No Desserts on a Diet? Think Again!

Posted in Heather MacDonald, Recipes. "No Desserts on a Diet? Think Again!" Shakeology Blog

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10 Vegan Sources of Protein

Veganism and vegetarianism are becoming more and more popular in our society, as science advances and we learn about the negative effects animal proteins can have on our bodies. There have been great documentaries, such as Forks Over Knives and Food, Inc., that we highly recommend you check out if you want to learn more about this topic!

But say you're already in the know that eating animal fats and proteins has been scientifically linked to raising the risk of developing cancer, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, hypertension, and heart disease, and you want to make a change. Little steps in the right direction are a great place to start! We recommend "meatless weekdays," a lifestyle where you don't eat any animal proteins during the week, but on the weekend you're free to indulge in animal proteins. Even small changes like these can dramatically improve your health without taking the plunge into a strictly vegan or vegetarian diet that can be challenging to stick to.

No matter what lifestyle you think is best for your individual health needs, we urge you to keep a high-protein diet that promotes muscle growth and keeps you healthy. The myth that many meat-eaters have about vegetarians or vegans not being able to get enough protein without eating animal products is simply that—a myth. There are plenty of ways you can get protein without eating animal products, and the following list is a good place to start:

1. Veggies. One cup of cooked spinach contains about 7 grams of protein. The same serving of French beans contains about 13 grams. Two cups of cooked kale? 5 grams. One cup of boiled peas? 9 grams. You get the idea.
2. Hemp. Toss 30 grams of hemp powder in your smoothie and get about 11 grams of protein—just like that.
3. Non-dairy milk. A mere cup of almond milk can pack about 7 to 9 grams of protein. Rice milk, coconut milk, and hemp milk are other good options.
4. Tropical Strawberry Shakeology^®. One scoop offers 15 grams of protein (30 percent of your daily value).
5. Nut butter. A couple of tablespoons of any nut butter (think almond, sunflower seed, flaxseed, or peanut) will get you 8 grams of protein.
6. Quinoa. It's the star of the vegan diet—you get 9 grams of protein per cup!
7. Lentils. You can make rice dishes, veggie burgers, casseroles, and more. One cup cooked delivers a whopping 18 grams of protein!
8. Beans. With one cup of pinto, kidney, or black beans, you'll get about 13 to 15 grams of protein, a full belly, and heart-healthy fiber.
9. Tempeh. One cup of tempeh packs about 30 grams of protein! That's more than 5 eggs or a regular hamburger patty.
10. Sprouted grain bread. Offers about 10 grams of protein, and tastes great as toast or in a veggie sprout sandwich!

We hope this serves as a great jumping point to launch your healthier, vegan-esque lifestyle, or at the very least, helps you make some educated, meat-free diet choices more often! Stay healthy, friends.

Posted in Heather MacDonald, Expert Tips and Advice. "10 Vegan Sources of Protein" Shakeology Blog

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We Can Either Pay the Farmer, or We Can Pay the Hospital!

11-year-old Birke Baehr really knows his stuff about healthy farming practices and nutrition, as showcased in his TEDxNextGenerationAsheville talk. Baehr stresses shopping locally from farmers' markets, buying organic food, and educating people (especially children) about where their food actually comes from! There's a common misconception about where your meat comes from and how the animals are treated; Baehr argues that above all else, educating people about the malpractices that take place on these farms is the top motivation for the general public to eat better!

We agree and think Baehr is absolutely inspiring—some might even say a future Darin Olien!

Click here to watch his TEDxNextGenerationAsheville talk, "What's Wrong With Our Food System? And How Can We Make a Difference?"

Posted in Heather MacDonald, Health News. "We Can Either Pay the Farmer, or We Can Pay the Hospital!" Shakeology Blog

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Rachel B. Won $1,000 for Losing 112 lbs. with Shakeology^®!

Tell us about your life pre-Shakeology.
I gained 150 lbs. during my pregnancy, and after I had my baby, I felt awful—in every way. I was sick. I was in pain. I developed non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, which is liver inflammation from having a fatty liver. I ended up having to have my gallbladder taken out because my liver was so full of fat; it couldn't function properly and started to back up. Blood work showed I was pre-diabetic. Worse than the physical health, though, was the fact that I was depressed. I just had a baby, and I couldn't even enjoy him because I was so ashamed of myself. None of my clothes fit. I wore maternity clothes because size 30 was too tight.

What inspired you to change your life and begin your transformation journey?
My inspiration to change my life came from my son and the reality that if I continued the way I was going, I wasn't going to be around for him. When I first logged into the Team Beachbody^® message boards, everyone was raving about Shakeology and how healthy it made them feel—how it changed their lives and their health. People were saying that using it helped them lower their cholesterol and blood sugar. I was tentative at first, because of the price, but I weighed it out and realized that I was paying for one month's worth of meals—so really, it wasn't that expensive. I had no reason to not try it other than the excuses I was making to myself.

One of my favorite things about Shakeology is how versatile it is. I can use it as my breakfast—adding some berries or almond butter to it—;and it keeps me fueled and energized for a few hours. I can use it as damage control—blend it with a frozen banana, almond butter, and vanilla extract—and turn it into chocolate ice cream, which is perfect for me when I have that late night sweet craving. It taught me how to use willpower—it takes a lot of willpower to make the choice to say, "No, thank you. I would not like to have a piece of cake. I will have a shake instead." It was the beginning of learning to use willpower for me.

Tell us about the greatest challenge you faced. How did you overcome that challenge?
Emotional eating has always been a hard challenge for me. I can be right on the ball all day and eat perfectly cleanly, but should something stressful arise, I comfort it with food. When I've had a hard, busy day, I relax and unwind with food. With P90X^® and TurboFire^®, my metabolism was revved up very high, which was wonderful, but it made fighting the willpower battle even harder. Shakeology made it easier—I had a healthy option I could turn to. In fact, as soon as I started making a pattern out of making healthy choices like that, I started feeling better about myself and even liking myself. I wasn't living in perpetual self-loathing and guilt.

Describe the results you achieved with Shakeology. Which achievements are you proud of?
I am so proud of all the inches of fat I have lost on my body. I am so proud of the energy and endurance I have, and of how healthy I feel. I am so proud that I have learned how to eat real foods and lose weight without dieting. After using Shakeology every day for almost a year, I've noticed that I no longer get acne breakouts, my skin tone is even, my liver levels are back to normal, my glucose numbers no longer indicate pre-diabetes, and most of all, I am so proud of how strong my willpower and mental fitness has become, because really—we are what we tell ourselves and how we treat ourselves. Using Shakeology means I am honoring my body, and it shows.

If you have a Shakeology or Beachbody^® product Success Story of your own, submit it in the Beachbody Challenge™ like Rachel for a chance to win up to $100,000! Click here for more details.

Posted in Heather MacDonald, Shakeology^® Inspiring Stories. "Rachel B. Won $1,000 for Losing 112 lbs. with Shakeology^®!" Shakeology Blog

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Eat Your Heart Out

Blueberry Sunshine:

• 1 scoop Chocolate Shakeology^®
• 1/2 cup blueberries
• 1/2 banana
• 1 cup vanilla almond milk

Dark Moon:

• 1 scoop Tropical Strawberry Shakeology
• 1 cup rice milk
• 1/4 cup blackberries
• 1 Tbsp. walnut pieces

Pineapple a Go-Go:

• 1 scoop Greenberry Shakeology
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 banana
• 1/2 cup water

Carrot Cake:

• 1 scoop Tropical Strawberry Shakeology
• 1 cup rice milk
• 1/2 cup steamed carrots
• 1 Tbsp. almond butter
• 1/8 tsp. cinnamon

Papaya Coconut:

• 1 scoop Tropical Strawberry Shakeology
• 1 cup coconut water
• 1/2 cup papaya chunks
• 1/2 banana

Cranberry Crumble:

• 1 scoop Chocolate Shakeology
• 1 cup vanilla almond milk
• 1/2 cup natural cranberry juice
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries

Posted in Heather MacDonald, Shakeology^® Recipes. "Eat Your Heart Out" Shakeology Blog

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The Number of Superfoods in Shakeology^® Is Rivaled by None

There are many protein shakes and meal replacements that are less expensive than Shakeology, but none of them have as many quality superfoods as Shakeology does. Usually the "you get what you pay for" logic rings true, and the shake biz is definitely a case where it applies!

Shakeology has 70+ ingredients, 41 of which are defined as "superfoods"—foods that are loaded with essential nutrients that enhance energy, boost immunity, and improve moods. Other shakes may trumpet their number of ingredients too, but they don't come close to Shakeology. Plus, too often their "magic ingredients" have been isolated from the enzymes and phytonutrients that actually make the ingredients useful when consumed.

In contrast, Shakeology has been formulated in such a way that all the ingredients work together to give you synergistic benefits; they weren't just slapped together and packaged as an açaí juice or a chia nutrition bar because ingredients like açaí and chia are super hot in the media (even though Shakeology has those too!). Shakeology's ingredients work together like a symphony, and this combination is so effective that some people report dramatic benefits in the first week!

Here is a list of the superfoods we're currently using in Shakeology. Try to incorporate some more of these in your diet throughout the day along with Shakeology, and you'll be feelin' super, super good!

Posted in Heather MacDonald, Shakeology^® Product News. "The Number of Superfoods in Shakeology^® Is Rivaled by None" Shakeology Blog

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Gwyneth Paltrow's Favorite Shake Recipes

Starting your day off right with a breakfast that offers a nutritional boost of healthy vitamins and proteins can do wonders for your body and your day! That's why it's no surprise that the well-known health nut and foodie Gwyneth Paltrow was recently told by her doctor to start her day with a protein shake for optimal health. Her recent Goop newsletter featured delicious shake recipes that were no doubt made by her personal chef, so we took them and added 70+ superfoods to make one hell of a nutrient-packed breakfast menu! Enjoy Shakeology^®, celebrity style.

