Show Up At The Beach Ready To play

If you look like you are carrying a spare tire when you show up for beach volleyball, you’re not going to win any hard body at the beach contests.

To get there you are going to have true, solid hard muscle to really impress. You want that chiseled, sculpted look that you see in the movies or in competitions.

Eliminate the weak soft points on your body. Mass Maker is the quest you have been seeking. Combine this with a little hard work in the gym and a proper diet, and you will look like an action figure in no time.

Supplementstogo is your source for muscle building supplements and has the lowest prices around. With hard work and World Class Nutrition you will have the body of your dreams. Muscle, low fat, Strength, confidence, and a look that exudes raw power.

4 Keys To Unlock A Healthy Body

I had a conversation with some friends of mine about how hard it is when you get older to reach our fitness goals. We hit on some of the key points to having great health.

You have to know what you want and be Determined to get it. Don't quit on yourself or your workout plan. You must believe in yourself and don't let anything get in the way of your goals. There are always going to be challenges and your will power will be tested. But you have to find ways to clear those hurdles without breaking stride. Find the motivation within yourself to keep at it. If you find yourself at a weak point, a friend or workout partner can help get you through it.

During every workout Intensity is important. You must work your body hard if you want to see the positive changes. Push yourself a little extra each week, but be sure to avoid overdoing it. Your muscles need time to repair after your intense workout. That is how your muscles grow stronger than before. A supplement like American Whey Protein. is ideal for facilitating muscle recovery.

Eating right is just as important as exercise. Your body will lose muscle along with fat if you diet without exercise. Conversely, you will not lose as much fat as you want to if you exercise without a healthy diet. The solution is to eat frequently but healthy. Eat 5-6 times a day, that's about once every 4 hours or so. Try replacing some meals with Whey Gold Meal, which is a high quality meal replacement product. This provides you with a vitamin rich meal on the go.

Time is needed to see results. We live in a microwave world. People want to see results instantly without putting in the time and hard work to get them. Enjoy the time it takes for you to see and feel results. There is nothing more rewarding than watching your body transform into the body of your dreams. You will notice your self confidence and energy level increase, and other people will notice it too.

Keep these points in mind as you work your way to your goals.

Good Meals … Good Deals

I got an email from Kelly Sonora last week about nutritious foods and still sticking to a budget. She did a great job and I thought it was worth passing on. Here are the foods that she recommended. Eating nutritious meals does not mean breaking the budget.

Many people including bodybuilders do choose to supplement their nutrition, so when a supplement is required, visit this high quality online site. See what you think.

Eating healthy is a great idea in theory, but when sticking to your budget is as important as it is during this economic crisis, it’s often quicker and easier to pick up the cheapest foods at the store. These 50 foods, however, prove that nutrition doesn’t have to be as expensive as you think.

Fruits

Eating fresh fruits that are in season can actually save you money. These fruits, including apricots and raspberries, will give you the most nutrition bang for your buck.

Strawberries: When bought in season, strawberries can be bought in bulk or individually for a modest price. And just one half cup of raw strawberries contains 149% of your daily value for Vitamin C.
Apricots: Apricots are a good source of the antioxidant beta-carotene, which is converted to Vitamin A once ingested. Buy fresh apricots and dry them yourself for better savings.
Blackberries: Raw blackberries are low in calories but have a significant amount of dietary fibers, plus 50% of your daily value of Vitamin C per cup.
Raspberries: Raw raspberries are another easy, healthy snack that isn’t too costly. They contain Vitamin K, magnesium, dietary fiber, and Vitamin C.
Cherries: Make sure you buy cherries in season, or they can get expensive. They’re known as a "super fruit" because of their very high beta carotene content, as well as their fiber, folate, iron, magnesium, Vitamin C and potassium content.
Cantaloupe: Cantaloupes not only go a long way in terms of recipes and snacking, they’re also low in calories, have no fat, and contain 120% of your daily value of Vitamin A and 108% Vitamin C in just one cup.
Pears: One pear contains 24% of your daily value of fiber and have a low glycemic index, which means that the carbohydrates are slow to convert to sugar. Pears also contain Vitamin C and Potassium.
Raisins: Raisins do contain plenty of sugars, but no fat or cholesterol. They are also a good source of potassium, iron and dietary fiber.
Watermelon: Buy a huge watermelon in season for a cost-effective summer snack that’s packed with vitamins. Watermelons contain Vitamin A, B6, and lots of Vitamin C.
Peaches: Buy fresh, not canned, peaches for the best nutritional value. Peaches contain beta-carotene, Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Vitamin A.
Figs: Buy fresh figs and dry them yourself to save on cost. Figs are fat, cholesterol, and sodium-free; have 20% of your daily value of fiber; and "have the highest overall mineral content of common fruits," according to California Figs.
Blueberries: Blueberries are strong carriers of Vitamin C, manganese and dietary fiber, and also contain Vitamin E.
Cranberries: Cranberries are actually low in sugar and calories and contain lots of Vitamin C, dietary fiber, manganese and Vitamin K.
Oranges: Get plenty of Vitamin C, as well as dietary fiber, folate, Vitamin B1, potassium, Vitamin A and calcium from just one orange.
Bananas: Bananas may have carbs and sugar, but they’ve also got lots of Vitamin C and potassium, plus Vitamin B6, dietary fiber and manganese, making them a nutrient-rich snack.

