Food Addictions, pt. 2: The Sugar Solution

“Eat less sugar you are sweet enough already.”

Last week we discussed food addictions. One of the biggest contributors to the global issue of overweight and obesity is excess sugar consumption. The problem is two-fold, sugar is added to many foods and sugar is highly addictive.

Added sugar is the single worst ingredient in the modern diet. It provides calories with no added nutrients and in the long run, can damage your metabolism. Eating too much sugar is linked to weight gain and various diseases like obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, and increased risk of cancer to name a few. According to the American Dietetic and Diabetic Association, increased sugar consumption is the leading cause of degenerative diseases.

Marketing campaigns and advertisements often mislead us into thinking we are making a healthy choice when this is not the case. We have all seen the commercials with Michael Phelps and contestants on The Biggest Loser eating Subway sandwiches while on their journey to improved health.  Consider this, recently Ireland's Supreme Court ruled that bread sold by the fast-food chain Subway contains so much sugar that it cannot be legally defined as bread and should be classified as a confectionary. To be classified as bread sugar should not exceed 2% of the weight of flour included in the dough. Subway’s bread contains five times as much sugar. As the supreme court put it: “In this case, there is no dispute that the bread supplied by Subway in its heated sandwiches has a sugar content of 10% of the weight of the flour included in the dough.”

Hidden Sugar

There are over 600,000 food items sold in the U.S and over 80% of these have added sugar. If you want a self care awakening look at the nutrition facts label on the food in your cupboards, refrigerator, and freezer. It will list sugar content expressed in grams per serving. Let us use a few examples, one soda can have as much as 45 grams of sugar per 12 ounces serving, which is equivalent to nearly 12 teaspoons of sugar. Popular breakfast cereals are spiked with sugar, some being as much as 55% sugar. Some surprising foods with more sugar than a Twinkie would include yogurt, tomato sauce, granola bars, fat-free salad dressings, muffins, and many canned fruits, typically containing 30 to 40 grams of sugar per serving. Even frozen green beans may have added sugar. You do not always see the word "sugar" on a food label. Marketers use other names, such as:

• Agave nectar

• Brown rice syrup

• High-fructose corn syrup

• Dextrose

• Evaporated cane juice

• Glucose

• Lactose

• Malt syrup

• Molasses

• Sucrose

Watch out for items that list any form of sugar in the first few ingredients or have more than 4 total grams of sugar per serving.

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Marketing campaigns and advertisements often mislead us into thinking we are making a healthy choice when this is not the case.

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Break the Sugar Addiction:

Most of us overindulge at times. But the more sugar we consume, the more sugar we want. However, the good news is that people can break the sugar addiction in 10 days. To break the sugar addiction, we need to monitor our daily consumption and keep it within a healthy level.

Monitor Sugar Consumption

To monitor sugar consumption, it is helpful to understand that 4 grams of sugar are equivalent to one teaspoon. It is recommended that a healthy daily consumption of sugar should not exceed 24 grams or six teaspoons for women and 36 grams or nine teaspoons for men, according to the American Heart Association.

Read food labels

The first step we need to take is to read food labels to keep your daily consumption at a healthy level. Read labels and journal your daily added sugar consumption. Heather has created a simple Weekly Self Care Journal to help track this and other self-care activities.

Crowding Out

Crowding is a method we have recently implemented in our diets. “Crowding Out” or “crowding” is a simple and positive approach that helps you fill up on healthy food. Try buying healthy foods that you actually like, this is important. There is no nutritional value to that shriveled fruit or veggie decomposing in your refrigerator. Get things that you like to eat and you will eat.

Let protein help

Kenzen Vital Balance

Eating protein is an easy way to curb sugar cravings. High-protein foods digest slowly, keeping you feeling full longer. Protein doesn't make your blood sugar spike the way refined carbs and sugars do. Protein shakes are ideal for this and a great way to start your day.

