Supplement Spotlight: Products to Help With Weight Loss

Losing weight is difficult for most people — and if you’re one of the exceptions, don’t tell me or I’ll be too
jealous to carry on a conversation with you.

If you’re up to the challenge of shedding a few extra pounds, you’ll want every advantage you can get. This means not only eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables and finally putting your gym membership to use, but also taking the right supplements to support your fitness-focused lifestyle.
Luckily for you, USANA offers a variety of products with nutrients to help you with many different aspects of weight loss.

Pumping Iron

If you’re a woman who might get pregnant and needs a little extra iron, you should be taking a quality prenatal supplement, such as USANA’s Prenatal Essentials.
Fortunately for you, the Prenatal Essentials contain iron, which is necessary for red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body. If you’ve ever had a particularly tough workout session in an effort to burn calories, you know your body needs as much oxygen as it can get.
Without sufficient iron, you can feel tired and fatigued, which will make it even harder to meet any fitness or weight-loss goals you may have.

Build Your Bones

Weak bones and pain caused by exercise can discourage you from staying active. Enter calcium and vitamin D. This powerful duo — found in Active Calcium™, the Essentials, and even Nutrimeal™ — makes all the difference for your skeletal system. Calcium helps maintain strong bones, while vitamin D enhances calcium absorption and utilization.
Not convinced you need more Active Calcium in your life? Some research also indicates supplementing with these micronutrients may play a role in weight control, which means you have nothing to lose but extra pounds.

 

Mega Weight Loss

You’ve probably already heard a great deal about how omega-3s are great for your brain, but they’re also terrific for your body. Omega-3s, such as those found in BiOmega™ and BiOmega Jr.™, can aid in weight loss. This might be due in part to the fact that DHA and EPA (components of omega-3 fatty acids) contribute to blood flow to the muscles during exercise.
Of course, it’s not a magical fat-melting pill, but when combined with a healthy diet and exercise, a fish oil supplement can make a difference in your waistline.
On top of this, omega-3s are great for helping you stay active as you age. They can help prevent muscle deterioration in the elderly when taken in conjunction with exercise.

Mind Your Meals

If you want to lose weight, meals have to be about more than just cutting calories. You also have to make sure you’re getting enough of the good stuff — specifically fiber and protein. Fiber will keep you feeling full long after you finish your meal. This can help keep you from overeating later in the day, and it can even reduce the total number of calories you consume.
Eating plenty of protein helps promote muscle protein synthesis. Even if you’re not looking to bulk up, strong muscles are important because they burn calories even while at rest, which helps promote a lean body. Additionally, it can slow the natural muscle loss that occurs with age, which can help you stay active for many years to come.
If you want a convenient way to get protein and fiber in your meals, make sure to try a combo shake of Nutrimeal and Fibergy™ Plus. It’s quick, delicious, and it will set your body on the right track for weight loss. Plus, when you want a tasty snack that’s packed with protein, be sure to reach for a USANA Protein Snack in delicious flavors such as Choco Chip™.

Sources:

• Major GC, Alarie FP, Doré J, Tremblay A. Calcium plus vitamin D supplementation and fat mass loss in female very low-calcium consumers: potential link with a calcium-specific appetite control. Br J Nutr. 2009;101(5):659-63.

• Nathan Gray. NUTRAingredients.com. Fish oil may protect against muscle deterioration in the elderly: Pilot study. 7 Sep 2012. Available athttp://www.nutraingredients.com/Research/Fish-oil-may-protect-against-muscle-deterioration-in-the-elderly-Pilot-study?utm_source=copyright&utm_medium=OnSite&utm_campaign=copyright. Accessed Jan 2014.

• Smith GI, Atherton P, Reeds DN, et al. Dietary omega-3 fatty acid supplementation increases the rate of muscle protein synthesis in older adults: a randomized controlled trial. Am J Clin Nutr. 2011;93(2):402-12.

• Stebbins CL, Hammel LE, Marshal BJ, et al. Effects of dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated Fatty acids on the skeletal-muscle blood flow response to exercise in rats. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2010;20(6): 475–86.

• Tremblay A, Gilbert JA. Human obesity: is insufficient calcium/dairy intake part of the problem?. J Am Coll Nutr. 2011;30(5 Suppl 1):449S-53S.

• Zemel MB. Role of calcium and dairy products in energy partitioning and weight management. Am J Clin Nutr. 2004;79(5):907S-912S.
• Article by Emily Alaniz 
  
  
  Thanks for reading.
  If you want to connect with me, you can follow me on facebook, you can find the link on the side menu.
  Also if you want to learn from me and be with my team of business-minded people,
  you can always contact me @mark.ryan.c.mauricio@usana.com.
  Thanks and have a nice day ahead. :)

Lessons Learned on Dance Floor Translate to Real Life

Peter Dziak has more championship titles than most people can dream of, but it’s the three Irish Dance World Championships that he’s best known for.
The teenager has been dancing for 11 years, and doesn’t have plans to stop anytime soon.
“I am still dancing today because I have always loved to dance,” Peter tells What’s Up, USANA? “It’s also a nice accessory to have when you’re at parties. I have learned so many life lessons through Irish Dance such as responsibility, leadership and sacrifice. In addition, I love to be able to travel all over the world. Dancing has allowed me to go to Belgium, Ireland, Scotland, England, etc. I also like to show all the little boys in Irish Dance that it’s cool. I like to share my talents with everyone around me, especially the less fortunate ones.”
Being a dancer isn’t something 16-year-old boys usually admit to, but Peter isn’t shy about his skills.
“When people find out that I am an Irish Dancer, they are either amazed or think its weird,” he explains. “But when they see me dance its different. They all think it’s cool when they can see me hit the floor.”
“I am very proud of Peter and his dance accomplishments,” says Peter’s dad, Dick Dziak. “(Peter) works hard and loves to dance and especially bringing joy to others through the Irish dance art form. Competition really seems to drive him though and always takes him to the next level.”