Vegetables

Like fruits, fresh veggies are often inexpensive and can be used for lots of different meals and snacks during the week. Eat these vegetables to get your iron, calcium, fiber and other nutrients.
Asparagus: Asparagus has more folic acid than any other vegetable. Folic acid helps prevent liver disease and helps your blood cells grow.
Tomatoes: Tomatoes contain beta and alpha-carotene, lutein, fiber, potassium, Vitamin C, folate and more vitamins. Plus, depending on the variety you choose, they’re quite inexpensive.
Crimini mushrooms: Crimini mushrooms have almost no calories but are packed with potassium, selenium, Vitamins B2, B1, B6 and B3, zinc, magnesium, iron, calcium, folate, protein and more.
Squash and Zucchini: Summer squash and zucchini are only about $1 - $2 a piece and contain a moderate amount of Vitamin C and Vitamin A, plus iron and protein.
Black beans: Black beans are one of the healthiest varieties of beans, containing 24% of your daily value of dietary fiber, 14% of your daily value of protein, and no saturated fat per 1/2 cup.
Lentils: Raw lentils have a lot of calories, but no saturated fat and 50g of protein. They’re also an excellent source of iron and dietary fiber.
Carrots: Raw carrots bought individually are incredibly cheap and are a good source of dietary fiber. One cup of copped carrots also contains 428% of your daily value of Vitamin A.
Broccoli: One cup of raw broccoli flowerets only contains 20 calories but has 110% of your daily value of Vitamin C, 43% of Vitamin A, and no fat or cholesterol.
Kidney beans: Kidney beans are rich in B-complex vitamins, niacin, folate, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, soluble fiber and calcium.
Pearl Barley: Add pearl barley to a soup or salad for a major dietary fiber boost, plenty of iron, and a good dose of protein.
Leafy spinach: Leafy spinach is moderately priced by the bunch, and can be divided up for multiple salads, sandwiches and garnishes. It contains fiber, B-complex vitamins, folate, magnesium, lutein and potassium.
Potatoes: Potatoes contain carbohydrates, calories and sugars, but they’re also a very versatile, cost-effective food that contains lots of nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, potassium, manganese and dietary fiber.
Green bell pepper: Green bell peppers are cheaper than red bell peppers, but each one still contains 220% of your daily value of Vitamin C.
Cabbage: Cabbage contains 91% of your daily value of Vitamin K; over 50% for Vitamin C; and a healthy amount of dietary fiber, Vitamin b6, omega-3 fatty acids, folate, manganese and more.
Jalapeno pepper: A jalapeno pepper is very cheap, and because it’s so hot and spicy, only a very small portion is needed at a time, making it cost-effective. Jalapeno peppers also contain Vitamin C and Vitamin A, plus a healthy amount of dietary fiber and iron.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds can be bought in bulk or buy the pound. Best of all, they’re packed with nutrients and vitamins, and you only need a small amount to get the benefits, making them last between trips to the grocery store.

Almonds: Try unsalted almonds for plenty of omega-3 fatty acids, polyunsaturated fats, Vitamin E and fiber. You only need a handful for an energy boost that will fill you up, too.
Flaxseed: Flaxseed is usually sold in pretty large bags, and you only need to add a tiny bit to cereal or any homemade breads and grains for the benefits. Flaxseed contains omega-3 fatty acids and lots of fiber.
Walnuts: Walnuts are another healthy nut that contains magnesium, folate, polyunsaturated fats, omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin E. Add a few to a fruit salad, or eat them alone.
Sunflower seeds: Sunflower seeds contain lots of Vitamin E, more than almonds, peanut butter or even spinach.
Sesame seed kernels: A handful of sesame seed kernels contains a healthy amount of iron, calcium and protein, plus dietary fiber.
Brazil nuts: Brazil nuts are considered an excellent source of selenium and also contain protein, fiber and magnesium.