We choose Nikken’s Kenzen Vital Balance protein shake which contains organic moringa and naturally sweet monk fruit in addition to organic pea protein and organic vegetables. It is designed to help burn fat and boost metabolism as well as promote healthy brain function and the elimination of toxins in the body. With pre- and probiotics to assist in digestive and immune system activity, Kenzen Vital Balance is food for action and food for thought, perfect for all ages and a great way to not only nourish your body but also break the sugar addiction.

Kenzen Vital Balance Label



In addition, staying well hydrated and getting a good night’s sleep will help with cravings and assist in breaking the sugar addiction. Be Healthy by Choice.

Nutrition Matters

“Every time you eat it is an opportunity to nourish yourself.”

National Nutrition Month

Spring has Sprung, at least here in Northern California, mid 70’s all week. Blossoms in bloom and pretty much the time for spring cleaning, fresh air and of course the annual yard and garage clean up. Thank goodness for the longer days, we might even get some golf in.

The first day of spring in North America is March 20th. Spring is the time of the year for renewal.

March is also National Nutrition Month. This is an annual nutrition education and information campaign created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The campaign, celebrated each year during the month of March, focuses on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits.

One of the main principles and advantages of a Nikken Wellness Home is that it makes healthy choices easy on a day to day basis, so we can all Be Healthy by Choice.

Making healthy food choices is a challenge for many of us. Think about it, one of the most important decisions we make every day is what we eat and drink. It is everyone’s Choice to eat Healthy or not. We have previously discussed the importance of limiting sugar consumption and the Wellness Home products that help us accomplish that goal. Heather and I try to include as much whole foods, while eliminating processed foods in our Wellness Home. Most of our fresh fruits and veggies come from our local farmers market and we do enjoy our home-grown tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, green beans and indoor herb garden.

Whole food nutrition is the basis of our Nikken Active Wellness product line and much of our nutritional support in our Wellness Home is provided by Nikken.  Nikken Wellness Organic-Based Nutrition is designed to bring the daily diet closer to nature. Each ingredient is carefully selected and where possible the organic content is maximized. One way that we help ourselves and our family to make healthier food choices is by incorporating the Nikken Active Wellness nutritional products into our everyday lives. Heather is very creative and has been using many of our Nikken nutritional products in recipes for healthier choices.

Essential nutrients are compounds that the body can’t make or can’t make in enough quantity. According to the World Health Organization, these nutrients must come from food, and they’re vital for disease prevention, growth, and good health. We have all been taught that we all need daily servings of protein, vegetables and fruits to supply the vital nutritional components.

The three staple nutritional products that we rely on daily to accomplish this is what we call our Core Nutritional Pack.  These three products ensure that we are getting the three essential components of healthy nutrition.

Kenzen Vital Balance® (our protein)

Kenzen Vital Balance

We all start our day with this organic and delicious protein shake. It really starts the day off right, with energy and alertness. Many people have substituted KVB for coffee in the morning to get going with a healthier choice.

 Kenzen Vital Balance® contains organic moringa and naturally sweet monk fruit in addition to organic pea protein and organic vegetables. It is designed to help burn fat and boost metabolism as well as promote healthy brain function and the elimination of toxins in the body. With pre- and probiotics to assist in digestive and immune system activity, the Kenzen Vital Balance formula is food for action and food for thought and is suitable for people of all ages.

Jade GreenZymes® (our veggies)

Kenzen Jade Greenzymes

Called "nature's perfect food," barley grass is said to have more nutrition than an equal serving of any other vegetable. The barley grass in organic Jade GreenZymes® is beneficial in helping balance pH, supporting a strong immune system, and assisting in maintaining blood glucose levels that are already in the normal range.

Made with organic barley grass and our Proprietary Blend of organic acacia and organic pearl barley seed extract powder. It is Kosher and vegan certified, USDA Organic, certified by QAI and Gluten-free.

We have two servings of Jade Greenzymes daily. This product also comes in a capsule form, but I personally love the fresh green taste in a glass of Nikken PiMag Water.