 

Looking to the Future

With three championships under his belt, Peter could sit back and rest on his laurels. But as you might imagine, this high-achieving young man has big goals for the future, and they go beyond the dance world.
“My goal is to win as many competitions as I can, and to inspire people all over the world,” he says. But in the future, he’d also like to become a pilot in the Air Force. At least that’s his plan right now, “but I have always been switching around what I want to do for a job. I am also in track, hockey, baseball, soccer and dance, but I am aiming at excelling in hockey at the moment.”
Dick’s goals for his son aren’t quite so event specific but are nonetheless important. “My goals for Peter are to be a well-rounded, hard working, self-sufficient, honest, contributing member to his community and country,” he says.

Finding a Good Balance

Peter admits his passion requires a lot of sacrifice, but says his family helps keep him grounded. “My mom is really good about being balanced in my sports and school,” he explains.

And Peter isn’t the only person in his family with a full schedule. Following mom and dad’s lead, each of the seven Dziak children maintain a healthy lifestyle by staying active and balanced.
“We homeschool and try to keep God at the center of our lives,” Dick says. “We belong to a fitness club, Glass Courts, where my wife teaches water aerobics and the kids can cross train. We have a garden in the summer and try to eat healthily, but that is huge battle for us.  And now, … we just recently starting using the USANA products and can already feel a positive difference!”
In fact, the Dziaks like USANA so much, Dick and his wife just signed up as Associates. “I really like everything USANA offers,” Peter says. “Especially the Nutrimeal Dutch Chocolate protein shake. I really try to get all of the nutrients I need every day along with pre workout proteins and such.”

All in the Family

Peter isn’t the only person in his family who loves to share his talents. All seven of the Dziak children have danced at one time or another.
Eileen, the oldest at 23, danced and has taught Irish dancing. Anne, 21, qualified for and competed at five world championships.  Randy, 18, danced along side of Peter for many years, qualifying and competing at the world championships in Glasgow, Scotland, in 2009.
“Randy and Peter have been great pals and training partners and Randy kept it fun for Peter and encourages Peter to continue to strive and push himself to the next level,” Dick explains. It was “because his older siblings were jigging around” that Peter started dancing.
The youngest members the Dziak clan — Maryellen, Michelle and Danny (ages 13, 9 and 6) — are following in their siblings’ footsteps and are all currently taking dance classes.

 

Article Featured from www.whatsupusana.com

Thanks for reading.

If you want to connect with me, you can follow me on facebook, you can find the link on the side menu.
Also if you want to learn from me and be with my team of business-minded people,
you can always contact me @mark.ryan.c.mauricio@usana.com.
Thanks and have a nice day ahead. :)

The Value of 30 Minutes Self-Development Everyday.

Nowadays we are always caught up with the same routine especially for those who are working leaving aside self-development. Sometimes we are too caught up with what we are doing that we already forgot that we've been doing it for quite some time(years or decades perhaps) and didn't realize that as time goes by we already forgot what's important to us.  Have you been doing the work you don't like for 5 years but didn't actively search for what you really want and the end result is since you really don't know what you want... You are stuck in it and at the end when you realize that you don't like what you're doing, it's already too late. Time has already passed by.
 
Remember that while we are still alive, we still should continue to pursue continuous development and learning. Throughout my journey in building and learning through business, I could say that this is one of the thing that is essential. When I am always listening to my mentors and coaches, I always hear from them you should always have at least 30 minutes of time in reading book's for self-development everyday. At first I thought 30 minutes of reading books is not that hard, I can even do it for 2 hours or more. But in reality, we could only digest a few of it and of course we should be actively doing what we learn and apply it as time goes by. Reading 30 minutes a day give you the knowledge and eventually apply what you've red. Also, some people aren't really fond of reading at all hence a 30 minutes of reading should be enough. Another thing that can help you if your not into books is by listening to audio books. Before, if you want to learn you must go to the library and search for the book that you need but with our time right now everything is available, audiobooks are available on YouTube. Nothing can stop you at all, only yourself.

Remember, if you really want to achieve something in life. You can't achieve it by being the same and approaching it in the same manner. If you want your circumstances to improve, you can't change others. Change it by changing yourself and being different, gain different perspective, learn from other people, read and actively pursue the vision of the life that you want. Be proactive in life. :)


Thanks for reading.
If you want to connect with me, you can follow me on facebook, you can find the link on the side menu.
Also if you want to learn from me and be with my team of business-minded people,
you can always contact me @mark.ryan.c.mauricio@usana.com.
Thanks and have a nice day ahead. :)

Do You Know What’s in Your Supplements?

You’ve seen the pictures — men and women clothed in lab coats, hairnets, white protective pants and shoe covers. For USANA’s Million Dollar Club inductees and Gold Retreat visitors, it’s the photo op of a lifetime, but the garb means so much more.
USANA is committed to excellence, and that includes the manufacturing process. When visitors tour our manufacturing facility, they witness exactly what goes into each of our products and the care in which the process takes place.
Now, not every supplement provider takes the time and care to cross all their T’s and dot their I’s. The truth is, not all supplements are what they appear to be. A recent Canadian study shows that many popular supplements contain fillers, such as soybeans, wheat, rice and weeds.
Products in the study underwent testing called DNA barcoding, which uses a short genetic marker to identify it as part of a specific species. Researchers tested 44 different bottles of supplements sold by 12 companies. One-third of the products tested contained ingredients not listed on the bottle. USANA was not part of the study.
The findings of the study have raised many questions about the supplement industry and many are calling for stricter regulations.

Manufacturing Standards

Fortunately for you, USANA holds itself to a higher standard.