Blueberry Avocado Smoothie

"My secret for extra creamy smoothies? Avocado! One of my favorite foods with benefits. They have healthy fats, more magnesium and less sugar than bananas, so they make a great base ingredient for many breakfast smoothie recipes."—Gwyneth Paltrow

• 1 scoop Greenberry or Tropical Strawberry Shakeology
• 1 cup frozen organic blueberries
• Small piece of avocado—about 1/5 of a large avocado or 1/4 of a small one
• 1 cup coconut water, or 1/2 cup filtered water and 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
• Juice of half a lime
• 4 ice cubes
• 1 tsp. raw honey

Add all ingredients to blender and pulse until smooth and creamy.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 382
Fat: 9 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Cholesterol: 10 mg
Sodium: 353 mg
Carbohydrate: 61 g
Fiber: 13 g
Sugar: 39 g
Protein: 21 g

Chocolate Love Smoothie

• 1 scoop Chocolate Shakeology
• 4 to 6 oz. water
• 4 to 6 oz. unsweetened vanilla almond milk
• 1/3 frozen banana cut into chunks
• Small piece of avocado—about 1/5 of a large avocado or 1/4 of a small one
• 1 tsp. raw honey
• 1 Tbsp. coconut oil
• 2 to 4 ice cubes

Add all ingredients to blender and pulse until smooth and creamy.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 425
Fat: 24 g
Saturated Fat: 13 g
Cholesterol: 15 mg
Sodium: 194 mg
Carbohydrate: 37 g
Fiber: 8 g
Sugar: 19 g
Protein: 20 g

Piña Colada Smoothie

• 1 scoop Tropical Strawberry Shakeology
• 4 to 6 oz. water
• 4 to 6 oz. unsweetened vanilla almond milk
• 1 cup frozen pineapple pieces
• Small piece of avocado—about 1/5 of a large avocado or 1/4 of a small one
• 1 Tbsp. coconut oil
• 1 Tbsp. shredded unsweetened coconut
• 2 to 4 ice cubes

Add all ingredients to blender and pulse until smooth and creamy.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 481
Fat: 26 g
Saturated Fat: 15 g
Cholesterol: 10 mg
Sodium: 166 mg
Carbohydrate: 48 g
Fiber: 11 g
Sugar: 27 g
Protein: 18 g

Mint Chocolate Chip Smoothie

• 1 scoop Chocolate Shakeology
• 4 to 6 oz. water
• 4 to 6 oz. unsweetened vanilla almond milk
• 1 cup frozen pineapple pieces
• Small piece of avocado—about 1/5 of a large avocado or 1/4 of a small one
• 1/4 cup loosely packed fresh mint leaves, or 1/8 tsp. organic peppermint extract
• 1 tsp. raw honey
• 2 to 4 ice cubes

Add all ingredients to blender and pulse until smooth and creamy.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 275
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Cholesterol: 15 mg
Sodium: 196 mg
Carbohydrate: 29 g
Fiber: 7 g
Sugar: 15 g
Protein: 20 g

Greeno Mojito Smoothie

• 1 scoop Greenberry Shakeology
• Small piece of avocado—about 1/5 of a large avocado or 1/4 of a small one
• 1/4 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
• Juice of one lime
• 1 cup filtered water
• 3 to 4 ice cubes

Add all ingredients to blender and pulse until smooth and creamy.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 251
Fat: 8 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Cholesterol: 10 mg
Sodium: 101 mg
Carbohydrate: 31 g
Fiber: 7 g
Sugar: 17 g
Protein: 17 g

Posted in Heather MacDonald, Shakeology^® Recipes. "Gwyneth Paltrow's Favorite Shake Recipes" Shakeology Blog

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What to Eat: The 411 on Superfoods and Nutrition

So what is a whole food anyway? What is it that compels Darin Olien to venture to the lab and test familiar and exotic fruits and plants to put in Shakeology^®?

Eating for life requires more of us than simply eating. We must be committed to educating ourselves on the latest research, but we must also be willing to listen to our inner voice. That voice itself will direct you to certain foods over others. For example, it doesn't take an herbalist or student of nutrition to know that an apple is better for you than a soft drink, because of how it makes your body feel.

When we think logically and rationally about what food is supposed to do for our bodies, it becomes obvious that eating whole foods is essential. Common questions we hear are: What exactly is a whole food? Can I buy them at my local market? Can I afford them on a budget? And if whole foods are just that, whole and complete, does that mean other foods are incomplete?

A whole food is a food in its complete form that hasn't been processed or isolated into fractions. Beachbody^® followed the whole food philosophy when we made Shakeology, in that the majority of minerals and vitamins are derived from whole foods. We believe that each plant and fruit made in nature is made perfectly; there is a perfect balance of minerals and nutrients to support absorption rates and create beneficial chemical reactions inside the human body. When you eat nutritious superfoods whole, you get the "symphony" of all the vitamins and minerals working together as nature intended (instead of taking them in isolated forms such as individual vitamin supplements).

Eating whole foods is a foolproof way to fuel your body correctly, and these foods are everywhere, including your local grocery store and your farmers' market. Fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds, and anything that fits into the definition listed above can be considered to be a whole food. In order to choose optimally amongst these items, it's important to remember to always buy organic to avoid unsafe pesticides, and always try to buy foods in season. We urge you to check the labels too! Don't just assume things are good for you, because many nuts, seeds, and dried fruits often have unwanted additives or sugars that thwart the pure nutrition of the product.

The question of affordability is unfortunately a common concern in the whole food industry—some people think twice about paying high prices for organic produce. There is an easy answer for those who are unsure whether the higher prices are worth it: They're absolutely worth it! Here's why: The nutrients received from whole foods will improve your body's overall functioning, and in contrast, processed foods with added sugars and other chemicals offer nothing to your body except harm and a fake feeling of satiety.

The non-whole foods that may be part of your diet are considered "bulk foods." Bulk foods are designed to trick the body into thinking it's full, when in reality it's starving for nutrients and possibly storing unnecessary bulk as extra body fat. Since the feeling of fullness after eating bulk foods is mostly a facade, you will most likely end up consuming more in quantity, thus paying more overall than you might if you were eating more whole foods.

After reviewing the definition of a whole food, perhaps you will eat more consciously today, and eating consciously today could lead to eating consciously tomorrow because of how good you feel! Good choices lead to more good choices because your body is grateful for the nutrients you provide it with. So the next time you are food shopping and asking yourself what you should buy, take a moment to access your inner voice. Simply look at, touch, and smell the foods around you, and pay attention to what your body's asking for!

Posted in Heather MacDonald and Darin Olien, Shakeology^® Expert Tips and Advice. "What to Eat: The 411 on Superfoods and Nutrition" Shakeology Blog

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Who Said You Can't Build Muscle on a Vegan Diet?

Shakeology^® creator Darin Olien is a prime example of a muscular and fit vegan! There's a common misperception that you need tons of animal protein to build muscle, but alas, that's not true. Darin drinks Tropical Strawberry Shakeology every day and believes that the vegan brown rice protein in this flavor's blend is the perfect meal for someone with an active lifestyle who's looking to build muscle.

In conjunction with the brown rice protein in Shakeology, Darin stresses that it's important to get plant proteins from several other sources as well; eating a variety of plant proteins is the key to proper nutrition and muscle growth. Other good protein-rich, vegan-friendly foods are nuts, beans, and grains. Some of our favorite options include nuts, nut butters, black beans, lentils, peas, hummus, veggie burgers, and grains like wheat, rye, and oats.

Posted in Heather MacDonald, Shakeology^® Expert Tips and Advice. "Who Said You Can't Build Muscle on a Vegan Diet?" Shakeology Blog

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How Do I Really Know If Shakeology^® Is Worth the Money When Everything Else Costs Less?

There are many protein shakes and meal replacements that are less expensive than Shakeology. But comparisons based on the simple "protein shake" or even "health shake" are usually off the mark and don't stack up to Shakeology.

Shakeology was designed for people who want more than protein, and for people who want the health benefits being represented by the ingredients on the label. To really know whether a product measures up to Shakeology, you need to keep some things in mind:

How much is enough?

We are proud of Shakeology's 70+ ingredients. Other shakes will trumpet the number of ingredients they have too. But are the ingredients they are counting actually good for you? Are there any artificial flavors or colors listed in those ingredients? Not in Shakeology!

Are they derived from whole-food sources? They are in Shakeology! Too often the "magic ingredient" has been isolated from the enzymes and phytonutrients that actually make the ingredient useful when consumed.

And does the competition formulate for the synergistic benefits between the ingredients, or just slap together whatever is hot in the media? Shakeology was specially formulated for the collection of ingredients to work together like a symphony; this combination is so effective, some people report dramatic benefits within the first week. Other supplements point to one or two individual ingredients and build a "story" around their superfood attributes.

Protein

Pay attention to a product's protein source or blend. Protein sources like whey protein hydrolysate have been shown to trigger a much higher insulin response in the body. That's not an outcome we would tolerate in Shakeology.

Our protein source is whey protein isolate, which is more than 90 percent pure protein. Plus, Shakeology is loaded with digestive enzymes and lactase—that's the enzyme that breaks down lactose and is found in over-the-counter products like Lactaid^®. Don't confuse whey protein concentrate with isolate. Whey protein concentrate is the least pure form of whey protein made. The benefit of isolate versus concentrate is that the fat has been removed to achieve isolate. The fat in whey protein is what carries toxins consumed by the animal. That's the reason Shakeology can be used by so many people who are lactose-intolerant—because those toxins have been removed through the isolate process.

For our vegan formulation, we use sprouted brown rice protein, not soy. Does the competition use ANY soy in their formulation? Soy protein contains estrogen, mimicking compounds that can interfere with your hormones. On top of that, most of the soy in the marketplace is GMO (genetically modified). These are two important reasons why we don't use soy in Shakeology.

Glycemic index tested . . .

In terms of sugar, many protein shakes contain 1 gram of sugar or less. This is because they are using artificial chemical sweeteners. (Check the label for sucralose, aspartame, or sugar alcohols.) Shakeology's small amounts of sugar comes from natural sources and whole superfoods like coconut flower nectar and luo han guo, which are easily processed by the body and, in fact, have been tested and certified by an independent lab to have a low glycemic index of 24—that's lower than most fruits! (An apple is 36, and an orange is 43.)

What's not in the base, they may suggest you add later

Other shakes don't cost as much as Shakeology at first glance, but they also don't contain the full profile of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for some vitamins and minerals, or whole-food sources of antioxidants, phytonutrients, adaptogen herbs, prebiotics, probiotics, or digestive enzymes. We've seen competitors make you buy a separate vitamin pack for $150 per month! Once you add it up, this is hardly a "good deal," and it's usually hardly even a good product.

To achieve the benefits of Shakeology we've seen, competitors charge between $250 and $335 per month! $120 doesn't seem expensive when you realize all of the benefits Shakeology delivers.