Kenzen Super Ciaga® (our fruits)

Kenzen Super Ciaga

Super Ciaga is an organic mixed superfruit juice concentrate made exclusively with organic fruit content. This advanced formula is made with a select group of superfruits chosen for their nutrient and antioxidant characteristics. Highly concentrated, it has an exceptional ORAC value. Certified-organic, Super Ciaga supports individuals who want to feel more energized as well as those who need assistance with poor eating habits. A great replacement for sodas, simply mix an ounce of Super Ciaga to a glass of PiMag® water or seltzer for a naturally sweet and healthy beverage! One of our favorite beverages.

Healthy Water

We would add to the list drinking plenty of water, dehydration is a major problem and a focal point of Self Care. Water is not just a beverage choice, it is our most essential nutrient. Drink half your body weight in ounces of water daily, get your protein, vegetable and fruit servings in a convenient, effective and cost-efficient way with the Wellness Home Nutrition Pack and Be Healthy by Choice.

*Note Special offer on Chocolate Kenzen Vital Balance®

From now through March 31,2019, take advantage of our special on chocolate Kenzen Vital Balance® at 33% discount—Get 3 containers for the price of 2! Chocolate KVB is formulated and manufactured in the USA.

Be Healthy by Choice, not by Chance

The ABC's of Self Care: N = Nutrition

N = Nutrition and the Nikken Wellness Home

This week we have reached the letter N in our series on the ABC’s of Self Care. So, we thought that we would talk about Nutrition. Let’s discuss how the Wellness Home provides choices for healthy nutrition.

One of the main principles and advantages of a Nikken Wellness Home is that it makes healthy choices easy on a day to day basis, so we can all Be Healthy by Choice. If you breath, sleep, drink, bathe and eat the Wellness Home and its products and technologies will benefit your health. Get a great night’s sleep on the sleep system, stay hydrated with healthy water, bathe in chemical free water, breath healthy air, use natural products increase energy and performance.

Making healthy food choices is a challenge for many of us. Think about it, one of the most important decisions we make every day is what we eat and drink. It is everyone’s Choice to eat Healthy or not. We have previously discussed the importance of limiting sugar consumption and the Wellness Home products that help us accomplish that goal. Heather and I try to include as much whole foods, while eliminating processed foods in our Wellness Home. Most of our fresh fruits and veggies come from our local farmers market and we do enjoy our home-grown tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, green beans and indoor herb garden. Harvesting will commence shortly, mmm.

One way that we help ourselves and our family to make healthier food choices is by incorporating the Nikken Wellness nutritional products into our every day lives. Heather is very creative and has been using many of our Nikken nutritional products in recipes for healthier choices. To that end here our some of our favorite recipes.

I’ll start with one of my favorite summer beverages.

We call it G$ (Gee Money) Ice Tea.

It is like an Arnold Palmer (ice tea and lemonade) except I use unsweetened sun tea that I make in a glass bottle and add one ounce of Kenzen Super Ciaga® to a large glass of sun tea. Super Ciaga® is an organic mixed superfruit juice concentrate made exclusively with organic fruit content. This advanced formula is made with a select group of superfruits chosen for their nutrient and antioxidant characteristics. Highly concentrated, it has an exceptional ORAC value. This is a refreshing beverage and provides great anti-oxidant health benefits.

G$ Ice Tea

Here are a few of Heather’s recipes for healthy drinks and snacks.

Let's start with another delicious beverage that is going to help you avoid the coffee shop line and the added sugars but will give you a natural, extra kick to avoid that 3pm slump. 

The Matcha Green Tea 10-4 Frappuccino

Kenzen Ten4 (10-4) is made with USDA certified organic ingredients, contains no sugar and is only 8 calories per serving. Matcha green tea is known as “nature’s own energy drink” while New Zealand kiwi is the most nutrient-dense of the superfruits. Combined with brown rice solids and Stevia leaf extract Kenzen Ten4 Helps burn calories, boost metabolism and support mental alertness.

