

About the Doctor:

Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O. is an Osteopathic Physician board certified in family medicine, and anti-aging medicine. Proclaimed the "The Stem Cell Guru" by the New York Daily News, Dr. Calapai is a leader in the field of stem cell therapy in the U.S. His stem cell treatments have achieved remarkable results in clinical trials on patients with conditions as varied as Alzheimer's, arthritis, erectile dysfunction, frailty syndrome, heart, kidney and liver failure, lupus, MS and Parkinson's. He has worked with Mike Tyson, Mickey Rourke, Steven Seagal, and Gotham's, Donal Logue; and as a medical consultant for the New York Rangers. Connect with him via twitter @drcalapai or at www.drcal.net

Want a delicious Super Bowl meal that burns belly fat and help you get lean?  Chili!  You can even use fatty ground beef.   [Recipe below.]

Husbands, boyfriends and other men over 40 can also build testosterone levels – and have more energy, more strength and less belly fat, according to Clark Bartram, 53, Performance & Nutrition Industry Expert for Six Pack Abs, and Lead Advisor to the International Sports Sciences Association.  When men’s testosterone levels are low, they face muscle loss, low energy and loss of sex drive.  Additionally, their body stores most of the food they eat as belly fat.

Clark Bartram cooks testosterone boosting, belly fat burning chili, his Super Bowl meal of choice.

When a man turns 30, his testosterone levels can decrease by 1-2% a year.  By the time he reaches his 40s and 50s, his testosterone production can be down to half of what it once was, according to Bartram.

“Giving you half the testosterone production and double the belly fat – that’s not good,” he says.  “That’s why it’s so important for us older men to start boosting our natural testosterone immediately.”

Rather than get testosterone treatments or “legal steroids” (with frequent side effects) from a physician, Bartram says, “Let food be your medicine.”

The fats in red meat as well as salmon and tuna boost testosterone, he said.  Other such foods are: almonds, garlic, eggs, cabbage, spinach, asparagus, avocados, bananas, watermelon, citrus fruit, grapes, and honey.

For Super Bowl chili, adding white button mushrooms are a key ingredient to blocking estrogen, the female version of testosterone.  Estrogen can cause a man to bloat, develop breast tissue and store more fat around the waist.  Rising estrogen levels also cause your belly fat to start producing a testosterone killing chemical that creates even more estrogen.

At TestMaxMeals.com, Bartram offers more testosterone boosting food tips, 3 so-called “healthy” foods that can dramatically decrease testosterone levels, and 3 “cheat” foods that boost testosterone.  He also explains how to quickly prepare and cook an entire week’s worth of your favorite testosterone boosting foods in less than an hour and at a low cost.

Clark Bartram’s Super Bowl Chili Recipe

2 lbs. ground beef (15% fat)                  1 can kidney beans
1 cup white button mushrooms              1 can black beans
1/2 cup chopped onions                        1 can organic chopped tomatoes
2 tbs. chili powder                                 pinch of salt
jar organic tomato puree                        garlic to taste

1.) Sauté ground beef until it is brown.
2.) Place meat into big pot and add all other ingredients.
3.) Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 30-45 minutes.

Enjoy.

The launch of Dexcom Canada will reshape how Canadians living with diabetes access and use continuous glucose monitoring

Want to burn belly fat, build testosterone and get lean — by eating chili?  You can even use fatty ground beef.   [Recipe below.]

Men over 40 with higher testosterone levels have more energy, more strength and less belly fat, according to Clark Bartram, 53, Performance & Nutrition Industry Expert for Six Pack Abs, and Lead Advisor to the International Sports Sciences Association.  When men’s testosterone levels are low, they face muscle loss, low energy and loss of sex drive.  Additionally, their body stores most of the food they eat as belly fat.

Clark Bartram cooks testosterone boosting, belly fat burning chili.

When a man turns 30, his testosterone levels can decrease by 1-2% a year.  By the time he reaches his 40s and 50s, his testosterone production can be down to half of what it once was, according to Bartram.

“Giving you half the testosterone production and double the belly fat – that’s not good,” he says.  “That’s why it’s so important for us older men to start boosting our natural testosterone immediately.”

Rather than get testosterone treatments or “legal steroids” (with frequent side effects) from a physician, Bartram says, “Let food be your medicine.”

The fats in red meat as well as salmon and tuna boost testosterone, he said.  Other such foods are: almonds, garlic, eggs, cabbage, spinach, asparagus, avocados, bananas, watermelon, citrus fruit, grapes, and honey.

For chili, adding white button mushrooms are a key ingredient to blocking estrogen, the female version of testosterone.  Estrogen can cause a man to bloat, develop breast tissue and store more fat around the waist.  Rising estrogen levels also cause your belly fat to start producing a testosterone killing chemical that creates even more estrogen.

At TestMaxMeals.com, Bartram offers more testosterone boosting food tips, 3 so-called “healthy” foods that can dramatically decrease testosterone levels, and 3 “cheat” foods that boost testosterone.  He also explains how to quickly prepare and cook an entire week’s worth of your favorite testosterone boosting foods in less than an hour and at a low cost.

Clark Bartram’s Testosterone-Boosting Chili Recipe

2 lbs. ground beef (15% fat)                              1 can kidney beans
1 cup white button mushrooms                          1 can black beans
1/2 cup chopped onions                                    1 can organic chopped tomatoes
2 tbs. chili powder                                             pinch of salt
jar organic tomato puree                                    garlic to taste

1.) Sauté ground beef until it is brown.
2.) Place meat into big pot and add all other ingredients.
3.) Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 30-45 minutes.

It's the New Year so a lot of us are looking to jumpstart our weight loss journey for the year. One way that many around the world do so is my cleansing. Juice cleanses are cleanses that have grown in popularity in recent years.