Formula: 70+ of the healthiest ingredients from whole-food sources from around the world VERSUS protein, fillers, artificial coloring, and isolated glamour ingredients
Winner: Shakeology

Protein Source: Shakeology's pure whey protein isolate or plant-based sprouted brown rice protein VERSUS soy, hydrolyzed whey, and/or whey concentrate blend
Winner: Shakeology

Taste: Rich Chocolate, tangy Greenberry, or fruity Tropical Strawberry Shakeology VERSUS chemically-derived, artificially-flavored competition
Winner: Shakeology

Price: $120 for Shakeology VERSUS—Oops! It's impossible to compare lesser formulations on price. But if you add in all the separate vitamins and flavoring agents the other companies ask you to buy to match the benefits and nutritional content of Shakeology, you would easily spend over $300 every month—that's 2 and half times the cost of Shakeology!
Winner: Shakeology

But the best comparison is results. From weight loss, to reduction in cravings, to regularity, to healthier cholesterol levels, to increased energy levels, to an overall sense of well being . . . We give a bottom-of-the-bag guarantee on Shakeology because we KNOW people will be amazed by how they feel. Shakeology is the winner by a total knock out!

Posted in Carolina Gutnisky, Shakeology^® Product News. "How Do I Really Know If Shakeology is Worth the Money When Everything Else Costs Less?" Shakeology Blog

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Boost Your Hydration with Himalayan Salt

Minerals, including salt, are essential to life. We can't live without them. Sadly, today's common table salt (sodium chloride), found in most homes and restaurants and in all processed foods, contains none of the trace minerals that make salt good for us.

Himalayan salt, which can be found in Tropical Strawberry Shakeology^®, contains pure crystal salt that is minimally processed and contains up to 84 natural minerals and elements. These elements promote stable pH, aid with the absorption of food particles through the digestive tract, regulate water content through the body, prevent muscle cramps, and help support cellular function.

So, how can you use Himalayan salt in your diet?

It's easy! You can always drink Tropical Strawberry Shakeology but if that's not your chosen flavor, fear not—we recommend substituting the current salt you're using for Himalayan anyways! It tastes similar and is WAY better for you. That part is a no-brainer, but another insider tip that Darin and Isabel (creators of Shakeology) have been doing for years and that lends to the amazing results people have gotten from the Ultimate Reset™ is adding Himalayan salt to distilled water for extra hydration.

Hydration is a huge part of the health equation, and drinking distilled water is the best way to hydrate your body. Distilled water is the purest water available; unlike tap, filtered, or bottled water, distilled water is stripped of everything except for its oxygen and hydrogen molecules. In order to get the minerals you need, Darin and Isabel recommend you add a pinch of Himalayan salt to your distilled water to supply you with the essential minerals and electrolytes your body needs for optimum health.

Recipe: Add half a teaspoon of Himalayan salt per gallon of distilled water, or a pinch (0.8 grams) to each 12 to 32 oz. glass of distilled water.

What water to drink:

• First choice: distilled water with Himalayan salt added.
• Second choice: tap water filtered through a reliable reverse osmosis or carbon filtration system, not a pitcher filtration unit.
• Last choice: bottled water, preferably smartwater^® or Penta^®. (Bottled water comes last because most of it isn't better than tap water.)

Where to find Himalayan salt: Trader Joe's^®, Whole Foods Market^®, online.

Happy hydrating!

Posted in Heather McDonald, Shakeology^® Expert Tips and Advice. "Boost Your Hydration with Himalayan Salt " Shakeology Blog

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Meet Coconut Flower Nectar and Luo Han Guo, Vegan Tropical Strawberry Shakeology's Naturally Sweet Ingredients

While there are some key differences between the Tropical Strawberry blend and the Greenberry and Chocolate blends (namely being that Tropical Strawberry is vegan), Tropical Strawberry also uses a different sweetening agent. Tropical Strawberry Shakeology's natural sweetness comes from a blend of luo han guo, a low-calorie, low-glycemic food that has been used in Asia for nearly a millennium, and coconut flower nectar, the nutritious and sweet nectar from a coconut!

Luo han guo

Luo han guo has long been used in Asia for medicinal purposes, such as respiratory support, and as a traditional sore throat soother. Today we believe this ingredient to be a powerful antioxidant that can help support your immune system and promote longevity. Also, since it's a low-glycemic-index fruit, it can also be helpful for those who want to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

Darin in a palm tree, sampling the coconut nectar

Coconut flower nectar, the other sweetening super fruit, is particularly interesting because it's the naturally sweet, nutrient-rich "sap" or nectar that comes from coconut blossoms. All of the components of a coconut have wonderful health benefits, but the nectar contains 17 amino acids, minerals, and vitamin C; has a broad spectrum of B vitamins; and is high in potassium, magnesium, zinc, and iron. It also has a high content of inulin, a prebiotic fiber, which feeds our intestinal flora and helps boost digestive and immune functions.

Along with all of coconut flower nectar's nutrition, it's also low on the glycemic index (GI), so it produces a slow energy release, helping to sustain your body through daily activities without "highs" and "lows." This is important to those who are concerned about weight control and diabetes, because unlike sugarcane-based sweeteners, refined white sugar, brown sugar, molasses, and dehydrated cane juice sweeteners (all of which have a high glycemic index rating—55 to 100 per serving), coconut flower nectar is lower on the GI scale, making it a healthier alternative.

And there you have it, luo han guo and coconut flower nectar impart a healthy sweetening system that tastes delicious too! To learn more interesting new facts about Tropical Strawberry Shakeology^®, stay tuned for the next blog post on konjac root.

Posted in Heather McDonald, Shakeology^® Ingredient Spotlight. "Meet Coconut Flower Nectar and Luo Han Guo, Vegan Tropical Strawberry Shakeology's Naturally Sweet Ingredients" Shakeology Blog

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RevAbs^® Trainer Brett Hoebel Tells Us His Favorite Recipes!

CHOCOLATE:

Parfait: 400 calories
Ingredients:
1 cup almond milk or water
1 scoop Chocolate Shakeology^®
1 to 2 cups ice
1/2 cup low-sugar granola or cereal
1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

Directions:
Blend Shakeology, almond milk, and ice first. Layer the granola and fruit on top.
1st layer = Shakeology (the bottom 1/3 of the glass)
2nd layer = granola or cereal
3rd layer = mixed fruit
4th layer = more Shakeology
5th layer = remaining mixed fruit
Optional to sprinkle PB2^® on the very top!

The Snickers: 257.5 calories
Ingredients:
1 scoop Chocolate Shakeology
1 cup almond milk or water
2 to 4 Tbsp. PB2
2 to 3 cups ice

Directions:
Blend. Layer the PB2 throughout the shake.

Zest: 257.34 calories
Ingredients:
1 scoop Chocolate Shakeology
2 to 4 Tbsp. PB2
1/2 tsp. raw honey
1 freshly squeezed orange
Orange zest shaved inside
1 to 2 cups ice

Directions:
Blend. Add almond milk or water to make less thick.

Mint Chocolate: 191.18 calories
Ingredients:
1 scoop chocolate Shakeology
1 cup almond milk or water
3 drops peppermint extract
1 to 2 cups ice

Directions:
Blend.

GREENBERRY:

Go Green: 257.34 calories
1 scoop Greenberry Shakeology
1 cup almond milk or water
1/2 avocado
2 to 3 drops vanilla extract
1 to 2 cups ice

Directions:
Blend.

Popeye: 358.8 calories
1 scoop Greenberry Shakeology
1 cup almond milk or water
1 Tbsp. raw almond butter
1 bunch spinach
1/2 cup organic silken tofu
1 to 2 cups ice

Directions:
Blend. To make it less sweet, add vegetables instead of fruit. Silken tofu makes the shake creamier with only 45 calories per serving, plus 5 more grams of protein and 0 grams of fat. Silken tofu also eliminates the "chalky" taste some experience. Kale, Swiss chard, collard greens, spinach—you can get as much calcium from these greens as you can from milk!

TROPICAL STRAWBERRY SHAKEOLOGY:

Brazil Breakfast Bowl: 397 calories
1 scoop Tropical Shakeology
1/3 cup of açaí juice
3/4 cup mixed berries
2 to 3 cups ice
1/4 cup low-sugar granola cereal
1/4 cup granola

Directions:
Blend. Pour thick shake in a bowl; sprinkle half with low-sugar granola cereal and the other half with granola.

Pomegranate Pump: 230 calories
1 scoop Tropical Strawberry Shakeology
1/2 bottle pomegranate-infused coconut water, or 1/4 cup POM Wonderful^® juice and 3/4 cup coconut water
1 to 2 cups ice

Directions:
Blend.

Click here to watch the video!

Visit this album on the Shakeology Facebook^® page to see exactly what brands and products Brett used throughout the video chat!

All trademarks, products, and service names are the property of their respective owners.

Posted in Heather McDonald, Shakeology^® Recipes. "RevAbs^® Trainer Brett Hoebel Tells Us His Favorite Recipes!" Shakeology Blog

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Jolie D. Lost 43 lbs. and 7" Off Her Waist with Shakeology^® and LES MILLS PUMP!

How did Shakeology support your transformation? What are the biggest benefits?
SHAKEOLOGY CHANGED MY LIFE! Where do I begin? It gave me energy. Boundless energy. As a teacher, I used to have "foggy brain," and when I returned to work this year, I found that it made my thinking clear-headed. I don't have to nap in the afternoon anymore! The cardiologist who had examined me last December for an irregular heartbeat was ready to put me on meds for high cholesterol, but Shakeology took my HDL level down 77 points in only 6 weeks. In addition to that, for 20 years my dentists would nag me about the poor shape of my gums; I was going to have to undergo an expensive gum procedure. After 8 months on Shakeology, not only are my gums better, but they have healed! No more need for the treatment. I can't forget to mention how it curbs my cravings for those "bad" carbs and caffeine, and how it rid me of those dreaded hot flashes. Thank you, Shakeology!

What inspired you to change your life and begin your transformation journey?
In my younger years, I struggled with my weight, but I managed to work out at the gym or walk 5 miles, and that seemed to keep me in decent shape. After an early menopause, the weight started creeping on; the usual workouts didn't fit the bill, and dieting alone provided short-term results. By the time I was 52, I had gained over 35 lbs., and I knew I had to get it together.