Combine ice and your favorite milk (dairy, almond, coconut, soy) with 1 packet of Kenzen Ten4 in a blender and blend until ice is gone and the milk is frothy. Perfect for relaxing on your back deck or running errands. Ahhhh. 

Non-GMO, gluten-free and vegan.

Now a quick delicious, nutritious snack.

Balance Balls

Kenzen Vital Balance is a crucial component of the Nikken Wellness Home. Our protein shake contains organic moringa and naturally sweet monk fruit in addition to organic pea protein and organic vegetables. It is designed to help burn fat and boost metabolism as well as promote healthy brain function and the elimination of toxins in the body. With pre- and probiotics to assist in digestive and immune system activity, the Kenzen Vital Balance formula is food for action and food for thought—for people of all ages. 
 

• 2 scoops of Kenzen Vital Balance
• 1 cup of your favorite nut butter
• 1/2 cup of rolled oats
• 1/4 cup of honey
• 1 Tbsp chia seeds
• 1/2 cup of Water
• Dried Cherries

Combine ingredients in a large mixing bowl adding enough water until ingredients mix smoothly but are not wet.  Shape the mixture into bite sized balls and place on a plate. Refrigerate until firm. Then enjoy!

Certified Kosher, Non- GMO, Vegan, Low in fat, no added salt, sugar, artificial colorings, artificial flavors or preservatives.

 

The Wellness Home provides easy choices to be Healthy by Choice. Heather and I have discussed a new section for the Impetus the “Wellness Home Cook Book”. We would be happy to feature any of our readers recipes for healthy eating if you would like to submit them to us.

Next week we will talk about the letter O, any guess as to what the topic might be?

Be Healthy by Choice, not by Chance and let’s make every home a Wellness Home.

ABC’s of Self Care K & L

““Our bodies are our gardens - our wills are our gardeners. ”

— W. Shakespear

 

The ABC’s of Self Care K & L

In our continuing series the ABC’s of Self Care, this week we are concerned with the letters K and L.

K is a very important letter for Nikken and the Wellness Home, so let’s let the letter K represent a few terms that we frequently use in describing our products, business and philosophy, Kenko, Kaizen and Kenzen.

Nikken originated in Japan over 43 years ago. Fittingly, many of our products use the word Kenko in their description as kenko is the Japanese word for health. Meaning a healthy product or choice and very appropriate to our mission of the Self Care Awakening to empower anyone to be Healthy by Choice. It is used in our sleep system products, magnetic products and support wraps. A quick stroll through our Wellness Home will reveal many of these products that enable us to make healthy choices daily.  

Kaizen means improvement. The Japanese word kaizen simply means "change for better", with inherent meaning of either "continuous" or "philosophy". The word "kaizen" in English is typically applied to measures for implementing continuous improvement, especially those with a "Japanese philosophy".

Kaizen is also defined as a “continuous improvement through positive change.” This term in the context of our health can be interpreted to mean a progressive improvement in our state of health. Our bodies are amazing, and we are continually replacing old cells with new cells. The Wellness Home is designed to give our bodies the tools it needs to be healthy. The Wellness Home itself is always under remodeling. New products, technologies and natural solutions for Being Healthy by Choice are continually being added or upgraded for continuous improvement through positive change, Kaizen.

Since 1975, Nikken’s philosophy has been and still is, to be truly healthy one must live a life in balance based on Five Pillars of Health, Healthy Body, Healthy Mind, Healthy Family, Healthy Society and Healthy Finances. Our business is about sharing the benefits of a Wellness Home and our motto of “Every home a Wellness Home” exemplifies the meaning of continuous improvement in all areas of the Five Pillars of Health. 

Kenzen is another Japanese word that describes health, soundness, or wholesome. Many of Nikken’s nutritional supplements in the Wellness Home are described as kenzen, a healthy choice. A good example is Kenzen® Lactoferrin 2.0™.

So, for the letter L, let’s talk about Lactoferrin.