• USANA manufactures most of its products in its own state-of-the-art facilities. To ensure that the formulas are produced consistently, the same process is followed each time manufacturing begins.
• Each of USANA’s products carries a Potency Guarantee, ensuring that what is defined on the label is actually contained in the product.
• Formulas developed in USANA’s laboratories use only the highest quality ingredients and are modeled after Good Manufacturing Processes.
• USANA tracks every manufacturing detail from start to finish — from the verification of raw materials to final testing of finished products.
• USANA operates an FDA-registered facility, following the FDA’s highest possible standard for manufacturers.

“We are committed to strict manufacturing standards and go a step beyond GMP for dietary supplements,” says Dr. John Cuomo, USANA’s executive director of product development and technology. “In fact, we voluntarily follow the stringent GMP for pharmaceuticals, which means our dietary supplements are manufactured under the same standards as over-the-counter medications.”

If you are unable to view this video, please visit the USANA YouTube channel.

Independent Testing

Even though USANA carefully monitors its products and the ingredients in them, we don’t stop there.

• USANA obtains third-party verification through ConsumerLab.com®. USANA products currently certified through ConsumerLab.com include: Essentials™, Visionex®, USANA® Probiotic, CoQuinone® 30, Procosa and BiOmega™.
• USANA was rated No. 1 in Direct Sales Based on Customer Satisfaction in ConsumerLab.com’s 2013 Survey of Vitamin and Supplement Users.
• To make sure our products have correctly labeled ingredients and do not contain banned substances, USANA’s dietary supplements are also tested by NSF International —an independent, nonprofit organization that certifies products to help protect consumers — and HFL Sport Science — one of the world’s premier independent drug surveillance laboratories.

Proof in Action

While promises are nice, many people want proof of those promises in real-world application. We can do that for you. Take, for example, USANA’s Digestive Enzyme. In October, USANA learned through testing that one of the product’s raw ingredients was not meeting the company’s strict standards. Rather than sweeping the issue under the rug, USANA halted the production of any new batches. Instead of putting profit first, USANA continued to focus on quality and is currently working to find a suitable solution.

World-class Audience

If that wasn’t enough proof for you, consider this: More than 600 world-class athletes, including the Women’s Tennis Association and the U.S. Ski and Snowboarding Association trust USANA’s products because they know what’s listed on the label is actually what’s in the bottle.

If you are unable to view this video, please visit the USANA YouTube channel.

Learn More …

• The New Standard: USANA’s In-House Manufacturing
• The New Standard: R&D, Manufacturing Lead the Way
• The Company You Keep: High-Quality Manufacturing
• The Company You Keep: Third-Party Validation

Nutrimeal Recipes from all over the place

Here's a collection of recipe's for Nutrimeal from all over the place. Enjoy being healthy and fit! :) 

Banana Bread Shake
Ingredients:
2 scoops Chocolate Whey Nutrimeal
1 Banana
1/2 Cup Quaker Oats© Oatmeal (cook with boiling water)
3/4 Cup Kellogg’s © Bran Flakes
1 Bottle of Water
Agave to taste

Banana Protein Shake
Ingredients:
2-3 scoops Vanilla Nutrimeal
1 medium to large banana
8 oz. light Soy Milk
1 tbsp Linseed, Soy and Almond Mixture
1 tsp Golden Syrup
Few drops vanilla essence/extract
3-4 cubes ice
1 tbsp low fat natural yogurt (optional depending on diet)
Throw into blender for several minutes.

Orange Vanilla Shake
Ingredients:
2-3 scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
8 oz. Orange Juice
4-5 ice cubes
1 tsp. Vanilla Extract
½ banana
2-3 frozen strawberries
2 packets of sweetener

Berry Good Shake
Ingredients:
2-3 scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
4 strawberries
15 blueberries
8 raspberries
16 ounces of nonfat milk
1-2 cup of ice cubes.

Almond Blaster
Ingredients:
2-3 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
10-12 oz of skim milk
1 cup of dry oatmeal
1 cup of raisins
12 shredded almonds
1 tbsp of peanut butter.


Strawberry Nut Shake
2-3 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
1 cup of fat-free strawberry yogurt
6 shredded macadamia nuts.

Plum Ice Shake
2-3 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
1 ripe plum (pitted)
Juice of 1 lemon
16 ounces of ice water
1-2 cup of ice cubes.

Peppermint Oatmeal Shake
Ingredients:
2-3 scoops of Dutch Chocolate Nutrimeal or Chocolate Whey Nutrimeal
1 cup sugar free vanilla ice cream
1 cup oatmeal
2 cups non-fat milk
1 cup water
A splash of peppermint extract

Chocolate Coffee Shake
2-3 scoops of Dutch Chocolate Nutrimeal or Chocolate Whey Nutrimeal
1 cup of skim milk
5 ice cubes
1 cup of water
1 spoonful of instant decaf coffee or Pero Coffee Substitute!

Plum-Lemon Cooler
2 scoops Vanilla Nutrimeal
1 ripe plum, pitted
Juice of 1 lemon
16 ounces ice water
1/2 cup ice cubes


Peanut Butter Chocolate Truffle
2-3 Scoops of Chocolate Whey Nutrimeal or Dutch Chocolate Nutrimeal
1 teaspoon creamy peanut butter
16 ounces nonfat milk
1/2 cup ice cubes

Creatine Catalyst
2-3 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
5 Granny Smith apples
1 tsp creatine powder
1/2 cup ice cubes

Peanut Brittle Protein Shake
2-3 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
1 tbsp sugar-free instant butterscotch pudding mix, dry
1 tbsp natural peanut butter, chunky
8 oz. cold water or lowfat milk.
3-6 ice cubes
Directions:
Add all ingredients to blender, blend, and serve. Add the peanut butter in last so it stays a little chunky, just like the peanut brittle it is replacing.