I knew that the usual things I had tried in the past weren't working anymore. Treadmill walking, roaming at the club from weight machine to weight machine, using the few fitness DVDs I owned—these were pointless at this juncture in my life because they didn't produce the results I knew I needed, and I would give up. When I saw my Coach talking about LES MILLS PUMP on Facebook^®, I dropped him a note, and it began the biggest change of my entire life to date!

What did you like about LES MILLS PUMP, and what kind of results did you see?
It's an intense program that keeps my muscles guessing minute by minute, and has added to my muscle tone! I beamed the first time I was able to show my Coach the biceps that were forming in my arms. I think my absolute greatest thrill is the strength coming back to my shoulder and neck muscles. It took FOREVER to be able to do ONE push-up on my toes. I can now crank a solid 35. I am most proud of those! I feel like a dynamo-powerhouse heading into my 54th birthday!

If you have a Shakeology or Beachbody^® product Success Story of your own, submit it in the Beachbody Challenge™ like Jolie for a chance to win up to $100,000! Click here for more details.

All trademarks, products, and service names are the property of their respective owners.

Posted in Heather McDonald, Shakeology^® Inspiring Stories. "Jolie D. Lost 43 lbs. and 7" Off Her Waist with Shakeology^® and LES MILLS PUMP!" Shakeology Blog

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Shakeology^® Is Low-Glycemic: What That Means and Why It Matters to You!

What's the Glycemic Index? Simply put, the glycemic index is a way to measure how carbohydrates react in your blood. When you eat carbs, your blood sugar level rises anywhere from a little to a lot. The GI (Glycemic Index) uses a scale of 0 to 100, with higher numbers given to foods that cause the most rapid rise in blood sugar.

What do high-GI foods do to my body? They cause the body to produce higher levels of insulin, but sometimes too much. This gives you an energy burst known as a "sugar rush." It feels good at first, but then your blood sugar drops rapidly and you "crash." Eating low-GI foods is a smart way to avoid this, because they stabilize your blood sugar levels instead of spiking them.

What kind of high-GI foods to steer away from and why:

Foods with a high GI (above 70) include white bread, pretzels, potatoes, and most processed foods. Eating these foods triggers a rapid rise in blood sugar and insulin levels, which:

• Encourages the body to store fat
• Creates a cycle of hunger pangs and feeling unsatisfied
• Causes an energy crash that leaves you irritated or tired
• Can lead to high blood pressure, fluid retention and diabetes

In contrast, foods with a low GI (under 55)—like broccoli, oatmeal, peanuts, and Shakeology—help stabilize blood sugar and insulin levels, which:

• Increases levels of glycogen, a hormone that causes body fat to be burned
• Helps satisfy feelings of hunger
• Helps balance moods
• Reduces the risk of heart disease, helps control diabetes, and positively affects the aging process

So you see, eating low-GI foods like Shakeology is good for you! Shakeology's GI rating of 24 is much lower than most fruits and some vegetables. Low-GI foods help keep your sugar levels in check while supplying nutrition that satisfies, energizes, and helps promote good health!

Posted in Heather McDonald, Shakeology^® in the Press. "Shakeology^® Is Low-Glycemic: What That Means and Why It Matters to You!" Shakeology Blog

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TreeHugger.com says, "Superfood Hunter Darien Olien Has a Really Fun Job," and we agree!

Discovery Channel^® wrote a piece on Darin last week, and they were so pleased with our mission and the interest they got in it that they wrote another article about Shakeology^® on TreeHugger.com (an affiliate of the Discovery^® Network).

TreeHugger.com was particularly interested in our sustainable farming practices. They focused on the fact that, "when Olien finds an ingredient he thinks would be perfect for Shakeology, he works with the locals to create farms to harvest the ingredient in a sustainable fashion, providing jobs and much-needed income to these isolated areas."

Read the full article!

Posted in Heather McDonald, Shakeology^® in the Press. "Superfood Hunter Darien Olien Has a Really Fun Job" Shakeology Blog

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Discovery Channel^® Talks Shakeology^®

Discovery Channel writer Eric Rogell looked into our mission of "helping people achieve their goals and lead healthy, fulfilling lives," and wrote a stunning review of our beloved Shakeology. The article coined "Nutritional 'Indiana Jones' Searches Remote Jungles and Mountains for Super Foods" gives readers an overview of what we've been up to for the last decade—circling the globe in search of the ultimate superfoods, of course—and the benefits these ancient superfoods can deliver for modern day health.

Don't take our word for it though; soak in the praise by reading the article, and pat yourself on the back for treating your body to such wonderful nutrition on a daily basis!

Posted in Denis Faye, Shakeology^® in the Press. "Discovery Channel^® Talks Shakeology^®" Shakeology Blog

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Your Nutrition Is as Unique as You Are

As a writer/editor working for Beachbody^®, it used to drive me nuts every time a new trainer would come along and I'd have to help him or her design a diet to go along with his or her program. Inevitably, their way of eating would be completely different from any other trainer's philosophy, not to mention my own. I'd do my best not to argue the finer points of fats, carbs, and protein because, well, it's their face on the program. Furthermore, most of the trainers I work with are ridiculously healthy. Who am I to say their vegan or paleo or low-carb method is for the birds?

Then, one day, I discovered a man named Roger Williams. In addition to discovering and naming pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), Dr. Roger wrote a book called Biochemical Individuality. It's a dense read, but well worth the investment. His basic theory is as follows: "All geneticists are agreed that what is inherited by all organisms from their forebears is a range of capacities to respond to a range of environments. The characteristics that an organism possess are fundamentally the outcome of the interaction of heredity and environment."

In other words, because of our DNA and the way it interacts with our environment, we're all going to respond to different stimuli in different ways. In other words, our guts are as different as our personalities, so each of us must find a unique path that works for us—and that includes diet.

Of course, there are some constants. We all need the same various micro and macronutrients to prosper. However, the amounts of those can vary wildly depending on the individual.

There are several obvious examples where external and internal factors can wed to influence nutritional needs. Endurance athletes generally need more carbs to fuel their activities. Little kids need more fats for brain development. But it can go beyond activities or stages of life. Take sodium. Yes, it's important to maintain a balance of sodium and potassium in a diet for everyone, but contrary to popular perception, only a small percentage of the population is "salt sensitive," meaning sodium can actually influence their blood pressure.

Unfortunately, it's difficult to determine if you're one of these unlucky folks, so most diets tend to play it safe and make sweeping generalizations about the role of salt in a diet. And then there are the nutrition rebels who throw their salt sensitive readers out with the marketing bathwater and tell everyone that unlimited salt is fine. Neither view is 100% correct. (Although I'd lean towards the former, if I had to choose.)

For the record, while it may be medically challenging to determine what your relationship with salt is, a little common sense can go a long way. I have a friend whose family tends to live well into their nineties on a diet of enchiladas and beef jerky, so she doesn't worry too much about salt. I, on the other hand, come from a family chock-full o' hypertension sufferers, so I avoid added salt.

But back to my original point. We're all different, so when someone tells you that their diet is perfect, they're right. It's perfect for them. Whether or not it's perfect for you is another question.

So what's an eater to do? My advice is to try all nutrition theories, or at least a lot of them.

• First, narrow down the ones that might not work with your values or lifestyle. For example, the only meat I eat is fish, so it's unlikely I'll be primal eating in the near future. (Apologies to all you cavemen out there.)
• Next, take a look at your past. Was there a time in your life when you were feeling great and achieving a lot? Any diets you've tried already? Maybe there was someone you dated who ate a particular way and, now that you think about it, you felt pretty good when you ate their food.
• Also, start a food log immediately. In fact, make it a life log. Not just what you ate, but how you felt, how your workouts went, how you slept, your mood. Look for trends. Days you were tired. Days you thrived.
• Once you've narrowed the field a little, jump right in, become a human guinea pig. If a diet sounds interesting, give it six to eight weeks. (And remember that life log!)

You're not just looking for an overall result; you're looking for ways to modify this particular diet, should you decide to stick with it. For example, I went grain-free recently. It was great, but I found myself returning to the fridge all morning following my bowl of goat yogurt, fruit, and walnuts. It was a mighty serving, but it just didn't satisfy me. One morning, I ran out of fruit and, in a 6:00 AM haze, tucked into my daughter's Cheerios^®. I felt completely content until lunch. It was at that point I realized I didn't need to go grain-free, I just needed to cut back drastically. Now I have 2 to 3 servings a day, and it works perfectly. It might not for you, but for me? Perfect.

As you explore, make sure not to buy into dogma. If it's not working, try something else. Just as there's the perfect physical activity for you, there's also the perfect way to eat. It just takes a little time, patience, experimentation, and a life log. Did I already mention that life log?

All trademarks, products, and service names are the property of their respective owners.

Posted in Denis Faye, Shakeology^® Expert Tips and Advice. "Your Nutrition Is as Unique as You Are" Shakeology Blog

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Why Is Drinking Shakeology^® Daily Important?

Drinking Shakeology is a lot like brushing your teeth and exercising—you've got to participate in these healthy habits every day to see their benefits. The more you do it, the more you can experience these advantages.

Here are 5 reasons you should drink Shakeology daily:

1. Your cravings for unhealthy foods can eventually disappear—and be replaced by cravings for healthy choices. It's true!
2. You can save time! Replace one meal a day with Shakeology and that's one less meal to plan. Whip up your shake and go. It's fast food that's great for you.
3. You can save money! If you drink Shakeology instead of eating lunch or dinner, you'll spend just $4 on your meal.
4. You can save money, the sequel! As Shakeology improves your digestion, boosts your energy, and keeps you lean, you're bound to have fewer medical bills.
5. You can keep the weight off! Studies show that people who eat breakfast every day are less likely to regain the weight. Furthermore, a protein-rich breakfast helps you feel full and reduces the tendency to snack throughout the day.

So start every day the right way by whipping up Shakeology! Here are 3 unique and delicious recipes to keep things exciting.

Chocolate "Mocha-Crème Madness" Recipe:
	1 scoop Chocolate Shakeology ½ cup almond milk ½ cup coffee ¼ tsp. cinnamon 2 drops vanilla extract

Greenberry "Piña Banana" Recipe:
	1 scoop Greenberry Shakeology ½ banana ½ cup pineapple juice ½ cup coconut water

Tropical Strawberry "Berry Blast" Recipe:
	1 scoop Tropical Strawberry Shakeology ½ banana 1 cup berry medley 1 cup rice milk

Posted in Heather MacDonald, Shakeology^® Recipes. "Why Is Drinking Shakeology^® Daily Important?" Shakeology Blog

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What Shakeology^® Really Does for You

Many of our customers and potential customers ask us what Shakeology is actually supposed to do for them. While each person's body is unique and different, we have come up with some short summaries of effects that anyone taking Shakeology on a regular basis should experience.

