What is Relora?

[Sections taken from Donna Krech's website]

• Relora is nothing more than the magnolia herb which is a very, very common herb.
• Magnolia root was used to create a calming effect by lowering cortisol levels
• It’s been referred to as the “natural Prozac”
• It contains nothing addictive and has no side effects whatsoever, you just feel good!

Read the whole conversation here!

Fast Food Nation: Which Do You Choose?

Imagine you're running late and haven't had dinner yet. You think grabbing a protein-packed meal from one of these fast-food chains won't ruin your meal plan. So, which meal would you choose to stay on track?! (P.S. Continue scrolling and we'll reveal the calorie counts to see who gets it right!)

The correct answer is NONE OF THE ABOVE! However, in a pinch there are some things you can do to minimize the calorie overload. Ask them to cut your sandwich in half and take one half "to-go" so you're not encouraged to eat the whole thing in one sitting. Refrain from adding the "extras" like cheese, sour cream, and guacamole. They quickly add up calorie counts! Some fast-food locations also offer sandwiches to come in lettuce wraps, and burritos can come in a bowl, as a low-carb alternative.

Superbowl Weekend Workout

Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken

Thanks to Kristen R. for sharing this recipe with us! 

Slow Booker Balsamic Chicken

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

4 minced garlic cloves

1 pound baby carrots

8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 cup balsamic vinegar

1 sliced onion

1 pound green beans

Parsley for garnish

Preparation

1. Pour olive oil and garlic in the bottom of a 6-qt slow cooker. Line the bottom with baby carrots, then place the chicken thighs over the carrots. 

2. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, basil, and vinegar. Top with sliced onion.

3. Cover and cook on low heat for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Add green beans during the last 30 minutes of cooking time. 

4. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Why Drink Protein Shakes?

Most know the benefits of eating protein for a well balanced diet. However, there are added benefits to incorporating protein into a post-workout snack. BodyBuilding.com and Livestrong.com shared some interested tips and facts on these benefits. 

--> Because solid food takes more time to digest, break down, and send protein to the muscles, it can be best to take a protein share immediately following a workout, since protein shakes only take about 30 minutes to reach the muscles after ingestion.

--> Protein generates the biochemical substances needed for cardiovascular function and muscle contraction, growth, and healing.

--> Protein powder is an isolated nutrient source, so it provides a lot of nutrient for relatively few calories.

--> The International Society of Sports Nutrition published an article stating that having protein shortly after a workout is associated with fewer medical visits, decreased muscular soreness and better immune response to infections.

Try our Proti-15 protein powder packets. They are great mixed with smoothies, plain yogurt, juice and more. Try some today and find your favorite recipe!

Christmas Gifts for Fitness Friends

Here's where to buy:

Festive Holiday Snacks

You all know how much we LOVE healthy snacks for the holidays. Whether it's for the kids, a work party, or a friend's house, try some of the cute and easy swaps. Ditch the brownies and try chocolate dipped apples and ditch the chips for veggies!