The Hulk – Pistachio Goodness
2-3 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
1  tbsp sugar-free pistachio pudding mix
1 mint leaf or a few drops peppermint extract (optional)
1 few drops green food coloring (optional)
8 oz. cold water or low-fat milk
3-5 ice cubes
Directions:
Add all ingredients to blender, blend, and pour into cup. This tastes great without the mint so don’t worry if you don’t have it around. The shake is a light green even without the food coloring but if you want it green (like The Hulk!), you’ll need a few drops.

Oatmeal Shake
This is a homemade meal replacement that contains all the nutrition of a hearty bowl of oatmeal. It’s got complex carbs, protein, and a little good fat to extend its contribution to your energy stores. If you expect the rest of the day to be hectic, why not double it up and take half of the shake to work to ensure you don’t skip a meal just because you’ll be stuck in a meeting.
Ingredients:
1 cup dry measure oatmeal, cooked in water and cooled
2-3 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
3 dashes cinnamon
1/8 cup sugar free maple syrup or equivalent amount brown sugar replacement
1 tbsp chopped almonds (or flaxseed oil or natural peanut butter)
12 oz. water or low-fat milk
Directions:
Add all ingredients to blender, blend, and pour into cup. If your short on time, just use dry oatmeal or oat flour.

Cinnamon Roll Protein Shake
2-3 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
1 tbsp sugar-free instant vanilla pudding
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp imitation vanilla (or 1/4 tsp extract)
1 packet artificial sweetener
A few dashes butter flavor sprinkles or butter-flavor extract
8 oz. water (or low-fat milk)
3 ice cubes
Directions:
Add all ingredients to blender, whip, and serve.

Nada Colada Protein Shake
2-3 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
1/2 c pineapple-orange juice*
1/4 tsp rum extract
1/4 tsp coconut extract (or 2 tbsp shredded coconut)
1 packet artificial sweetener
4 oz. water (or low-fat milk)
3-6 ice cubes
Low-carb version: Omit juice and use 1/2 tsp sugar-free pineapple-orange drink mix (dry). Increase water or milk to 8 oz.
Directions:
Add all ingredients to blender, whip, and serve.


Protein Shake
1 cup skim milk
2 tsp. safflower oil
Several pieces of ice
1 banana
2-3 Scoops Nutrimeal (any flavor Nutrimeal–Strawberry, Dutch Chocolate, Cappuccino, French Vanilla, Orange Cream)
Directions:
Mix together in blender until ice is completely crushed and mixed well.

Banana Delight
8 oz. pure water
1/2 banana (frozen)
1-2 Scoops Vanilla Nutrimeal
2 tsp. flax seed oil

Strawberry Cheesecake
10 oz pure water
8 frozen strawberries
4 tbs. low fat sour cream
10-15 drops liquid Stevia (optional)
2-3 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal

Blueberry Dream
10 oz. Pure water
1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
2-3 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
2 tsp. flax seed oil
15 drops liquid Stevia (optional)

Fat Burning Peaches and Cream
Ingredients:
8 oz. pure water
1 ripe peach
2 tbs. low fat sour cream
8 drops liquid Stevia (optional)
2-3 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal

Quick Start
Ingredients:
Juice from 3 oranges (fresh juiced only, NOT canned or bottled)
6 drops liquid Stevia (optional)
2-3 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal

Tropical Treat
Ingredients:
8 oz. pure water
1/2 banana (frozen)
2 tbs. low fat sour cream
1 tsp. coconut extract
10-15 drops liquid Stevia (optional)
2-3 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal

Tropical Pleasure
Ingredients:
8 oz. pure water
1/2 tsp. pineapple extract
1/2 tsp. coconut extract
1 tbs heavy cream
1/2 frozen banana
1-2 Scoops Vanilla Nutrimeal
Stevia or Agave to taste (optional)
2-3 ice cubes (optional)

Chocolate Almond Delight
10-12 oz. pure water
15 raw almonds
1/2 tsp. coconut extract
2-3 scoops of Chocolate Whey Nutrimeal or Dutch Chocolate Nutrimeal
Stevia to taste (optional)
3-5 ice cubes (optional)
(first, blend the almonds until creamy smooth in 1/2 the water, then add the rest of the ingredients)

Chocolate Lovers
12 oz pure water
1 tsp. pure cocoa powder
2 tbs. low fat sour cream
10-15 drops liquid stevia
2-3 scoops of Chocolate Whey Nutrimeal or Dutch Chocolate Nutrimeal
2 tsp. flax seed oil

High Energy Shake!
10 oz pure water
10 strawberries (Fresh or Frozen)
1 tbs. flax seed oil
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1-2 Scoops of Nutrimeal of choice
Stevia to taste (optional)
2-3 ice cubes (optional)

Super Slimmer
8 oz. pure water
1 tbs. flax seed oil
1/2 ripe peach (peeled)
6 frozen strawberries
1-2 heaping scoop(s) of Nutrimeal of choice
Stevia to taste (optional)

Heavy Gainer
10-14 oz. pure water
1/2 cup raw almonds – blend with water only until creamy smooth then add…
1/2 large frozen banana
2-3 scoops of Nutrimeal of your choice
Stevia to taste (optional)

Weight Gainer
14 oz. pure water
2 bananas or 2 scoops Wild Yam Powder
3 tbs. peanut butter
6 drops liquid stevia (optional)
2-3 scoops of Nutrimeal of your choice

Mineral Power
10 oz. pure water
1 oz. liquid ionic plant source minerals
1 packet Knox gelatin
1 tbs. flax seed oil
2-3 scoops of Nutrimeal of your choice
Stevia or to taste (optional)

Super Healthy Honey Banana Shake
1 cup of pure water
1-2 Scoops of Nutrimeal of your choice
3/4 cup of natural yogurt
1 banana
1 tsp of flax-seed oil
2 tsp of honey

Rock N’ Roll Protein Shake
1 cup of pure water
1-2 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
3/4 cup of natural yogurt
1 banana
1 tsp of flax-seed oil
2 tsp of honey

Banana Almond Crème
1 Banana
12 Cup Milk
10 Almonds
1-2 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
5 Ice Cubes

Fruit Smoothie
2-3 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
4 large strawberries
Blueberries (a small handful)
Water (just a few drops)
1/2 cup ice
Splenda
Start off by crushing the ice in the blender and then gradually add the fruit and enough water to get it smooth. Finish off with the Nutrimeal.