• Antioxidants. Shakeology contains some of the most potent antioxidants: flavonoids and phytonutrients such as spinach, blue green algae, carrot powder, strawberry powder, and vitamins E and C. These help to prevent free radicals from oxidizing and destroying cells. The ingredients in our antioxidant blend such as pomegranate, acai berry, camu-camu, goji, and blueberry also have powerful antioxidant effects to support your immune system and help protect your body from normal inflammatory response.
• Energy. Shakeology contains a range of B vitamins and trace minerals, like zinc and magnesium, from whole food sources that regulate metabolism and increase energy. Shakeology also contains maca root, an adaptogen herb known to promote endurance and stamina. Check out our Ingredient Spotlight on maca root to learn more.
• Digestion. The Shakeology non-dairy prebiotic and probiotic blend contains fiber and different enzymes like amylase, papain, cellulose, and lactase, which all support digestion. These ingredients aid in breaking down food molecules into smaller molecules that can be properly digested, so all of the nutrients can be absorbed into your system.
• Mood. One scoop of Shakeology provides 100% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin B12. B12 is often linked with good mood maintenance; B vitamins are also essential for the production and proper functioning of neurotransmitters like dopamine, crucial to the experience of pleasure. Shakeology also contains cacao, which is very high in phenylethylamine (PEA). PEA acts as a neuromodulator to enhance one's mood.
• Detoxification. Many of the ingredients in Shakeology (spirulina, chlorella, flaxseed, barley grass, spinach) contain powerful detoxification compounds such as chlorophyll and alpha-linolenic acid. These ingredients may help rid the body of environmental toxins such as smog, heavy metals, herbicides, cleaning products, and pesticides. They also aid in liver detoxification. Shakeology also includes kamut grass, an ingredient coined "nature's most powerful detoxifier." This grass has been known to cleanse the body and detoxify the cells to restore health and vitality.
• Immunity. The antioxidants, bioflavanoids, and flavanoids in Shakeology work to support immunity. Some of these ingredients include ashwaganda, acerola cherry, rose hips, and goji berries. The goji berries in Shakeology are one of the richest sources of antioxidants; not only does goji berry promote eye, reproductive, and circulatory health, but it also supports your immune system and promotes longevity!
• Satiety/cravings. The protein, chromium, and nutrient-dense calories from superfoods in Shakeology work to help decrease your appetite. Chromium is important because it helps maintain blood-sugar levels, which reduces sugar cravings and promotes fat metabolism. Plus, protein-rich meals are a great way to keep you feeling full, longer!
• Complete nutrition: Each Shakeology ingredient plays an important role in feeding your body on a cellular level, but it is important to remember that the synergy of the 70+ ingredients working together is what truly fuels your body to keep you looking and feeling your best.

So there you have it! That's a snapshot of all the wonderful things Shakeology does for your body. We could literally write a book on these potent ingredients (oh hey, we did!), but sometimes a cheat sheet is just what the doctor ordered. If you commit some of the aspects of this article to memory, then the next time someone asks you, "What does Shakeology do for your body?" you'll be able to provide them with more specialized information than, "It's the Healthiest Meal of the Day^®! It helps you lose weight, curb cravings, lower cholesterol, and increase energy." This is all true, but at the end of the day, Shakeology is SO much more than that!

Posted in Heather MacDonald, "Shakeology^® Product News. What Shakeology^® Really Does for You" Shakeology Blog

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Elizabeth S. Lost 136 lbs. and Got Off All Her Medication with Shakeology^® . . . So We Gave Her $1,000!

What Elizabeth S. won: $1,000 just for drinking Shakeology, getting awesome results, and submitting her story to the Beachbody Challenge™. Now she has a chance to win $25,000 as a Beachbody Challenge winner at Summit 2012!

How did Shakeology support your transformation? What are the biggest benefits? I truly believe Shakeology was the cause of my transformation! The fact that it is packed with vitamins and minerals has definitely led me to the healthy state that I am in now. The biggest benefit from Shakeology is that I am medication-free and at a healthy weight! My doctor is in amazement of (as he states) my picture-perfect health!

Tell us about your life before you started the program. How did you feel about yourself and your body? My life prior to my whole-life transformation was a difficult, dark, and depressing one. There were many things going on that led to it, and during this period I had many health issues. I had high blood pressure, thyroid disorder, and pre-diabetes. In the past couple of years, I was on as many as 9 different medications for all of these health-related issues. I became a slug and did nothing but sit at home, feel sorry for myself, and pack on the pounds! I hit my peak weight in January 2010 at 278 pounds! I could not even look in the mirror and believe that the image reflecting back to me was me!

What inspired you to change your life and begin your transformation journey? My niece got into Beachbody^® big time and shared the benefits of the programs and products with our whole family. I decided that I needed to do something to get the vitamins and minerals that my body needed to survive, so I gave Shakeology a try! I was able to keep it down, gained strength to start moving, and through that I gained a clearer head to start thinking about what I needed to do. Before I knew it, I was exercising, drinking my shakes, and losing weight! I was feeling great! Then, as the weight fell off, so did the medications! My doctors and I are all in agreement that Shakeology is the leading cause of my "picture-perfect" health. At this time, I am on NO medications and my weight is hovering at 142!

Tell us about the greatest challenge you faced. How did you overcome that challenge? The biggest challenge that I encountered was actually losing the weight! I know it sounds strange, but it's true. I had been down on myself for so long that I just never thought that things would change for me. As the weight started to come off, I became more confident in myself, finally believing and knowing that this was a new path of life for me. I cannot stress enough how much my life has changed! I have no health issues and a life that is full of positive challenges and excitement!

Describe the results you achieved with your Beachbody program. What achievements are you proud of? The Shakeology Workouts (30- and 50-minute) are just incredible! I have never been someone that exercised and never had the will to do so, but now I feel the need for it daily! Of course, the first thing I want to say that I am the most proud of is the weight loss of 130+ pounds! The fact that I was a size 20/22, and now I am an 8 to 10—I know that it led to my self-confidence and the courage to take on any new challenges that come my way because I know I can do it!

Submit your Shakeology story for a chance to win up to $100,000 in the Beachbody Challenge like Elizabeth! Click here for more details.

Posted in Heather MacDonald, "Shakeology^® Inspiring Stories. Elizabeth S. Lost 136 lbs. and Got Off All Her Medication with Shakeology^® . . . So We Gave Her $1,000!" Shakeology Blog

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The 411 on Tropical Strawberry Shakeology's New Plant-Based Protein Blend

We searched all over the world to find a vegan protein source with the right taste and texture worthy of the name Shakeology^®, and we found it! The proprietary plant-based protein blend in Tropical Strawberry Shakeology is revolutionary and has a synergistic blend of non-GMO, organic proteins. These proteins come from brown rice and sacha inchi, along with chia, flax, quinoa, amaranth, and spirulina.

What makes the brown rice protein in our plant-based protein blend so special? First off, brown rice protein has an unprecedented reputation for being easily assimilated and digested in your body. This is good news if you or anyone you know has severe lactose allergies or a hard time digesting whey protein (derived from milk). The fact that Tropical Strawberry is made with easily digestible brown rice protein (plant-based) makes it a new and very attractive alternative! Another great perk is that brown rice protein contains a high amount of glutamine, an amino acid known to help balance blood sugar, curb cravings, stimulate the immune system, promote weight loss, and build muscle.

More tout-worthy details about our brown rice protein are that it's raw, sprouted, and bio-fermented.

Why is it important that our brown rice protein is raw?
Heating denatures the protein. (In other words, it diminishes the original properties.) Our brown rice is cold-processed, so the protein content and nutrients are preserved.

Why is it important that our brown rice protein is sprouted?
The sprouting process increases the nutritional value of the rice itself. Here's why: When a seed sprouts, it transitions from being dormant to active, releasing vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and essential fatty acids, making the sprouted version of a grain much more nutritious. Sprouting also starts the process of breaking down fats into fatty acids, and proteins into amino acids; this helps the nutrients to be more easily digested and absorbed into your system.

Why is it important that our brown rice protein is bio-fermented?
The bio-fermentation process further breaks down the grain, releasing enzymes and in turn making it easier for your body to absorb the amino acids and other nutrients.

And there you have it, a plant-based protein just as beneficial and potent as whey protein! To learn more interesting new facts about Tropical Strawberry Shakeology, stay tuned for the next blog post on coconut flower nectar or visit Shakeology.com.

Posted in Heather MacDonald, "Shakeology^® Product News. The 411 on Tropical Strawberry Shakeology's New Plant-Based Protein Blend" Shakeology Blog

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Nutrition Results: Plan Ahead to Get Ahead

"I don't mind doing the workouts; in fact I really enjoy them. Where I drop the ball is when it comes to what I eat."—Jimmy Hays Nelson

Does this sound familiar? Maybe you recognize it because you've said it on more than one occasion. We've all done it before. Our alarm goes off early to remind us of our new commitment to work out to lose weight or get healthier. We pry ourselves out of bed and start moving in our half-awake, groggy state. But before we know it, we are in our groove mid-workout, the hour flies by, and we've started our day in a positive way. We feel great! We stroll into work with a bit of a strut, knowing this is going to be a good day because one big to-do is already checked off for the day. Then life happens. We put out one fire after another, chasing the day, and the first thing to get compromised is our food. The very thing we need to fuel us through our crazy day-to-day. Or maybe you made it the entire day avoiding the donuts and sodas in the break room, but you get home and justify a few poor choices in the evening because you "deserve it" after the day you've had.

If any of this resembles your day-to-day, don't beat yourself up. You aren't alone! Nutrition is usually the undoing of most people chasing a specific health goal, mostly because it takes all-day effort and focus, as opposed to the ONE hour for your workout. So in this busy society where more and more of our time is in demand, how do we solve this nutrition dilemma?

I want to share a few tips that played a huge role in me becoming a master of my nutrition in the midst of losing 100 pounds.

Prep Time

Most of us have one day a week that we have some extra down time. I am not asking you to give up that down time. Just use part of it to ensure the rest of your week is successful.

