Have Another Round Of Shots
November 3, 2009
Although some days I truly feel like a cow (thank you long weekend of no working out), I would never consider a pile of grass as an afternoon pick me up. However, despite my efforts to move away from the bovine world, I’m starting to get really into wheatgrass shots to cleanse my system and bring in extra enzymes.
Available at most juice bars, wheatgrass is 70% chlorophyll (first product of light and the basis of all plant life) and high in oxygen – helping the brain and body tissue to function at optimal levels. Chlorophyll, a natural anti-bacterial, rebuilds the bloodstream and when grown in organic dirt, absorbs 92 of the known 102 minerals from the soil. All of this combined makes wheatgrass a superior detoxifying agent, purifying the liver and colon (TMI) as well as removing heavy metals form the body. Many people gargle with wheatgrass juice to soothe a sore throat, or use as a means to reduce high blood pressure and enhance the capillaries.
Instead of making daily trips to Jamba Juice or a local smoothie bar for my hit of wheatgrass, I buy packages of frozen ‘wheatgrass cubes’ at Whole Foods. They take a minute to defrost using warm water and are a lot easier to store at home – I know this is one shot my mom will approve of.
The Best Whey To Go
October 13, 2009
Protein shakes used to be synonymous with body building competitions and men in electric blue t-back thongs (disturbing in so many ways)…but that’s so 90′s. Companies like Designer Whey now offer a less aggressive (creatine free) whey protein for those of us not strutting the stage super soaked in baby oil. All Designer Whey products are gluten and peanut free plus contain very low levels of lactose (less than 3%), making this a safe option for just about everyone.
Proteins, derived from the Greek word meaning ‘of first importance’, are the basic building blocks of life. Whey beats out soy and egg proteins in reducing appetite and voluntary eating (no more mindlessly stuffing your face). Athletes use whey to increase muscle mass and speed up body fat loss while resistance training. Personally, I have found that it has been the best source for tissue recovery and helping to reduce post-exercise soreness (you know, that kind when you sit down in your chair and can’t stand back up…)
My favorite Designer Whey is the Original Chocolate: 18 grams protein/2 grams fat/ 100 calories/2 grams sugar. I’ll mix one level scoop with water, stir and have for breakfast with a piece of whole fruit and multi grain toast. This also makes a great (and portable) post workout meal supplement. For the past few months I have experienced leaner muscle, a stronger body and a more convenient post exercise fuel – is there any other whey to go?
