Shakeology - (Acts like a Salad. Tastes like Dessert)

"Chocolate" Shakeology

I'm always on the look out for shakes and supplements which will provide me with the proper nutrients to fuel my body, aid my workouts, and continue my progress.

I was recently introduced to a nutrition shake that I really like and wanted to share it with you if you're unfamiliar.  I really haven't experienced anything quite like it.  It contains 70 natural ingredients, 23 vitamins and minerals, proteins/amino acids (for muscle repair), phytonutrients, pre-biotics, antioxidants and digestive enzymes. It's intended to be a meal replacement shake but because of it's low calorie content and the fact that I typically consume a half serving at a time I actually substitute it for one of my daily snacks.  It's also like your multi-vitamin in a  glass. I've only been drinking this shake once or twice a week for about a month and I've already realized some significant benefits to include:

• Higher energy
• Elevated mood
• Better Digestion
• Reduced cravings

I have yet to see the weight loss benefit the product claims, but I'm giving it some time.
The product is called Shakeology and this video explains what it's all about much better than I can:

The shake comes in 2 flavors: greenberry and chocolate. Generally the shakes taste good, but if you just prepare them with water the texture can be a bit bitter and chalky (leaving an aftertaste) so I like to even it out with some other ingredients.  There are some recipes on Beachbody's Shakeology website, but I've also come up with some of my own which I really like:


STACIE'S CREATIONS:

CHOCO-VANILLA SHAKEOLOGY

1/4 cup Chocolate Shakelogy

1/4 cup Vanilla Whey Protein powder

1 Tsp. Organic Almond Nut Butter  

1/4 cup almond milk

8 oz water

4-5 ice cubes

Fat-free whip cream

Cinnamon

Blend and top w/ a dollop of fat free whip cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Delicious!

(Tastes like chocolate ice-cream in a glass)

LEMON-LIME GREENBERRY SHAKE:

1/2 to 1 packet of Greenberry Shakeology 

1/2 packet of Crystal Light Pure Fitness (Lemon-lime powder)

1 TB - Lemon Yogurt

2 tsp of lime juice (season to taste)

8 oz of water

4-5 ice cubes ice

ORANGE ZEST GREENBERRY SHAKE:

1/2 to 1 packet of Greenberry Shakeology 

1 TB - Lemon Yogurt

2 tsp of lime juice (season to taste)

8 oz of Zevia Orange Twist Diet Soda

4-5 ice cubes ice

Motivation, Inspiration and Reciprocation

I just wanted to take a moment to thank all of my family, friends, colleagues and co-workers who are supporting me in my journey. In particular, I've received a lot of encouragement from Facebook friends in support of my weight loss and fitness efforts.

My goal is not only to improve myself but also make a difference in other people's lives, inspire them, and let them know they have the power to change.

I appreciate the folks who've read my blog & took the time to contact me and say they are being inspired. When we are promoters of positive energy and encourage others with our sincere and supportive comments we get back something much greater in return. I try to practice this in my daily life and be happy for others when they accomplish important milestones.

"Encourage others and share in the fortune of success."


..So three things happened this week to encourage me:

1) I ran into a guy at the gym who I see often in the free weight room. He's in great shape (and by that I mean he can lift 100 lb dumbbells with relative ease) ...and this guy is probably in his 50s.  He looked at me, smiled and tossed a compliment my way: "You're looking good."  I was pleasantly surprised. Just 3 words can really give someone a boost and make their day.

2) I stopped by Vitamin Barn to see if they carried a certain line of nutritional supplements. They didn't have what I wanted, but I explained to the owner why I was looking for them and what my goals were. She was so nice and supportive that she gave me an entire bag full of samples of the exact products I was in search of and even a few others. This way I could try them before buying in bulk. As we talked, I realized she had a wealth of information and knowledge that she was willing to share. As a result of our conversation, I'm going to switch the type of protein supplement and nutrition shake I use. The protein supplement she uses and recommends is a whey protein product whose label clearly states "no artificial sweeteners; made from hormone-free and antibiotic-free cows."  My products are either processed soy (not so good) as opposed to natural and non-GMO (or non genetically-modified) or whey protein that doesn't have the hormone/antibiotic free disclaimer.  She explained that 90% of the processed soy on the market is genetically-modified and they have estrogenic effects on women that are undesirable (causing reproductive issues  and a host of other problems). She actually validated what Jillian Michaels has mentioned previously in some of her books and podcasts...but that's a topic for another day. :)

3)  Finally, the response from my Facebook friends to my 20 lb. weight loss has been really great. Perhaps others can relate to how challenging this journey is.  I suppose the diet, weight loss, and fitness industry wouldn't be raking in billions of dollars if this were easy.

I'm grateful for the resources, knowledge,  and support and most of all thankful for the motivation to just keep going in spite of any obstacles and make this a lifestyle.