Sunday is my prep day. So while I'm doing laundry, watching football, or whatever takes up my leisure time, I prep my food for the week. Take a 30-minute trip to the grocery store. Purchase all your food for the week. For me, that is a couple family packs of chicken breasts, 8 to 10 sweet potatoes, avocados, spinach, egg whites, etc. I come home, preheat the oven to 400 degrees and bake everything that needs to be cooked at once. Usually I can put it all in the oven together, set the timer for 45 to 50 minutes and forget about it while I go back to my leisure activity of choice. When everything is cooked, you can put it all in big plastic containers or portion it out in sandwich bags, and you've set yourself up for a successful grab-and-go food system for the week.

Shakeology^®

How could I have a good post about food choices, without mentioning The Healthiest Meal of the Day^®? For most people, no matter how hard you try, or how disciplined you think you are, we all have holes in our nutrition. Phytonutrients, vitamins, minerals, etc.—all the things our bodies need to function without breaking down can be challenging to get in on a daily basis. Trust me, I used to try. I had a cabinet of pills and powders that would consume my day. Most busy people just don't have the time to mess with a potential headache like that. Thank heaven for my Shakeology. It took the guesswork out of my supplementation. It's fast, easy, and effective. No time for breakfast? Did you miss lunch because of endless meetings at work? Break open a packet, shake it up, and enjoy. Now instead of making an excuse to have your worst meal of the day, you corrected that with your best meal of the day!

Just like with any change in life, the first few times you utilize these tips, it may seem a little strange or foreign. But you will be amazed; taking that extra step to plan ahead will yield immediate results, making it easier to plan ahead the second time because you want to continue seeing those results! And before you know it, you have established a new habit, a new lifestyle that doesn't even seem unusual or like extra work. It's now just part of your daily life—a healthier, more energetic, results-filled life!

Stay healthy, friends!
Jimmy Hays Nelson
Lost 100 lbs. and is an INSANITY^® cast member

Posted in Jimmy Hays Nelson, "Nutrition Results. Plan Ahead to Get Ahead." Shakeology Blog

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9 Reasons to Think Pink This
Valentine's Day

Tropical Strawberry Shakeology^®—just the sound of it makes you want to enjoy a tall glass on a sandy beach. But there's so much more to it than just an enticing name. What's in it? What's the serving size? When can I get some?

These and other questions will be poppin' up left and right when Tropical launches on February 14th. But have no fear. We put together 9 sips of brilliance you can use to become an expert.

1) Take a walk on the light side. Tropical Strawberry Shakeology is a new, light, refreshing flavor featuring strawberry, banana, pineapple, papaya, and coconut. And it's easy to customize with any of your favorite additions.

2) Savor the new flavor. In a coco-nutshell, Tropical has a taste and texture so delicious and smooth, you won't believe it's vegan!

3) No animals allowed. Tropical is a completely plant-based formula with NO animal products. This makes it very easily digested and assimilated by your body.

4) Blinding you with science. Our proprietary vegan protein blend contains all 9 essential amino acids. It also contains a protein blend featuring raw, sprouted, fermented brown rice protein, along with sacha inchi, chia, flax, quinoa, amaranth, and spirulina.

5) Superfoods to the rescue. Tropical also includes NEW superfoods, including coconut flower nectar, luo han huo, Himalayan salt, and konjac root. All of the key nutrients come from natural whole foods. There are no added vitamin or mineral isolates and no fortification.

6) Get your mac on this Valentine's Day. Maca, that is. Just like Chocolate and Greenberry, Tropical also contains maca powder (root), which carries strong libido-enhancing properties. Maca also helps increase stamina and energy levels, calms the nerves, and contributes to overall well being.

7) Try Tropical on for size. This delicious new Shakeology flavor is available in both 30-day bag and single-serve packettes. What's more, you'll also find it available in Challenge Packs by the end of this month, too!

8) Sweets for my sweet. Want a bunch of great new ways to enhance your shakes? How about a new recipe calendar with 30 fresh new recipes? Mmmm. View the recipe calendar.

9) Weight no longer. Eager to try Tropical right away? Can't say we blame you. You can switch your orders on February 14th, so delicious Tropical Strawberry Shakeology will arrive to your door in your next shipment. Call customer service on or after Valentine's Day at 1 (800) 935-1173.

Posted in Heather MacDonald , "Shakeology^® Product News: 9 Reasons to Think Pink This
Valentine's Day" Shakeology Blog

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Shakeology^® was featured in Bloomberg Businessweek! "The Adventures of Superfood Man"

Bloomberg Businessweek reporter Peter Heller travels to Malibu, CA, to get the inside scoop on exactly what Shakeology is, and to learn more about the fascinating life of Darin Olien—who he deems may be "the most aggressive hunter of superfoods on the planet."

Click here to learn more about the health-filled, beach lifestyle of Darin Olien as a pioneer of nutrition, the details of and reasons behind Shakeology's success in the shake industry, plus how superfood-testing specialists are saying Shakeology has almost every superfood known to the herbal-loving world.

Read the full article here: The Adventures of Superfood Man

Posted in Heather MacDonald , "Shakeology^® in the Press: Shakeology^® was featured in Bloomberg Businessweek! "The Adventures of Superfood Man"" Shakeology Blog

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Mary C. Lost 36 lbs. with Shakeology^® and Won $1,000 in the Beachbody Challenge™

"Going on 70 and being able to perform the Shakeology workouts is my greatest achievement, along with keeping up with my twin grandchildren and all their activities!"

What Mary C. won: Mary C. won $1,000 just for drinking Shakeology, and went from size 14 to size 6! Now she has a chance to win $25,000 as a Beachbody Challenge winner at Summit 2012!

Tell us about your life before you started the program. How did you feel about yourself and your body? As a caretaker for my aunt and then babysitting for twin grandchildren, I had very little time for myself. I allowed myself to put on more and more weight, and overall felt very tired and exhausted at the end of the day—I wasn't even thinking about the terrible foods I was eating.

What inspired you to change your life and begin your transformation journey? My son lost over 50 lbs. with P90X^® and Shakeology. My daughter-in-law also started with Slim in 6^® and Shakeology, lost weight, and really toned up. So I wanted in on that action!

Why did you choose the particular program? Shakeology is a great way to start when you are questioning your fitness capabilities. P90X looked too extreme to this grandmother, and even Slim in 6 was too much. So I found out that Shakeology included some workouts, and my thought was to clean up my nutrition and introduce workout programs that I could handle.

What in particular did you like about the program you chose? There really isn't an easier way to start losing weight and eating healthier then by using Shakeology as a meal replacement once a day. The workout programs included allowed me to start at my level, and once I completed the 30 DVD, I then moved up to the 50 DVD. I really love those programs and love Shakeology even more.

Tell us about the greatest challenge you faced. How did you overcome that challenge? I fractured my foot and had to wear a protective foot-boot, which really hampered my physical activity. It was at that time that I started Shakeology and realized that I could in fact start to lose weigh even thought my physical activity was not where I wanted it.

Describe the results you achieved with your Beachbody^® program. What achievements are you proud of? I lost over 35 lbs. with Shakeology and I love it! I'm also ready now to come off my HBP and cholesterol medication! And I'm now fitting into dress sizes that I haven't been able to since the '80s! Going on 70 and being able to perform the workouts is my greatest achievement, along with keeping up with my twin grandchildren and all their activities. I used to sit back and watch them as they rode the rides at our local amusement park. But now I run around the park with them, participating in all rides and activities!

How did Shakeology support your transformation? What are the biggest benefits? Shakeology was the key to my transformation success. Not only did it simplify my nutrition, but I really, truly looked forward to it each day. I don't have to worry about taking additional supplements, and I'm guaranteed to have more than enough energy for the day. Some would say I have too much energy!

Submit your Shakeology story for a chance to win up to $25,000 in the Beachbody Challenge like Mary! Click here for more details.

Posted in Heather MacDonald , "Inspiring Stories: Mary C. Lost 36 lbs. with Shakeology^® and Won $1,000 in the Beachbody Challenge™" Shakeology Blog

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Expert Tips and Advice: 10 Ways Water Helps You to Lose Weight

1. Water suppresses your appetite. People who drink more water feel hungry less often, as water makes a good appetite suppressant.

2. Water helps to reduce cholesterol. Water has a drastic impact on cholesterol and should help you reduce the levels in your body; it also can lead to weight loss.

3. Water helps to tone muscles. If your muscles are dehydrated, you won't see a lot of toning. Up your intake of water and you'll see a difference, fast!

4. Water is necessary for proper digestion. Your digestive system requires a certain amount of water a day to function, and if you fall short of this, it can make you feel bloated and tired. We recommend 9 glasses of water a day.

5. Water helps liver function. The liver metabolizes fat, which is very important when you are trying to lose weight. However, it requires a lot of water to do this successfully, and if your liver doesn't have enough, it will store the fat.

6. Water helps soothe digestive problems. If you are suffering from digestive troubles, try drinking a few glasses of water. This should help jump-start your system again, as a lack of water can cause the entire process to stop.

7. The right amount of water causes the body to stop retaining water. If you usually don't drink enough, your body will have retained water to make up for it. This water retention can add pounds to your weight, making you feel very bloated.

8. Water stops you confusing hunger and thirst. It can be very easy to think you are hungry when in fact you are just thirsty.

9. Water moisturizes the skin and makes it more radiant and supple. Supermodels are known to drink about 68 ounces of water per day to make sure their skin is hydrated and looks its best.

10. Water washes the toxins out of the body. Water washes out the toxins, making your body cleaner and healthier.

Experts recommend drinking 68 ounces of water a day—that's about 8 glasses of water, which you should easily be able to fit into your day. We recommend making your shake with about 2 cups of water, and you'll not only have a better chance at meeting your water requirement for the day, but it'll taste good too!

Posted in Heather MacDonald , "Expert Tips and Advice: 10 Ways Water Helps You to Lose Weight" Shakeology Blog

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INGREDIENT SPOTLIGHT: YACON ROOT

In keeping with our previous theme of "rooting" out what sets Shakeology^® apart from the competition, today's ingredient spotlight focuses on the uniquely sweet and nutritious yacon root!

The country of Peru is not only our source for the maca root found in Shakeology (see previous Ingredient Spotlight); it's also where we get another of our superfoods—yacon! In case you didn't know, Peru is more than 1,000 miles long and 500 miles across at its widest point. The country has a variety of microclimates and sudden changes in geography, hence many diverse agricultural opportunities.

WHAT IS YACON?