Grains

Picking the whole-grain version doesn’t necessarily mean you have to go over budget. These healthy foods are also cost effective.

Whole grain or multigrain bread: You don’t have to buy the fancy bread: just pick out a moderately priced (maybe the generic brand) whole grain or multigrain version to get heart-healthy bread that has plenty of dietary fiber.

Brown rice: Rice goes a long way, and it’s inexpensive. Plus, it’s full of fiber, B-complex vitamins, niacin and magnesium.
Whole-wheat spaghetti: Even the whole-wheat variety of spaghetti makes a cheap meal, and it’s packed with fiber.
Couscous: Like rice and pasta, couscous goes a long way when you cook it. It also contains protein and fiber, when you choose the whole-wheat or whole-grain variety.
Whole grain tortillas: One whole-grain tortilla has 8g of protein and 7g of dietary fiber. Tortillas are usually sold in large packs, too.
Oatmeal: Depending on the kind of oatmeal you buy, you can usually find a pretty good deal. It’s also a good source of fiber.

Beverages

You can drink your way to good health, too, and these beverage options are also budget-friendly.

Green tea: Green tea contains the highest concentration of the antioxidants called polyphenols, and may help prevent some types of cancer and heart disease. Buy your own green tea packets from the grocery store to save on cost.
Milk: Low-fat or non-fat milk that is fortified with Vitamin D, plus calcium, Vitamin A and protein. Buy store brand or generic brand milk for a better deal.
Orange juice: Generic brand orange juice isn’t terribly expensive, and it contains Vitamin D and plenty of Vitamin C.

Miscellaneous

From sardines to yogurt, these healthy foods are also packed with nutrients.
Plain yogurt: Buy large containers of plain, non-fat yogurt instead of the individual snack-sized yogurts to save money and get the most nutritional version. One cup of plain yogurt contains 14g of protein and 49% of your daily value of calcium. Plus, it also contains probiotics which help your body absorb nutrients.
Egg whites: Egg whites do contain a fair amount of sodium, but they also contain 26g of protein per cup and zero fat.
Tuna: Tuna is a cold-water fish that contains much-needed omega-3 fatty acids and lots of protein. It’s also usually cheaper than salmon or mackerel.
Tomato soup: Make your own variety for an even more cost-effective soup. Tomato soup is a good source of Vitamin C, iron, Vitamin A and dietary fiber.
Sardines: Sardines are an excellent source of iron, calcium and protein, as well as niacin, Vitamin D and Vitamin B12. Just don’t indulge too often: sardines are also very high in cholesterol.

Protein Bars For Quick Energy

Even though it might not seem like it right now summertime is right around the corner and we are going to be outside a lot more often. As I went for a jog this morning I was reminded of how easy it is to take off without taking time for breakfast. I am just trying to maintain a healthier lifestyle, but if I was in a heavier training regimen it would still be essential to make sure that I didn’t go too long in between eating.

I had run out of my supply of Protein Bars and after a while my stomach complained to me about it. Usually I keep plenty of tasteful energy-boosting bars like Steel Bars around to help maintain the ideal weight that I am trying to reach by summer. There's no sense in having a great regimen if you don't have the energy to carry it out.

There are a few things I try to watch out for when I buy protein bars. First of all, look at the fat content. Try to avoid protein bars that have more saturated fat than a cheeseburger. I just scan the label real quick. I don’t want this to be my whole days requirements in one bar.

Second, because I am a male, I look for a protein bar that doesn’t have a lot of iron content. Men don't need as much iron as women, and if you look at high quality men's multivitamins you will see that they contain no iron. Some protein bars have 100% of the recommended daily allowance of iron, and there is no reason for that, so avoid those bars at all costs (women can disregard this advice). You may also have noticed that iron has a funky smell and can completely ruin the taste of a protein bar.

Finally, those of you who are carb-conscious may want to check the carb levels to make sure they fit within your acceptable limits. I usually have a glass of water along with my protein bar because it helps wash it down, and also helps keep me hydrated along with settling my stomach.

Exchange Carbs With Protein In My Diet?

A new study on losing weight was recently published in the Journal of Nutrition found that diets with more protein may be better for reducing body fat and improving the fat in your blood also. The researchers suggested that dieters exchange some carbohydrates for protein.

Over the course of a year a moderate-protein diet worked better than a regular high-carbohydrate, low-fat diet to help adults shed body fat. The other benefits had to do with increasing "healthy" HDL cholesterol and decreasing triglycerides, which can clog the arteries.