Pineapple Power
1 cup of pineapple juice
3 strawberries
1 banana
1 teaspoon of yogurt
1-2 Scoops of Nutrimeal of your choice (Vanilla worked best for me)

Orange And Cream Delight
1 Bottle of Orange Gatorade
2-3 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal

Strawberry Savor
3-4 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
8 fluid ounces water
1 Strawberry yogurt
3 frozen strawberries
1 teaspoon creatine
1 teaspoon flax seed oil

Vanilla Coffee Delight
10-12 oz. low-fat milk
2 scoops Vanilla Nutrimeal
1/2 cup low-fat coffee flavored ice cream
Add all ingredients in blender.

Iso-Egg Heavy Gainer
Ingredients:
3 scoops Chocolate Whey Nutrimeal or Vanilla Nutrimeal
4 egg whites
1 tbls. Peanut Butter
8 oz. cold water
2 cups ice
The Best Protein Shake Ever
2-3 scoops Chocolate Whey Nutrimeal or Dutch Chocolate Nutrimeal
10 Ice Cubes
12 oz. fat free milk
2 tbsp fat free vanilla yogurt
1 tbsp reduced fat peanut butter
2 tbsp hazelnut coffee
1/8 cup caramel ice cream topping

Peanut Butter And Banana Shake
2-3 scoops Vanilla Nutrimeal
100g almond flakes
1 table spoon peanut butter
500ml skim milk
half banana
1 tbsp honey

The Best Overall Tasting Homemade Protein Shake
This recipe includes cottage cheese – the king of all cheap, easy, high BV protein sources ! Don’t worry, you can’t taste it and the blender eliminates the texture.
Ingredients:
16 oz. skim milk
2 cups no-fat cottage cheese
3 scoops Vanilla Nutrimeal
1/2 cup non-fat, reduced-sugar vanilla yogurt scoop of your favorite fruit (I like frozen strawberries & banana)
Splenda or Sweet-n-Low to taste (about 2 packets)
Handful of Ice
Directions:
Blend together and chill. Makes 3 two-cup servings.
Guzzle for an awesome post-workout shake. The high-glycemic-value carbs spike insulin to deliver protein to your muscles. Add dry oats for more complex carbs, and add more cottage cheese to boost the protein! Add more milk if the mix is too thick.

PB&J Protein Shake (great diet shake! Virtually no carbs)
2-3 scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
8-12 oz water (add 1% milk if you want a little creamier texture)
1 Tbsp. Natural (smooth) Peanut Butter
1 Tbsp. Flax oil or Flax meal
1 Tsp. No sugar Strawberry Jam
Blend all ingredients at high speed for 45 seconds to a minute Add ice to taste if you prefer more volume or colder water.

Fruity Carbohydrate High Protein Shake – (Post or Pre-Workout)
1 banana (cut in pieces and frozen)
4-6 whole strawberries (from frozen berry package)
1/2 cup low fat yogurt (or Brown Cow cream top for more calories)
1 cup orange or pineapple juice
2-3 scoops of Nutrimeal of your choice
You can add Creatine or Glutamine for pre- or post-workout preferences

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup (Pro Dieter’s Shake)
2-3 scoops Chocolate Whey Nutrimeal
2 Tbsp heavy cream
1 Tbsp. Peanut Butter
12 oz. water
1 Tbsp. Flax Meal
4-6 ice cubes
Blend until shake is thick. Flax meal gives it the Peanut butter cup consistency. The heavy whipping  cream makes it taste creamy. Add more peanut butter for more flavor intensity.
Lean Mass Banana Split Shake (under 25 grams carb)
1/2 frozen banana
1 Tsp banana extract (or vanilla extract if you’re not crazy about banana)
2 Tbsp Heavy Cream
2 scoops Chocolate Whey Nutrimeal
10-12 oz water
4-6 ice cubes

Tropical Protein Pina Colada Shake (for building lean mass dieting or off season)
2-3 scoops Vanilla Nutrimeal
4 oz water
1/3 cup pineapple chunks (canned in water, or fresh) – freeze them for icy texture
Coconut milk or coconut extract (again, from a can for more fat or extract for low cal)
1/2 cup 2% milk + 1/2 cup pineapple low carb drink (like Diet V-8 tropical)
4-6 ice cubes
Blend to desired consistency. Use coconut extract for less calories and a diet type shake. Use V-8 diet juice in addition.

Root Beer Float (low carb treat)
12 oz can of diet Root Beer (we like A&W for the foam, but you can use Dad’s or IBC or other root beer that is creamy)
2 scoops Vanilla Nutrimeal
4-6 ice cubes
2 Tbsp Heavy cream
Blend carefully!! Blend whipping cream, 4-6 ice cubes and enough water to make a paste out of
Nutrimeal, then add a little A&W at a time. Your blender will explode if you add it all at once!

Mango Madness
2-3 Scoops Vanilla Nutrimeal
1/2 to 1 cup mango pieces frozen or freshly sliced natural mango
1 cup vanilla or plain yogurt
1 Tbsp Flax seed oil
6-8 oz water
**Ice cubes if mango is fresh

Dreamsicle Shake (Moderate to higher carb shake)
2-3 Scoops Vanilla Nutrimeal
Seeds from half a length of real vanilla bean
1 Tsp. Vanilla extract (real not imitation)
4 oz. water
6 oz. Orange juice + zest from half orange (grate zest prior to squeezing orange)
3 Tbsp Heavy Cream
1/2 cup vanilla yogurt (or frozen vanilla yogurt)
Ice cubes at end to add desired consistency

 Add more or less Nutrimeal, liquid or zest/ vanilla bean to your preference.