The yacon is a perennial plant traditionally grown in the Northern and Central Andes from Ecuador to Argentina. It is known for its crisp, sweet-tasting, tuberous roots. Its texture and flavor are very similar to jicama, except that yacon has slightly sweeter undertones, attributed to a sweet substance called inulin. Until as late as the early 2000s, yacon was hardly known outside of its limited native range, and was not available in urban markets. However, press reports of its use in Japan for its low-glycemic properties made the crop more widely known in Lima and other Peruvian cities. And the word has continued to spread; we are now seeing product offerings such as yacon syrup, juices, jams, and teas. All products are popular among diabetics and those trying to manage their weight.

Fun fact: Another name for the yacon is the "Peruvian Ground Apple."

KEY BENEFITS: WEIGHT LOSS AND DIGESTION

These edible tubers are composed primarily of water and fructooligosaccharides, an indigestible natural sweetener. Fructooligosaccharides (or FOS) taste sweet, but break down slowly, passing through the digestive tract unmetabolized, and thus have very low caloric value. As an additional nutrition bonus, these FOS have a prebiotic effect, meaning that they are used by "friendly" bacteria (probiotics) that favor colon health and digestion. Probiotics are the good, healthy bacteria strains that live in your intestines, help to digest food, and help keep you "regular." These healthy bacteria need special nutrients called prebiotics to grow and thrive. Yacon is known to contribute to better digestion, colon health, and healthy immune function. It's a powerful antioxidant, and studies show that yacon may help support ideal blood sugar levels and healthy cardiovascular function. An Argentine study following daily intake of yacon syrup by women with high blood cholesterol levels over a 120 day period showed a significant decrease in body weight, waist circumference, and body mass index among those tested. The consumption of yacon syrup was shown to increase frequency of elimination and satiety sensation.

HOW OUR YACON IS SOURCED

The pure ingredient used in Shakeology is found near Huanuco, a mountain town known for the most extraordinary yacon. Huanuco is located in an area called Canchacalla at about 8,000 feet in the Andes. The farmers we work with are some of the more progressive growers in the area, who consistently do investigation into the best varieties. They work with academic experts who regularly run "variety trials" to select the best variety with the highest content of FOS. These farmers also do a lot of investigation into the best organic practices including using microorganisms and beneficial bacteria to stimulate the plants' growth and disease resistance, so that pesticides are unnecessary. Our farmers use only the root portion of the yacon plant, and the rest of the green material is tilled back into the ground as green compost. This increases crop yields, which is also a sign of good quality.

THE BOTTOM LINE: DOLLARS AND (COMMON) SENSE

So let's break it down in terms of cost to you:

• Yacon powder (8 oz.):                $12
• Dried Yacon slices (4-oz. bag):   $9
• Yacon tea (30 servings):             $10
• Jar of yacon syrup (9 oz.):          $13

Sure, that's not a lot to spend, but consider how unlikely you are to know how that yacon was sourced or how potent it is. If you were to separately attempt to purchase Shakeology's 70+ healthy ingredients from whole food sources from around the world (including antioxidants, phytonutrients, adaptogen herbs, prebiotics, digestive enzymes, vitamins, and minerals) and match the benefits and nutritional content of Shakeology, you would easily spend over $300 every month—that's two and half times the cost of Shakeology, the Healthiest Meal of the Day^®.

There are fewer published studies on the health benefits of yacon than on maca root, due to its more recent "discovery" and commercialization. Here are a few highlights:*

• Numerous studies pinpoint yacon as a prebiotic (also known as soluble fiber) that can stimulate the growth and/or activity of the body's natural defenses in the digestive system. Read more here.
• Yacon syrup has been shown to have beneficial effects on obesity and insulin resistance in humans. Read more here.
• A study published in the European Journal of Nutrition, conducted by the Institute of Organic Chemistry, suggested that four different components of yacon each provide their own "potent antioxidant activity" and have been shown to reduce blood glucose levels in rats. Read more here.

*For general information and education purposes only.

All trademarks, products, and service names are the property of their respective owners.

Posted in Nancy Marcello , "Ingredient Spotlight: Yacon Root" Shakeology Blog

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Shakeology^® as a Post-Workout Supplement

Whether you're trotting up the stairs to your apartment after a five-mile jog or pounding out that last set of curls, there is nothing like that post-workout feeling. You've busted your tail and now it's time to relax.

Or is it? A little couch time might seem in order, but that doesn't mean the work is done. After a hard workout, your body becomes super receptive to nutrients, so proper eating in the hour after is crucial. Don't slack off now. Hit the kitchen for your Shakeology recovery shake within the first 10 minutes of wrapping up, and allow 30 to 45 minutes for it to absorb before eating anything else!

When Nietzsche said, "That which doesn't kill us makes us stronger," he could have been talking about a good workout. First of all, exercise burns through your blood sugar as well as your glycogen, your body's back-up sugar supply. Meanwhile, it drains your electrolytes and fluids and causes micro-trauma to your muscles. That last one typically happens more often with weight training, but just about any intense exercise breaks down (and subsequently builds) muscle to some degree. Just look at a swimmer's shoulders or a jogger's legs if you doubt this.

When it comes to a serious workout, one of the many reasons trainers like P90X's Tony Horton and RevAbs' Brett Hoebel recommend drinking Shakeology is because your body is in a state of depletion, so many people make the mistake of eating too many calories afterward. How many calories you should consume post-workout depends on your size and how hard you blasted it, but the general range is 100 to 250 calories post-workout. At 140 to 150 calories, Shakeology fills this requirement perfectly, and if you need more calories we recommend adding a banana or some nut butter for extra protein.

Protein is critical after a tough workout because it works to repair your muscles. This is due to the fact that protein is comprised of amino acids, which serve as building blocks for muscle. If you can get some protein in your body fast, it can jump-start the recovery process. With 16 to 18 grams of quality protein in each serving, Shakeology works great as a muscle building tool and is absorbed perfectly after a work-out because your body in its depleted state is extra receptive to the nutrients.

The next mode of action is replenishing your blood sugar. In order to do this you need carbs. There are 17 grams of carbs in each serving of Shakeology, which when taken with protein post-workout, can both replenish your body and keep you satisfied, so you don't overeat or suffer through that "I'm starving" feeling, which can lead to unhealthy meal choices.

The final two pieces of the recovery puzzle are electrolytes (specifically potassium, sodium, magnesium, and chloride) and water, all of which you lose when you sweat. The magnesium, sodium, vitamins, minerals, and enzymes in Shakeology will boost your electrolytes, and if you want to get even more, make your shake with coconut water. As for rehydrating, I hear there's a new thing out there called "water." You might want to research it. :)

Stay healthy, friends.
Heather and Denis

Posted in Heather MacDonald and Denis Faye , "Shakeology^® as a Post-Workout Supplement" Shakeology Blog

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Katie F. Lost Weight with Shakeology^® & P90X^® and Won $1,000 in September in the Beachbody Challenge™

Age: 33 Primary Program: P90X Supplement: Shakeology

Katie F.
Lost 29 lbs. and 6 inches off her waist!
"There aren't enough characters allowed to describe how much Shakeology has supported me."

Tell us about your life before you started the program. How did you feel about yourself and your body? There is only one word to describe how I felt about the way I looked and the lack of energy I had: sad. My life before P90X was a bit crazy and hectic. I was running a day care in my home and had a very young child. I would head to McDonald's^® or Taco Bell^® as often as I could while I was out and on the run (it was just the easy thing to do), and I would get the largest possible mocha from Starbucks^® whenever I had the chance. The word "exercise" had never been in my vocabulary. I had asthma as a child, so I wasn't really fond of exercise back then and I was happy with the way I looked. Then I got pregnant with twins. I gained 70 pounds with my son and "most" of it came off. However, I gained over 90 pounds with my twins, and that weight DIDN'T come off. They were 9 months old, and I still looked (and felt) like I was pregnant with them. I was tired all the time and had no energy. I knew that I needed to add a few new words to my vocabulary: "exercise" and "eat right."

What inspired you to change your life and begin your transformation journey? The word "sad" stayed with me every time I looked in the mirror. I couldn't believe just how far I had let myself go. I knew I needed to make a change, and I knew that change had to be BIG. My girls were at a point where they were just starting to be a bit more mobile, and my son was two (enough said)! I needed the energy to keep up with them every day. I also specifically remember how my brother told me years before (as I was drinking my very large mocha from Starbucks) that it would "catch up with me." Well, it (and all the "easy" trips to McDonald's and Taco Bell) certainly did. I knew they weren't healthy for me. I knew I was spending a ton of money each year, but again, it was "easy." But it did catch up with me, and I needed a change. I needed to drop some weight and change my eating habits for good.

Describe the results you achieved with your Beachbody^® program. What achievements are you proud of? I am still in shock when I look back at my "before" pictures . . . Was that really me? I am ecstatic at what P90X has done for me. I can fit in to a size 8 pant again. (I haven't been able to say that for a long time.) The energy I have each day is just amazing. I don't feel "tired" after running after the kids. I lost just under 30 pounds, completely changed my eating habits, and will NEVER go back. As far as achievements are concerned, I will never forget the day when I was able to complete the Dreya Roll. That one move in the program had been haunting me for a while. I didn't have the strength to do it. I kept Pressing Play and kept trying until one day I could do it! To be able to say that I completed all 90 days of P90X is a great feeling to have. The fact that it has completely changed my life is immeasurable.

How did Shakeology support your transformation? What are the biggest benefits? There are not enough characters allowed to describe how much Shakeology has supported me. :) Remember my "McDonalds, Taco Bell, Starbucks" comments earlier? Yeah, those didn't even enter my mind after the first week of being on Shakeology. I remember my Coach introducing it to me; she said it was a meal replacement shake that helped get rid of cravings, lose weight, and gain energy. I was all for that, and I needed to be sure to get all the proper nutrition while completing P90X. The first thing I remember when I first tried it was the taste. I had tried meal replacement shakes before and did not like the taste of them at all. I remember them having a very bad aftertaste as well. The fact that I could have a chocolate shake with peanut butter every day—and it was GOOD for me—was awesome. I definitely felt a difference in my energy level my first week, and I was definitely not having any cravings for anymore of the "bad" stuff too. Shakeology keeps me healthy and energized.

Sumbit your Shakeology story for a chance to win up to $25,000 in the Beachbody Challenge like Katie! Click here for more details.

All trademarks, products, and service names are the property of their respective owners.