For the study all participants were given menu plans and attended weekly meetings with a dietitian to help them stick with their lifestyle changes. If you don’t have a personal dietitian and don’t think you are getting enough protein you can find Supplements like Whey Protein powder which athletes and body builders have used for years. Whey protein is also low in calories, tastes great, and mixes easily in juice, milk, or water.

One of the problems with any diet is plan is going about it the right way if you want to succeed, and that is where the dietitians helped. They planned menus and conducted weekly nutrition education sessions. If they had to do it by themselves the individual results might have varied somewhat.

If you want to cut out carbohydrates by modifying your eating plan to include more protein you also have to change your approach to how many meals you consume each day.

What that means is the idea of eating around six small meals over the course of a day works when the diet is high carb, low fat because people are hungry more often, but it's opposite for a moderate protein diet.

The dietitians advised that it is more important to eat three consistent meals with balanced protein and carbohydrates for each meal. A higher protein diet is not more protein at dinner, but balanced protein at breakfast and lunch.

The bottom line was that after a year, the average weight loss was similar in the two groups, the moderate protein diet lost 23 pounds, and around 19 pounds with the high carbohydrate diet.

The difference between the two groups was the protein diet lost more fat mass, and had greater improvements in both HDL and triglyceride levels.

Dr. Donald K. Layman, of the University of Illinois in Urbana was the lead researcher, and he concluded that the extra protein at each meal helps dieters preserve "metabolically active" muscle mass. Along with that the diet's lower carbohydrate content means lower levels of the blood-sugar-regulating hormone insulin.

According to Dr. Layman the diet encourages the body to shed more stored fat. The greater improvement in triglycerides, he said, is largely the result of cutting carbs, which can raise triglyceride levels.

My personal philosophy on nutrition, along with everything else in life is Moderation. I like the idea of a well balanced moderate protein diet, not only to control blood sugars but because the body needs all of the nutrients that supply energy carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Each category has a special purpose and is essential in the proper amounts, and causes problems for the body in the wrong amounts. Too much of any of these nutrients can lead to an increase in body fat. Add a good exercise program to the mix and you have everything it takes for a healthy lifestyle.

Supplements I Recommend

The supplement industry seems to push hundreds of thousands of "best in the world miracles" in order to achieve health benefits and it is difficult to choose the good from the bad. Every day it seems there are exaggerated, misleading and flat-out false claims in what we see, hear and read.

On the other hand we can’t ignore the pharmaceutical-like properties of real food. Keep in mind that supplementation is a very personalized thing and that "supplement" should imply that you are adding to an already healthy and varied diet.

Certain supplements can be beneficial, and I have highlighted what I use based on cost and benefit:

Fish Oil
Omega-3 fatty acids are one of the superfoods of this decade. The research has been very promising when it comes to this essential fat found in fatty, cold-water fish such as; salmon, mackerel, sardines and herring. The problem is, most people don't eat enough fish to get the coveted EPA and DHA (components of omega-3's) found in these fish and responsible for a healthier brain, heart and joints.

A multivitamin/mineral
These are good for almost anyone who wants to make sure that any shortages in their nutritional needs are covered. My recommendation for someone looking for a multivitamin is one with 100% RDI in most ingredients. You don’t want too much vitamin A (more than 10,000 IU) and folic acid (more than .5g).

Whey protein powder
Very versatile and easy way to get a useable protein into your body. Protein smoothies are excellent before or after exercise and can be turned into a meal-on-the-go really easily. Isolate is a purer form than concentrate when it comes to whey protein.

Vitamin D
In light of recent research, vitamin D is becoming as essential as fish oil. Medical literature has been full of articles on it's positive impact on health. It has been shown to lower the risk of diabetes, along with fighting breast and pancreatic cancer, and it has even been shown to lengthen life. Research considers 1000IU’s safe for almost anyone, so unless you live in the tropics you need all you can get.

Calcium
Women especially need more of this mineral. Recommendations of 500mg supplements will help you reach a daily target of around 1200mg. If you can find a supplement with vitamin D and Calcium (and maybe magnesium) in one, this is a good bet.

Additional Supplements:

These supplements are still being researched but preliminary results are positive and worth added if you have a specific need.

Alpha Lipoic Acid:
ALA is an antioxidant with the unique ability to function in both water and fat. It has been used to boost brain function and improve age-related conditions by protecting nerve cells. Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA): See discussion here.

Creatine Monohydrate:
This continues to be the top bodybuilding performance and muscle building supplement of choice.

Probiotics:
Healthy bacteria such as Acidophilus have shown some promise in keeping the gut healthy. Preliminary research has shown the possibility of preventing peptic ulcers, infections and even reduce the risk of colon cancer.