Peanut Butter And Banana Shake
2 scoops Vanilla Nutrimeal
100g almond flakes
1 table spoon peanut butter
500ml skim milk
half banana
1 table spoon honey


Muscle Shake
1 c. lowfat milk
1/2 c. plain lowfat yogurt
1 banana, sliced
1-2 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
6 strawberries, sliced
1 tsp. wheat germ
1 tbsp. honey or maple syrup
1/4 c. natural berry juice
Pinch of nutmeg or carob powder

Ginger Bread Man
2-3 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
1 graham cracker
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 capful vanilla extract
12oz. of water
4 Ice Cubes
Blend 45 seconds

Creamy Coffee Ice Cream
2-3 scoops  of Vanilla Nutrimeal
13 oz ice cubes
3 oz water
2 tsp Pero Coffee Substitute
Blend the ice cubes until you get a snow. Add the protein, the ground coffee/substitute, the water and blend for 5-10 minutes to a smooth consistency. Freeze 30 – 60 minutes for thicker ice cream.

Apple Pie Delight
2-3 Scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
1 peeled and cored apple, cut into pieces
1 1/2 cups of milk
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
5 Ice Cubes
Microwave the apple pieces for 2 minutes on high. Add all ingredients to blender, puree for 30 seconds.

Chocolate Grasshopper
2-3 Scoops Chocolate Whey powder Nutrimeal
8 oz water
3 Tbsp. heavy cream
3-6 drops mint extract or pure mint
4-6 ice cubes
Blend all ingredients Add 4 oz yogurt or 2% milk to taste if above consistency isn’t smooth enough or
enough volume.

Holiday Pumpkin Spice Shake (low carb/ diet shake)
2-3 Scoops Vanilla Nutrimeal
8 oz. water
1 Tbsp. Flax oil
1 Tsp. Pumpkin pie spice
1 Tsp. Splenda Brown Sugar
8 oz. Yogurt
4-6 ice cubes
**Add 1/4 canned pumpkin pack for more true pumpkin flavor and orange color

Banana Bread Shake
Ingredients:
2 scoops Vanilla Nutrimeal
1 Banana
1/2 Cup Quaker Oatmeal (cook with boiling water)
3/4 Cup Kellogg’s Bran Flakes
1 Bottle of Water
Agave to taste

The Bad Girl
12 oz skim milk
4-8 Thin Mint Girl Scout cookies
4 ice cubes
2 scoops Chocolate Whey Nutrimeal or Dutch Chocolate Nutrimeal

German Chocolate Cake
12 oz. water
4 ice cubes
1 tablespoon heavy cream
1 tablespoon cream of coconut
2 scoops Chocolate Whey Nutrimeal or Dutch Chocolate Nutrimeal

Raspberry Chocolate Thick
1 to 2 scoops of Chocolate Whey Nutrimeal or Dutch Chocolate Nutrimeal
6 to 8 ounces of whole (or 2%) milk
6 ice cubes
8 rasberries
Mix in a blender on medium for 1 minute.


Banana Cheerio Quickfast
Great for a super fast morning meal
1 to 2 scoops of chocolate protein powder
6 to 8 ounces of water
4 to 6 ice cubes
1 banana
3/4 cup or original cheerios
Mix in a blender on medium for 1 minute.


Orange Creamsicle
1-3 scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
6 to 8 ounces of water
4 to 6 ice cubes
1 to 2 peeled oranges
Mix in a blender on medium for 1 minute.

Blueberry Blaster
1-2 scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
6 to 8 ounces of water
4 to 6 ice cubes
20-30 blueberries
Mix in a blender on medium for 1 minute.

Juicy Lucy
10 oz apple juice (can use orange/blend)
1 scoop ice
1/2 large banana
4 frozen strawberries
2 scoops Vanilla Nutrimeal

Strawberry Nut Shake
2 scoops of Vanilla Nutrimeal
1 cup of fat-free strawberry yogurt
6 shredded macadamia nuts.

Apricot Health Protein Shake:
1 fresh apricot, diced
1/4 cup crushed pineapple
1/2 banana
6 strawberries
1 tbsp. skim milk powder
1 1/2 cup water
1-2 scoops Vanilla Nutrimeal
1 tsp. flax seed oil (optional)

Homemade Cappuccino Nutrimeal
3 scoops French Vanilla Nutrimeal
1 ½ cups black decaf coffee

Peanut Butter/Chocolate Nutrimeal
3 scoops French Vanilla Nutrimeal
1 tbsp. hot cocoa mix
1 tbsp. natural peanut butter

Orange Cream Nutrimeal
3 scoops French Vanilla Nutrimeal
12 oz. cold water
A few drops of natural orange extract (add to taste)


Top O’ the Morning Muffins
Servings: 12 large muffins
3 cups whole wheat flour (or flour of your choice)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
2 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
3/4-1 cup Vanilla Nutrimeal (depending on taste)
3 eggs
3/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup apple sauce
1 cup stevia for baking (or sugar of your choice)
3 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups grated zucchini
1 cup chopped walnuts
1 cup raisins
(Optional, if you’re feeling decadent) 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, or try carob chips
Preparation
1.            Preheat oven to 350º
2.            Sift together flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon and Nutrimeal
3.            Beat eggs, then mix in oil, apple sauce, sugar, vanilla and grated zucchini
4.            Mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients; then fold in nuts, raisins and chocolate/carob chips, if desired
5.            Fill lightly greased muffin pans (for 12 large muffins)
6.            Bake 25-30 minutes; remove from pan and allow to cook on baking rack



Nutrimeal Chai Tea Mix
Servings: about 40
•             2 cups Vanilla Nutrimeal
•             2/3 cup sugar-free Vanilla powdered non-dairy creamer
•             1 cup granulated sugar or equivalent powdered low-calorie sweetener, such as Stevia
•             2 cups unsweetened instant black tea
•             2 teaspoons ground ginger
•             2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
•             1 teaspoon ground cloves
•             1 teaspoon ground cardamom
Preparation
1. Sift together all ingredients. Then whisk together or pulse in blender until thoroughly combined. Store in air-tight glass container.
2. To serve, stir 2 heaping tablespoons of mix into 6-8 ounces of hot water. Enjoy!
Note: This recipe was designed to be less sweet. For extra sweetness, try adding 1 teaspoon of honey, agave nectar or other sweetener of choice.