L- Lactoferrin is a protein present in milk and other bodily secretions whose main biological function is to bind and transport iron. Iron is essential for overall health and is considered the number one micronutrient deficiency by the World Health Organization. It’s also one of the most problematic to supplement because in many instances, iron can irritate the intestines. Iron deficiency can result in anemia, fatigue and poor circulation, as well as many other physical discomforts. Thirty-nine (39%) of consumers are adding iron supplements to their daily diets.

The Wellness Home solution is Kenzen® Lactoferrin 2.0™. Lactose-free, gluten-free and GMO-free, our advanced lactoferrin formula provides a delivery system to support better utilization and balance of iron in the body. * Lactoferrin 2.0 is naturally iron-binding, which studies have shown to have a positive effect on iron absorption, blood iron levels and digestive issues. *

Lactoferrin 2.0 also supports gastro-intestinal health. Lactoferrin has a unique affinity to iron, allowing it to bind to the nutrient. Interestingly, numerous strains of pathogens need an iron-rich environment to reproduce. Lactoferrin limits the availability of iron to bacteria in the intestines, allowing only beneficial bacteria to thrive.  Lactoferrin is present in other bodily fluids, including tears, nasal secretions, saliva, bronchial mucus, gastrointestinal juices, vaginal mucus, and semen. At first glance, these secretions may seem unrelated, but they share one important similarity, they are consistently exposed to potentially harmful microbes.

Nikken’s Lactoferrin 2.0 formulation also contains organic Inulin, organic Ginger, organic Turmeric and organic Rhodiola, a combination that works together with Lactoferrin to produce antioxidant effects and anti-inflammatory properties that support overall health. *

Kenzen® Lactoferrin 2.0™ is a gentle way for more than 35% of woman looking for alternative sources to boost their iron, whether to improve their overall health or to supplement for specific health needs like menopause, pregnancy or menstruation. For the 56% of male and female athletes with iron deficiencies, Lactoferrin 2.0 is an excellent iron-balancing solution for increasing endurance and accelerating post-exercise muscle recovery.

We hope you are enjoying the ABC’s of Self Care and the Wellness Home series. Who can guess what the letters M and N will represent next week?

Until then, Be Healthy by Choice, not by Chance.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Good Nutrition the Essentials

Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food

Hippocrates

Wellness Home and Good Nutrition

A major component of the Wellness Home is healthy nutrition. Eating a balanced diet is vital for good health and wellbeing. Food provides our bodies with the energy, protein, essential fats, vitamins and minerals to live, grow and function properly. We need a wide variety of different foods to provide the right amounts of nutrients for good health.

There are six basic nutrients required for good health. 

These include:

Carbohydrates-Carbohydrates are grouped into two categories: simple and complex. Carbohydrates are the main energy source for the brain. Without carbohydrates, the body could not function properly. Sources include fruits, breads and grains and starchy vegetables.

Protein-which is broken down into amino acids by the digestive system. Protein is the major structural component of cells and is responsible for the building and repair of body tissues. Lean protein sources such as low-fat meat, dairy, beans or eggs. There are many other vegetable sources of protein, if that is your personal choice.

Fat-The fat in food includes a mixture of saturated and unsaturated fats.  Fat is an energy source that when consumed, increases the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins including vitamins A, D, E and K. Choose healthy options such as omega-3-rich foods like fish, walnuts and vegetable-based oils. Omega-3s help with development and growth. Limit intake of saturated fats such as high-fat meats and full-fat dairy. Other smart choices include nuts, seeds and avocado.

Vitamins- both water and fat-soluble. There may be slight differences in the amounts of specific vitamins for men versus women, but in general, the essential vitamins that your body needs are:

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin D
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin K
• B vitamins

The best way to get these vitamins is to eat a healthy and balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables. A multivitamin may also be useful to help fill in the gaps if you have a restrictive diet.

Minerals- These essential nutrients, those that your body needs but cannot produce, include the inorganic substances found in foods such as: calcium, potassium, sodium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, chloride and Trace Minerals.