PS as a side note: Many people are using a colon cleanser along with Acai Berry for weight loss.

The Answer Is ... For A Healthier, Leaner Lifestyle

The question is: What is the benefit of taking CALOTREN CAPSULES as a nutritional supplement?

Calotren is an all natural nutritional supplement formula that supports maintaining your bodies optimum balance for healthy weight. The protein collagen hydrolysate is easily digested and supplies your body with very important nutrients to help your body to maintain collagen production while helping to build lean muscle.

It feeds your body nutrients which allow it to support itself in maintaining or increasing your lean muscle tissue, which helps your body to burn fat and sugar more effectively, as well as supporting your body's natural metabolism.

Body builders have known for years that increasing lean muscle tissue allows your body to burn more calories while at rest, so if you don't increase your calorie intake, increased lean muscle tissue can result in burning more calories.

If you are in good physical condition or underweight, Calotren encourages your body to reach its highest level of vitality, without additional undesirable loss of lean muscle mass, which frequently occurs during calorie-restricted "dieting".

Remember, fat is stored energy. In our youth we have a faster metabolic rate which assists our bodies in producing energy to build muscle, bone and maintain good health while we sleep. As we get older, this process slows down. Our bodies no longer function in this manner or produce the collagen or amino acids required to keep our skin looking radiant or our bodies tight and strong.

Calotren is effective in maintaining a healthier leaner lifestyle because it is primarily protein. This protein is basic to body structure and is actually the most prevalent protein in the body. It's also important to our muscular strength, flexibility, resiliency, and the ability of our joints and connective tissues to absorb impact.

The protein formula in Calotren is important in maintaining our youthful appearance by promoting supple, wrinkle free, non-sagging skin on our faces and all other areas. It's also important in maintaining our muscles, the sufficient support of body organs and keeping our blood flowing through resilient and responsive arteries, capillaries and veins.

Since this protein is a major constituent of all of these tissues, maintaining the levels is very important to our health. This protein, which is already broken down into its modular components by enzymes are quickly absorbed and used by the body when taken orally. From there they help to build up and strengthen the muscle tissue, which is turn is going to begin to burn off the excess fats and sugars more efficiently.

A 90-Day Program is recommended to ensure optimum results and strengthen the muscle tissue.

So to summarize the benefits of Calotren and why it will help you on your way to a healthier happier lifestyle consider these points:

It’s safe, all natural (without caffeine or stimulants).
No ephedrine or amphetamines to interfere with any medications and no known side effects.
No muscle loss, helps tone existing muscle and strengthens joints
Assists in building lean muscle which results in loss of body inches
Helps increase energy & stamina by burning off excess body fats and sugars more efficiently.
Helps shorten work-out recovery time
Helps reduce wrinkles and age spots
No strict dieting or exercise necessary
Promotes an overall sense of well-being
On a 3-month program 50% see positive results in the first month

P.S Did I mention that CALOTREN CAPSULES are shipped free when ordered online from STG?

Eat More Fruits and Veggies For Stronger Bones

Here is a bit of trivia I ran across this morning. If you eat a lot of protein and cereal grains it causes excess acid production in the body, which could increase calcium excretion and result in weakened bones, and may also lead to osteoporosis.

When we think of taking care of our bones as we age calcium and vitamin D have been stressed, but maybe the acid/base balance of the diet is also important. That is what a new study uncovered. By increasing your alkali levels with a pill or by eating plenty of fruits and vegetables we can strengthen bones.

The study included men and women aged 50 and older who took either a placebo or doses of either potassium bicarbonate, sodium bicarbonate, or potassium chloride for three months. The people who took bicarbonate showed significant reductions in calcium and reduced bone mass.

As we age the diet of many older adults contains more acids but they are less able to excrete the acid. But if we eat more fruits and veggies they add bicarbonate in our system, which is an alkaline compound.

Dr. Bess Dawson-Hughes, of Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, noted in Endocrine Society news that "In this study, we demonstrated that adding alkali in pill form reduced bone resorption and reduced the losses of calcium in the urine over a three month period. This intervention warrants further investigation as a safe and well tolerated supplement to reduce bone loss and fracture risk in older men and women."

Who Wants Cheap Protein

American Sports Nutrition American Whey Protein has found favor with top body builders as well as professional athletes. In addition the cost is cheap for such a high quality protein. American Sports Nutrition whey in the 10lb version has 160 servings and the 25lb tub has 400 servings. You will not find a better whey protein or at a better price.

If you are a natural body builder you know that you need a diet that is high in protein and has very specific nutrition supplementation. Whey protein helps you meet your daily protein requirements when dieting for shows. They have become staples in many training camps for years.