Posted in Heather MacDonald , "Katie F. Lost Weight with Shakeology" Shakeology Blog

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5 Ways to Fight Fattening Holiday Habits

Ah, the holidays. Or as we those of us who are too fond of cookies and traditional big meals say, AHHHHHH! The holidays!

No one decides to gain 5 to 15 pounds between November and January. But when family recipes, busy schedules, and friendly get-togethers put fat-filled temptations in your face at every turn, who can resist?

You can, with satisfying, delicious Shakeology^®! It's your super power, giving you the strength to pass up the fluffiest mashed potatoes and the richest pumpkin pie. And that's not the only way Shakeology makes your holidays happier. Here are 5 ways the Healthiest Meal of the Day^® helps you stay on track during the most wonderful time of the year:

1. Shakeology helps curb cravings so you won't overeat. Want to ease up on the eggnog and back off the brownies? Drink Shakeology before a holiday event. The whey protein isolate in each creamy glass keeps your blood sugar steady and crushes junk food cravings. That buffet table can't hurt you now—go ahead and stroll past it. You'll find that resisting temptation will be easier and feels way more awesome than any candied yam tastes.
2. Shakeology boosts your energy just when you need it. There are never enough hours in the day, but somehow time seems even scarcer in November and December. If you're like me, you've got to run around from sunup to bedtime to get everything done. Thankfully, the vitamins, minerals, and protein in Shakeology give you the stamina to keep going. Digestive enzymes in every serving speed up the body's absorption of nutrients too, so you can feel the benefits faster. And use any extra energy to prepare a healthy meal instead of grabbing the nearest holiday cheese tray.
3. Guard against illness. There's something magical in the air—something viral too: cold and flu germs making the rounds in the shopping malls and holiday parties. Happily, Shakeology provides a powerful cocktail of natural ingredients to help support immune system function: super-greens, super-fruits, adaptagen herbs, pre- and probiotics, and digestive enzymes. I'm not saying Shakeology will make you completely impervious to the flu bug, but it could support your immune system when you share hugs with sniffly loved ones. Come to think of it, maybe THEY could use some Shakeology.
4. Take the stress out of the season. Let's face it: the most wonderful time of the year comes with expectations that can cause anxiety. Shakeology's got your antidote, with protein and amino acids to promote alertness, and adaptogen herbs that can reduce feelings of stress and fatigue. So relax with a glass of Shakeology. It's a healthier way to handle stress than over-indulging in holiday spirits and/or pecan pie.
5. Replace a fattening holiday tradition with a healthy one. Instead of piling on the calories with Christmas pudding, try Chocolate Shakelogy Pudding:

   
   Ingredients:
   1 scoop Chocolate Shakeology, 1 ripe avocado, 1 large banana, 1 cup almond milk, 1 tsp. lemon

   Preparation:
   Mix all ingredients in blender until smooth. Pour into 4 small individual dishes. Refrigerate for an hour. If the pudding ends up too thick, simply add a bit more almond milk. Serves 1. Optional: Garnish with some chopped pecans, chia seeds or walnuts.

   Treat yourself right with this lean alternative to traditional eggnog, Berry Yule Log:

   Ingredients:
   1/2 tsp. cinnamon
   1/2 tsp. almond extract
   1/2 cup pitted black cherries
   1 cup vanilla almond milk
   1 scoop Greenberry Shakeology

   Preparation:
   Mix together in blender until smooth, serve chilled.

"This is the first year I haven't completely caved when it comes to all of the holiday treats . . . Thanks, Shakeology!"—Valynne B., Portland, OR

"Shakeology is awesome! I use it for all my desserts, and I can just walk away from all the goodies around the holidays."—Scott R., Youngstown, OH

"Drinking Shakeology pre-Christmas is helping keep all the goodies at bay :) Thanks for an amazing, craving-stifling product!"—Melanie W.

For a whole month of delicious Shakeology Holiday-themed recipes, click here.

Starting November 29th, you can win FREE Shakeology and fitness programs in the Shakeology Holiday Dessert Recipe Contest. Visit the Shakeology Facebook^® page to enter!

All trademarks, products, and service names are the property of their respective owners.

Posted in Nancy Marcello , "Fight Fattening Holiday Habits" Shakeology Blog

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INGREDIENT SPOTLIGHT: MACA ROOT

In this newly-launched blog, we will be featuring regular, detailed spotlights on the ingredients that qualify Shakeology^® as the Healthiest Meal of the Day^®. By now, hopefully you are "in the know" about this incredible, nutrient-dense shake comprised of some of the most amazing, healthy, and potent superfoods on the planet. But which one led Shakeology co-creator Darin Olien and his team to altitudes of 13,000 feet in the Andes region of Junin, Peru, in search of the only crop that can grow and flourish up there? Well, in our first "Ingredient Spotlight," we'll be getting to the "root" of that issue . . . maca root, that is!

Maca has been used in indigenous South American societies as a source of nourishment and healing for thousands of years. Its other known names include: Lepidium meyenii, maca-maca, maino, ayak chichira, and ayak willku. A distant relative of radishes and turnips, maca grows in a variety of colors ranging from purple to golden. For this crop, there is only one season or yield per year. Each variety offers its own strengths: cream-colored means sweeter, while darker variations generally provide a better boost of energy. Maca has a strong, pungent aroma and is traditionally grown at altitudes of approximately 8,000 to 14,500 feet. For Shakeology, we use a blend of these roots, grown and sourced by local Andean farmers in a sustainable manner, which helps not only the land to thrive but the farmers, their families, and the communities in the process!

(Fun fact: The Spaniards valued maca so much, they made it a form of currency. So, when Peru was a Spanish colony, you could pay your taxes with it!)

BENEFITS & SCIENCE

Maca is widely known to promote endurance, strength, stamina, and potency. In fact, ancient Peruvian women would give maca to their men before they went off to battle. It contains high amounts of protein and has been known to energize the central nervous system. For centuries, maca root has been used to combat stress and fatigue, increase stamina, and yes, even boost libido! Maca is a nutrient-dense whole food packed with vitamins, plant sterols, dietary fiber, essential fatty acids, minerals (including calcium, magnesium, and iron), as well as 19 of the 22 essential amino acids. An adaptogen herb, it also may help support a healthy immune system. (Studies have identified four alkaloids present in maca known to nourish the endocrine system.) Ah . . . and let's not forget the extra-special benefit that is attributed to maca; it's an aphrodisiac! The root is sometimes referred to as "Nature's Viagra^®." Lest you doubt the credibility of the aphrodisiac claim, it is in fact rooted in science. Maca root naturally contains high amounts of p-methoxybenzyl isothiacyanate, which studies show does have a positive effect on the libido. But hey, we're just citing the known science . . . You be the judge!

HOW OUR MACA IS "PROCESSED"

We're very proud to say there is very little "processing" at all. Because maca grows best at high altitudes, it's easy for it to be organic. There are few pests that naturally occur at such high altitudes. Once harvested by the local farmers, the maca roots are dried, pulverized by hand into a powder, and go into the final product just like that. There are very few steps from field to finished product, and that's the way we like it. This ensures the natural nutrient profiles stay in place, keeping it as potent as it can be. Whatever it takes for Shakeology, Darin and team will climb the highest mountain to ensure that you get the best quality ingredients available.

THE BOTTOM LINE: DOLLARS AND (COMMON) SENSE

So let's break it down in terms of cost to you. A bag of maca powder at a nutrition store alone would cost you between $15 and $30. And it's highly unlikely you'll be privy to the knowledge of how that bag of maca was sourced, at what altitude it was grown, or how potent it is. If you were to separately attempt to purchase Shakeology's 70+ healthy ingredients from whole food sources from around the world (including anti-oxidants, phytonutrients, adaptogen herbs, prebiotics, digestive enzymes, vitamins, and minerals) and match the benefits and nutritional content of Shakeology, you would easily spend over $300 every month—that's two and half times the cost of Shakeology!

To see photos and learn more about how the maca for Shakeology is sourced, check out Shakeology: Book Two, now available to download at Shakeology.com.

There are at least 67 published studies on maca root that have been conducted over the past 12 years, ranging from effects on mice to randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical studies on humans. Here are a few highlights:

• A review of major studies by Gonzalez at the Universidad Peruana in Lima, Peru, cites: "Evidence from experimental studies indicates effects of maca on nutrition, fertility, memory, and mood. Randomized clinical trials have shown that maca has favorable effects on energy and mood, may decrease anxiety and improve sexual desire. Maca has also been shown to improve sperm production, sperm motility, and semen volume." Read more here.
• You can also follow the links below to read more results of published double-blind studies on maca's effect on improving sexual function and menopausal symptoms:

  http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20691074

  http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21840656

"Maca . . . Pure energy source. Grown in nature and delivered in Shakeology."—Darin Olien

All trademarks, products, and service names are the property of their respective owners.

Posted in Nancy Marcello , "Ingredient Spotlight: Maca Root" Shakeology Blog

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WELCOME!

Ready, set start living better with the Shakeology Blog! This will be your one-stop-shop for all Shakeology news, recipes, inspiring stories, exotic ingredient findings, insider looks into international Shakeology adventures and so much more!

Here at Beachbody we are committed to living healthy, balanced lifestyles and Shakeology is a big part of our success. In fact, we love Shakeology so much that on a daily average our headquarters goes through 12 bags - That's a lot of shakin'!

The great part about having a big group of people living and breathing the Shakeology lifestyle is learning about the unique ways in which each and every person uses Shakeology and how it benefits them individually. After countless stories like "Shakeology helped me get my fastest marathon time ever this weekend" or "I drank 4 cups of coffee a day and Shakeology helped me stop drinking it entirely" and "Do you know about PB2? There's a cheaper version called peanut flour…tastes the same!" we figured we were on to something. These shake-junkies have some serious insider knowledge and somebody's got to share it! And hence, the 'Shakeology Blog' was born.

With a product like this it's so exciting because as a 2 year old going on 3, Shakeology is still coming into its own and we are learning all the benefits and unique things you can do with Shakeology…and that Shakeology can do for you! This blog will be a venue to share the abundance of findings we already know to be true, share brand new tips, as well as educate you on exactly what this miracle shake does for your body and how.

From the foodies at Beachbody telling you the perfect fruit to add to your shake at the peak of the season, to a new recipe like 'Chocolate Shakeology Figgy Pudding' that you swear can't be so good and still be healthy for you, this blog will be all about fun and getting to know the shake we all know and love better! So cheers to good health and may the shake adventure begin!

Posted in Heather MacDonald, "Welcome" Shakeology Blog

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