Water- said to be our most essential nutrient, read more in Down the Hatch. Water helps to maintain homeostasis in the body and transports nutrients to cells. Water also assists in removing waste products from the body. We recommend drinking half your body weight in ounces per day.

Whenever possible choose fresh organic produce. We strive to eat as natural as possible and avoid processed foods. Many processed foods, including canned and frozen vegetables contain added sugar. In our Wellness Home we make a conscious effort to keep our sugar consumption at a healthy level, 36 grams or 9 teaspoons a day for me and 25 grams or 6 teaspoons a day for the ladies in the house.

Unfortunately, our busy fast-paced lives often impede with our choices for healthy eating.  I’m sure we have all experienced the trials and tribulations in shopping, food preparation and all that goes in to preparing and consuming healthy meals. One way to counter act this is supplementing our food. Many supplements fall short in what they deliver in terms of natural provided nutrients. 

Nikken’s philosophy (and ours) is that the best way to take care of our nutritional needs, is the natural way. Nikken created the first complete program based on natural, organic ingredients. These fill the nutritional gaps in our daily diet, to help us "eat right," even when our meals may fall short of their nutrtional mark. Organic-Based Nutrition means that all ingredients are carefully chosen, and the organic content is maximized. 
Nikken Kenzen® Wellness nutrition is founded on a whole-food philosophy. These organic-based solutions help bring our daily diet closer to nature and is an integral part of our Wellness Home.

Here are three of our favorite products that are core to our nutritional needs:

Kenzen Vital Balance® Meal Replacement Mix- We kick-start every day with a KVB shake.

KVB’s formula contains organic moringa and naturally sweet monk fruit in addition to organic pea protein and organic vegetables. It is designed to help burn fat and boost metabolism as well as promote healthy brain function and the elimination of toxins in the body. With pre- and probiotics to assist in digestive and immune system activity, the Kenzen Vital Balance formula is food for action and food for thought—for people of all ages. 

Naturally-sourced protein from organic pea, organic rice and organic chlorella to promote the formation of lean muscle mass without the high levels of saturated fat and calories associated with animal protein.
Contains Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), sourced exclusively from palm kernel oil, serve as “brain food” to support cognitive sharpness and for weight loss to assist in burning fat, boosting metabolism and regulating the appetite.*

Jade GreenZymes®- We have glass of JGZ’s twice a day.

Called "nature's perfect food," barley grass is said to have more nutrition than an equal serving of any other vegetable. The barley grass in organic Jade GreenZymes® is beneficial in helping balance pH, supporting a strong immune system, and assisting in maintaining blood glucose levels that are already in the normal range. 

Made with organic barley grass and our Proprietary Blend of organic acacia and organic pearl barley seed extract powder.

Kosher and vegan certified and USDA Organic.

Kenzen Super Ciaga® - We use this once a day and have developed some very delicious drink variations.

An organic mixed superfruit juice concentrate made exclusively with organic fruit content. This advanced formula is made with a select group of superfruits chosen for their nutrient and antioxidant characteristics. Highly concentrated, it has an exceptional ORAC value. 

Excellent flavor enhancer when diluted and mixed in with other beverages or water.
• Great replacement for sodas that may contain artificial sweeteners or lots of sugar. Simply mix with Nikken PiMag® water or seltzer for a naturally sweet beverage.
• Certified Kosher by Earth Kosher.
•USDA certified organic.

• No preservatives, 12 month shelf life.

Super Ciaga bottles are made of an environmentally-friendly polymer that contains no bisphenol-A (BPA) or other potentially harmful chemicals, are easily recycled and compared to glass, require fewer resources to store and transport.

An effective nutritional strategy is more than just what we eat. It requires attention to many self care processes that can affect our well-being. Quality sleep, proper hydration with healthy water, reduction of our body burden of toxic chemicals and stress management are all important for improving and maintaining good health.

One of the most important decisions we make every day is what we eat and drink. It is everyone’s Choice to eat Healthy or not.

Be Healthy by Choice, not by Chance

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.*