Protein can help you shed those unwanted pounds and keep your belly full. But it's important to eat the right amount and the right kind of protein to get the health benefits. Check the label to be sure the product contains at least 6 grams of protein, and is low in sugar and fat. The ion-exchanged whey protein in this product is the most bio-available for your body. This means your body can utilize the supplementation of American Whey better than other types of protein.

American Whey Protein manufactured by American Sports Nutrition is low in calories, lactose free, tastes great, (especially the double chocolate) and mixes easily in juice, milk, or water. Just mix 1 oz level scoop in 8 oz water.

If you are on a tight budget also this top quality protein can be had Cheap, Cheaper, Cheapest when you buy at bargain distributor prices. For example the 10lb version has 160 servings and the 25lb tub has 400 servings. Check out American Whey Protein at supplementstogo and see for yourself.

Why We Need Protein In Our Diet

Proteins are needed to grow, nourish and repair body cells, muscles, tissues, and organs. They also assist other bodily functions like metabolism, digestion, and producing antibodies, that fight infection. And who hasn’t heard the shampoo commercials who tell us that protein gives us healthy shining hair?

Protein needs to be balanced for us to be at our healthiest. If you don’t get enough eventually your muscles start to weaken and break down. Our daily physical activity uses up protein and needs to be replenished.

Children need additional protein to grow and build strong muscles.Many foods which supply protein do contain certain other needed vitamins and minerals, which is one reason why protein bars have become so prevalent over the years.

Protein bars are a tasty and convenient way of ensuring your body gets the protein it needs. They are especially popular for those on the go, who do not have enough time to fix meals in advance, or simply want to avoid snacking on junk foods.

MesoTech Protein bars are ideal for a snack at work, during a long journey or simply if you get hungry. Along with being high in protein, these protein bars also have adequate carbohydrates to fuel the body with nutrition and energy. They even taste a lot better than other bars I have tried.

Mouth Watering Ready-To-Drink Nutrition

Here is a ready to drink protein shake that is high in protein and great for those following a carb-controlled diet.

For athletes who take their appearance and fitness goals seriously, Nitro-Tech RTDs have what they want, high quality protein, a variety of essential vitamins and minerals, and little fat.

Get the protein you need with Nitro-Ready-To-Drink beverages (RTDs). The smooth and creamy protein shakes and fruit-flavored drinks are perfect for high-protein/carb-controlled diets.

Protein shakes come in 15 fl. oz. (444 ml) cans that are 99 percent fat-free and contain 45 grams of high-quality protein. Available in Chocolate, Vanilla, and Strawberry flavors.

Nitro-Tech RTD fruit-flavored drinks come in 20 fl. oz. (591 ml) bottles that are fat-free and sugar-free, and contain 45 grams of high-quality protein. I didn't have to mix them, and they taste even better when they are chilled.

SupplementsToGo is proud to be offering the MuscleTech line of products, and to is able to offer you this product at the lowest price around. And if you use the coupon code vip5off you can increase your savings during the holidays.

A Few Things About Bodybuilding Supplements

Have you been looking for discount bodybuilding supplements? Well, you are not the only one. As long as there have been competitive athletes, they have searched for ways and means to try to enhance their performance and beat their opponents. Bodybuilders are no different in this respect. The goal here is to try to increase their lean muscle mass, and still maintain their health.

In days gone by this was accomplished by taking steroids, until they were banned from competitions. There are still instances that hit the news from time to time where they still get used and abused, but this can do more harm than good to your health.

Today bodybuilders and other athletes are choosing natural supplements to increase muscle mass. They are called natural because regardless of whether or not you are into athletics, they are in our bodies, and we need them to function on a daily basis. The better supplements are designed to assist our bodies to function at optimal levels. Before you begin a major training program, go on a strict diet do yourself a favor and get a checkup first. We have all heard the stories where some professional athlete died on the field because of a condition they didn’t know they had. That is not the kind of fame any of us wants to have.

If you are wondering what type of natural supplements to choose, protein is probably the most essential element to anyone who is a serious bodybuilder. You need it to build and repair muscle. Lifting puts your muscles under a lot of stress, and you need extra protein when you are constantly breaking down and repairing your muscles.

One of the most popular supplements used by bodybuilders is whey protein. Whey is easily absorbed into the body by adding it to shakes, other drinks, or sprinkling it on many foods. Other protein supplements include egg whites, milk protein called casein, or soy.

The majority of Americans get most of our protein from meat, which is high in fat, and doesn’t digest very well. If you want to build lean muscle this is not the most efficient source of protein for you. That being said, proteins are still one of the most important building blocks for muscle growth to have in your diet. To get the best results focus on getting protein that is very low in fat and easily absorbed into your body.