Garlic Herb Bagel Chips
Servings: 15-20 chips
•             3 whole wheat bagels, preferably day old
•             1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
•             2 garlic cloves, finely minced
•             1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
•             1/2 teaspoon salt
•             2 teaspoons Fibergy® Plus*
•             Ground black pepper to taste
Preparation
1.            Preheat oven to 300 degrees
2.            Slice bagels into 1/8-1/4-inch-thick rounds
3.            In bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, Fibergy Plus and black pepper. Brush bagel slices with olive oil mixture on one side.
4.            Arrange in a single layer, oiled side up, on a lightly greased baking pan; bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown
5.            Allow to cool and store in air-tight container or bag for up to 5 days

Strawberry Nutrimeal Frozen Yogurt
Servings: approx. 4
Ingredients
2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, thawed
2 Tbs orange juice
3 Tbs raw agave nectar or sweetener of choice
1 cup non-fat Greek-style yogurt
1/4 cup Strawberry Nutrimeal (approx. 3 scoops)
Chopped or sliced strawberries, for garnish (optional)
Preparation
1. In a blender, puree together strawberries, orange juice and agave nectar
2. In a separate bowl, thoroughly combine yogurt and Nutrimeal; pour in pureed strawberries and mix until well blended
3. Pour strawberry yogurt mixture into the frozen bowl of your ice cream maker for 15-20 minutes
4. Serve with some chopped strawberries (if desired); store leftover frozen yogurt in an airtight container

Strawberry Yogurt Parfait
Servings: 2
Ingredients
1/2 cup chopped strawberries
1 Tbs orange juice
2.5 Tbs raw agave nectar or sweetener of choice
1/2 cup fresh or frozen strawberries, thawed
1 scoop Strawberry Nutrimeal
1 scoop Fibergy® Plus*
1/2 cup non-fat or low-fat plain yogurt
1/2 cup low-fat granola
1/2 cup chopped fresh strawberries (optional)
Preparation
1. In a small bowl, combine chopped strawberries, orange juice and 1/2 Tbs of agave nectar; cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes or longer
2. In a blender, puree strawberries with remaining 2 Tbs of agave nectar
3. In a separate bowl, mix together yogurt, Nutrimeal and Fibergy Plus until well combined; pour in pureed strawberries and mix thoroughly
4. In two glasses, layer yogurt, 1/4 cup chopped strawberries and then top with 1/4 cup granola; serve immediately

Healthier Macaroni and Cheese
Serves 4
Adapted from a recipe by EverydayHealth
Ingredients
• 1 lb whole wheat elbow macaroni
• 1.5 cups fat-free evaporated milk
• 1 cup low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup low-fat or fat-free ricotta cheese
• 1 cup cheese low-fat sharp cheddar (add more to taste, if desired)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 Tablespoons of USANA Fibergy® Plus*
• 1 tablespoon Italian bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon Parmesan cheese (optional)
Preparation
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. Cook elbow macaroni in salted water according to package directions.
3. In a large saucepan, heat the evaporated milk over low heat. Add the ricotta, cottage and cheddar cheeses until they melt, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in the nutmeg, pepper, and salt. Remove the cheese sauce from the heat. Stir in Fibergy Plus. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well.
5. Pour the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish. Sprinkle with bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese, if desired. Bake the casserole for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and the top is browned.

