How Can I Balance Meals the Healthy Way?

Not only did I FALL OFF the Diet Wagon, I DRAGGED it into the Woods, SET it on FIRE, and used the insurance money to buy cupcakes.

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Eating healthy, balanced meals is a daily struggle. In this “The Impetus” vlog we talk about some ways you can supplement your diet with Whole Food, kosher, vegan, and organic nutrition. We introduce what we call Kenzen Wellness Core nutrition. We also talk about how you can save some money and time.

Take a look at the product labels here:

Kenzen Vital Balance Meal Replacement Mix label:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dqL-r13J-j0LdI_cxjFU9O7XaZQDM00V/view?usp=sharing

Kenzen Jade GreenZymes label: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lbwN9EgtjgbNswo8QOWoAJ0A05A1S704/view?usp=sharing

Kenzen Super Ciaga label:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UlsIT0CmYxUOhbJuE1r5pkGKAoEmpW9h/view?usp=sharing

Kenzen Omega Green + DHA label:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wqP9UStlUUx8PT0S_0xSUiwnu1Z0fPcu/view?usp=sharing

Be Healthy by Choice, Not by Chance!

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.

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.*

Nutrition in Your Wellness Home

To eat is a necessity, but to eat intelligently is an art. 

Eating You Alive

“People aren’t living longer, they are dying longer.” This is the first statement in a trailer for an upcoming in theater broadcast event of the movie “Eating You Alive”.  For more details on the film and showings check out their webpage.

EatingYouAlive.org is a non-profit 501(c)(3) committed to promoting the power of a Whole Foods Plant Based lifestyle through films, television and online platforms.  With a fresh and passionate perspective, our mission is to produce content that educates and inspires audiences to implement the changes that have been proven, through science and experience, to reverse disease, create a more sustainable planet and promote a more compassionate global community.

Half of all adults in the U.S. struggle with chronic health conditions including cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity, hypertension, Alzheimer’s and arthritis just to mane a few. Twenty-five percent of us 2 have two or more chronic health issues. Seven out of 10 deaths in the U.S. are a result of chronic diseases, yet it is estimated that over 80% of chronic disease is preventable.

Despite countless dollars spent on medical research, new drugs and innovative technology to improve our health, more Americans are disabled and dying from chronic disease than ever before. Nearly 70% of our population are on some type of prescription medication. We fill over 4.3 billion prescriptions per year. Many chronic and degenerative conditions are becoming epidemic and the United States currently leads the world in almost every disease and chronic condition.  Although the U.S represents 4.4% of the world’s population, we consume 75% of the world’s pharmaceutical drugs.

At some point you must ask, Why? What is causing all of this dis-ease? This is the impetus for the film “Eating You Alive”. From information listed on their web page they are advocates for plant based whole food nutrition. Although, Heather and I are not vegan, we do try and include as much whole foods, while eliminating processed foods in our Wellness Home.  We are very cognitive of our sugar consumption as well as the other aspects of the Self Care Awakening.

Whole Food Nutrition

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. The Nikken concept of Whole Body Renewal includes a Core System to help meet daily needs, and modules that offer support for specific biological activities: gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, neurological, immune, and skeletal support.

A few of our daily favorites are Kenzen Vital Balance®, Jade GreenZymes® and Kenzen Super Ciaga®.

Just 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. It is our biggest aspiration that you will Be Healthy by Choice, not by Chance, and if you have the chance you may want to catch “Eating You Alive” at select theaters on April 5th.

“quick, power-up, healthy Kenzen Vital Balance protein snack recipe”

½ cup rolled oats
1 scoop of vanilla or chocolate Kenzen Vital Balance pea protein powder
(our fav is chocolate)
½ cup peanut or almond butter
¼ cup honey
½ Tbsp Chia seeds
Dried Cherries
Water

• Combine ingredients in a bowl only adding water as needed
• Mix until ingredients start to form a ball
• Form into bite sized balls and chill until firm
Check out Kenzen Vital Balance: https://goo.gl/SiWe42 🤗