Increasing your testosterone also will increase your muscle mass. You can accomplish this by taking pro hormones, vitamins and minerals. Do some research about pro-hormones and possible side effects like increased breasts, acne, male pattern baldness, liver, or prostate effects.

A third subset of supplements that bodybuilders commonly use are called thermogenics. These work by increasing your metabolism and burning body fat. They are used a lot by dieters to lose weight, but bodybuilders also use them to lower their percentage of body fat. Ephedra had been banned by the FDA in 2004, but then lifted in 2005. The thermogenics on the market today can be used safely as long as you follow directions. They can help with your bodybuilding program by helping you safely reduce your body fat percentage.

So to sum it all up bodybuilding supplements are designed to help bodybuilders increase their muscle mass and decrease their fat percentage. To be successful, follow a complete plan that includes weightlifting (exercise), adequate rest, and proper nutrition along with supplementation. If you're interested in learning more about the subject, do your own research on the Internet it can be a valuable resource.

You may not think of them as you compile your supplement shopping list, but enzyme products can be a smart choice.

Digestive enzymes help the body break down and use the nutrients from fats, carbohydrates, proteins, sugars and fibers. They are produced by the body, mainly in the pancreas, but also the stomach and salivary glands to act on food in the stomach, mouth and small intestine.

Production of pancreatic enzymes is decreased by stress, caffeine, alcohol, illness, pregnancy and simply with aging. Low levels of enzymes can lead to poor digestion, occasional acid indigestion or heartburn, deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals, and low vitality. This means they have numerous benefits, not only to the digestive process, but overall health.

For active individuals or athletes enzymes can help pack on muscle mass. Studies have shown that they also play an important role in recovery from high-intensity training, making them a prime addition to a bodybuilding nutritional program.

Before the protein and carbohydrates we eat can be used for muscle growth, stored enzymes must be released from the digestive system. Three main classes of enzymes break down foods: amylases break down carbohydrates, lipases break down fats and proteases break down proteins. Although these enzymes are naturally produced and stored in our bodies, they can also be obtained from certain foods and dietary supplements. Bodybuilders looking to pack on mass can use enzyme supplements to help their digestive systems handle the large amounts of calories they need to consume; the enzymes help utilize more food so those nutrients can be put to use for muscle building.

Digestive Enzymes have also been shown to decrease the production of molecules that cause inflammation while increasing levels of anti-inflammatory substances. Excessive inflammation can delay muscle recovery and therefore slow down muscle building, by limiting the amount of inflammation that occurs after an injury, the regeneration process can begin sooner.

It is also possible that proteases speed recovery through their role in increasing amino acid absorption, which would provide more available aminos for rebuilding damaged muscles and joints. This means that enzyme supplements may not only aid recovery from an injury, but they may also help muscles recover from intense weight training.

Most enzyme supplements work in the stomach, even though almost all carbohydrate and fat digestion happens in the small intestine.

NextZyme Dual Digestive Enzymes are pH-stable and help break down food in both the stomach and the small intestine. In addition to assisting your body to digest what you eat, it also helps to absorb proteins, fats, and carbohydrates into your system.

So whether you are in need of alleviating occasional gas, bloating and indigestion, reducing that feeling of fullness due to undigested food, like whole grains beans, proteins and fats, or want to increase your energy and vitality, you might want to give a digestive enzyme like NextZyme.

Healthy Eating and Normal Portions

This morning I was looking over some of the healthy diet information I received from the Cardiac Rehabilitation Center I ran across some Portion Sizes. I decided to summarize and share them here. I hope they are beneficial to you also.

PROTEIN Portion: the size of the palm of your hand, or about 4 to 6 oz.

CARBOHYDRATES Portion: the size of your fist, or approximately 1-2 cups cooked.

FIBROUS VEGETABLES Portion: the size of your fist, or approximately 1-2 cups cooked.

FAT Portion: Meat and most other protein sources provide the majority of fat you need. Adding healthy fats, like 1-2 teaspoons of flaxseed or olive oil, or even all-natural peanut butter, to a couple of your meals is good for your body and your health.

Here are some popular examples of each type. Make sure you get a portion of protein and a portion of carbohydrate at each of your 5 - 6 meals, and throw in a portion of fibrous vegetables with 1 - 3 of your meals daily.

Mix and Match--find combinations that you like.