25 Ways to Build Self-Confidence

 - article from Collette Larsen (USANA Diamond Director)
I remember a conversation I had several years ago with one of our team members. He wanted my assistance with a three-way call and in asking me to do this he referred to me as a “velvet hammer.” Was this a compliment? At first I wasn’t sure! He then told me he admired my ability to be assertive without being pushy. As we visited it became clear he felt I came by this ability naturally; that I had some sort of innate self-confidence.
Oh, if only he could have witnessed my first formal USANA presentation. My knees were shaking so hard I was afraid my guests would notice my pant legs vibrating! My palms were sweaty and I understood exactly what is meant by the term “cotton-mouth.”
We can make the mistake of believing confidence is innate – something we either have or we don’t. Not true. In reality, self-confidence is more like a muscle that becomes stronger if we exercise it. We must require a certain level of performance from that muscle or it will atrophy.
The subject of my podcast this week was "Building Confidence" I shared stories from my life and examples of role models I’ve used in helping to build my own confidence. I promised to list 25 ways to build self-confidence and you’ll find them below.
I’d love your input. If you can add to the list…please do so by leaving a comment. Thank you for reading and for sharing your wisdom and experience!
1 – Practice eye contact. There’s a fine line between appearing shy and unsure of yourself and coming across so intense that we intimidate the very people we want to engage. A suggestion from communication expert, Arch Lustberg, is to find a spot on the face (preferable in the general area of the nose, mouth or eyebrows), soften our gaze and look there while speaking to someone.
2 – Walk faster. I learned this the first time I watched Edna Northrup cross a street. Here was this 80-something year-old woman with so much energy and enthusiasm in her step. I just felt she had places to go, people to see and was a woman who knew what she wanted. Turns out, my assumption was correct! Pep up your step and see how confident it makes you feel.
3 – Compliment others. The old “If you can’t say something nice…don’t say anything at all,” still holds true. When you look for the good in others and then make the effort to tell them what you’ve found, it brings out the best in you.
4 – Give back. My daughter Chelsea said something to me a few years ago that has stuck with me. Considering she has four young children – two with Cystic Fibrosis, I was suggesting she didn’t need to contribute quite so generously to a CF fundraiser I was participating in. “We never have less by giving,” she said. A valuable lesson from a daughter who is wise beyond her years. The more you contribute, the more you’ll be rewarded. It’s that simple.
5 – Give yourself credit. It’s not egotistical to pat yourself on the back when you’ve accomplished something you set your mind to. It’s healthy to acknowledge your achievements.
6 – Initiate a conversation with someone you don’t know. You never know where this will lead – a new friend? A potential business partner? A wedding?
7 – Listen to your “self talk.” Catch yourself and actually say out loud, “I take that back” each time you tell yourself you’re not enough, or you can’t have, or you’re not worthy.
8 – If you’re in a toxic relationship, reevaluate it. You owe it to yourself to have an honest discussion with this person about how things need to be and what you expect from now on. You deserve love and respect.
9 – Notice what you do well. There is so much you can feel confident about. Become familiar with how it feels to think and say, “Wow, I’m really good at that!”
10 – Resist the urge to get swept up in the mundane drama of life. Close your eyes and see the big picture…your better self.
11 – Comparing yourself to others is counterproductive. Compare yourself to yourself. Are you growing? Are you learning? Are you loving? You are amazing!
12 – Do your feared thing first. The longer you leave that big frog on your plate, the bigger it will grow and the more energy it will zap. There’s a reason “Just Do It” is such a popular slogan!
13 – Connect to your soul’s divine center. Find your own inherent value independent of any relationship you’re in or any accolades you receive. Feels good, doesn’t it? And of course, that confidence will only enhance your relationships and bring you more accolades.
14 – People watch. Think of the people you respect – those who exude confidence. What is it about them? You don’t need to copy them…but you can identify qualities you want to emulate.
15 – Believe in magic. I’ve found that certain rituals come in handy when my confidence needs a boost – right before I walk on stage, for example. The Energy Medicine techniques I’ve learned at Sanoviv, such as scooping energy upward from below my waist to the top of my head while taking deep cleansing breaths or tapping energy points on my body help me immensely. I also carry a little angel wherever I go. This probably goes back to my love of Dumbo and his magic feather. Yes, the magic was inside all along, but it sure helped to hold on to something.
16 – Build on little successes. It’s not necessary to fling yourself head-on into overwhelming challenges. For example, if you want to become a Star Diamond in USANA…it’s okay to declare that intention, but absolutely critical to earn your first check, then earn a weekly check, then earn $1,000.00 a month, and move up from there. With each successive step your confidence will grow.
17 – Track your achievements. I’m understanding this concept better than ever with my new Nike Fuel Band. It’s a wristband I wear that tracks my activity level each day. My confidence grows with each day I hit my goal and I love looking back over the past week or the past month to see my progress. There’s even a cute little figure that pops up on my phone when I earn a new achievement. Hmmm…how could we use these concepts in building our USANA businesses?
18 – It’s okay to have a practice round. In our family, we love to play games and each time we teach a new game to someone, we have a “practice round” — an opportunity for that person to play without it really counting. I think we need to do this in life as well. I think of those first few presentations I gave as practice rounds. I think of the first couple times I spoke at conventions as practice rounds. Even if (when) I goofed up, the world kept spinning. Practice rounds are a way to take some of the pressure off while building your self confidence.
19 – Sit in the front row. Why do people sit in the back? Is it because they don’t want to be called on, don’t want to be noticed? Sitting up front boosts confidence. You’re visible to the people speaking and you will be more engaged in what is going on.
20 – Exercise. Admittedly, I’ve come to this party pretty late in the game…but oh my…the impact it’s had on my self-confidence is immense. Fitness has a direct impact on self confidence. By improving your health and fitness level, you improve everything about your life. Having the discipline to exercise every day makes you feel more in control of your life. You look better, you feel better and you have the energy and momentum necessary to accomplish amazing things — including building a business.
21 – Say something. In group discussions, just speak up. People are generally much less judgmental than we imagine and are often dealing with their own fears around speaking in public. By offering your input you show confidence and set yourself apart as a leader.
22 – Try something new. Dust off that old “to do before I die” list and take on a new challenge. Doing what you’ve been doing over and over again can turn familiarity into apathy. A new direction, a new conquest, a new challenge wakes us up.
23 – Pray. Just try it and see how you feel.
24 – Your weaknesses can become your strengths. It happens all the time and it can happen to you. I’d love to hear your examples.
25 – Becoming self-confident is a journey – an ongoing process of growth and discovery. You don’t win the game and then take off the uniform! There is no end-point, no goal to be reached. You crawl, you stand, you walk, you run…and along the way, as your self-confidence grows, you lift and love.

Started the new year right with my Health and Freedom Presentation.

Nothing beats the start of the year by doing it right! Since I'm transferring some of my post on facebook to my blogspot, I decided to post my Health and Freedom Presentation here. Enjoy it and join my team of motivated and self-driven entrepreneurs!

You can reach me at the following email:
mark.ryan.c.mauricio@usana.com
mrcmauricio17@gmail.com

Cheers!
Mark

Welcome!

If you are searching for an unparalleled home-based business capitalizing on the booming wellness trend, you are exactly where you need to be. With USANA's  cutting-edge, web-based training and support, it allowed us to help thousands realize their own dreams of improved health and financial freedom. We can teach YOU to build a successful, income-generating USANA business that has no limits.
Here you can see health related topics as well as entrepreneurial tips as the blog name says "True Health. True Health. Live it!"