Protein: White Meat Chicken, Egg Whites / Eggs, White Meat Turkey, Lean Ground Beef / Steak, Canned Tuna, Protein Powder, Fresh Fish, Protein Bar , Skim or Low-Fat Milk** Yogurt**, and Cottage Cheese.**

Carbohydrates: Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Sweet Potato, Baked Potato, Whole Wheat Pasta, Whole Wheat Bread, Corn, Beans, Strawberries, Apple, and Peas.

Fibrous Vegetables: Broccoli, Green Beans, Cauliflower, Green Peppers, Spinach, Brussel Sprouts, Romaine Lettuce, Celery, Cucumbers, Carrots, and Radishes.

** Milk, Yogurt, and Cottage Cheese are good protein sources but also have lactose which should be factored into your carbohydrate portion. Check food labels for serving size and protein/carb content.

Eat a Healthy Breakfast

Quinoa Grain high protein

If you’re looking for a healthy breakfast alternative, quinoa (KEEN-WAH) may be just what you’re looking for. Although it has been used in South America for over 5,000 years, it is little known here in the North. The Inca's used to call it "The Mother Grain".

It’s unfortunate so few people know about it, because it’s one of the most complete protein sources other than milk, which is great for anyone looking to maintain their fitness.

Combine 1/3 cup quinoa with 1 cup water, boil 10-12 minutes, add some berries, cinnamon or honey and enjoy.

Ever Have a Maalox Moment?

OK, TGIF. Let’s eat. Good Mexican meal, with fried chips dipped in a salsa made with tomatoes and peppers, and a margarita, maybe even a Screwdriver, great time. About 2:30 AM, everything churned up into one big acid lake, and it’s off to the refrigerator for some milk. I’m not eating Mexican anymore.

Now it’s Saturday, friends want to go to dinner. No way if we eat Mexican, I’m out. Had a case of indigestion that felt like I would self immolate. My throat was on fire.

Fine we’ll go Italian. Great, we’re there. I’ll have wheat pasta and rolls with butter, tomatoes in the sauce, and red wine… Deja Vu … About 2:30 AM, everything churned up into one big acid lake, and it’s off to the refrigerator for some milk. Now I’m not eating Mexican, or Italian anymore.

Who knew that I should avoided the tomatoes, wheat, and bad oils, and that since the liver is most active from 2:00 to 3:00 AM, this is often when problems occur? I do now, but I still like what I like.

What to do?

I found a couple of options, AbsorbAid Powder For Quick Digestion, and AbsorbAid will help digest every food group. It has been scientifically proven to enhance the absorption of vital nutrients up to 71%, and Now Foods Calcium/Magnesium 500/250 mg, tablets. which cost less and the serving size to get 1000mg of calcium in carbonate form and 500mg of magnesium oxide is only two tablets. For relief all day long, take one with breakfast and/or lunch and a couple before bed.

Heart burn, or acid reflux, or GERD, occurs when muscles of the lower esophagus do not function properly. This causes food and acids from the stomach to leak back, or reflux, into the esophagus. The most frequent symptom of heartburn can be aggravated by foods, certain medications, and other factors.

Here are some other suggestions to improve your heartburn symptoms.

Don't go to bed with a full stomach. Eat meals at least 2 to 3 hours before lying down. This gives food time to digest and empty from your stomach, and acid levels a chance to decrease before putting your body in a position where heartburn is more likely to occur.

Don't overeat. Cut the size of portions at meal times, or try eating four to five small meals instead of three large ones.

Eat slowly. Take time to enjoy eating, don't rush. Try putting your fork down between bites.

Wear loose-fitting clothes.

Avoid heartburn triggers. Stay away from foods and beverages that trigger your heartburn symptoms (for example, onions, peppermint, chocolate, caffeine-containing beverages such as coffee, citrus fruits or juices, tomatoes, or high-fat foods). A good way to figure out what foods cause your symptoms is to keep a heartburn diary.

Shed some pounds. If you are overweight, losing weight can help relieve your symptoms.

Stop smoking. Nicotine, one of the main active ingredients in cigarettes, can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, the muscle that controls the opening between the esophagus and stomach, preventing the acid-containing contents of the stomach from entering the esophagus.

Avoid alcohol. If your aim is to unwind after a stressful day, try exercise, walking, meditation, stretching, or deep breathing instead of drinking alcohol.

Keep a diary or heartburn log. Keep track of when heartburn hits and the specific activities that seem to trigger the incidents.

If your heartburn is worse when lying down:

Raise the head of your bed so that your head and chest are higher than your feet. You can do this by placing six-inch blocks under the bed posts at the head of the bed. Don't use piles of pillows to achieve the same goal. You will only put your head at an angle that can increase pressure on your stomach and make your heartburn worse.

Eat earlier. Try not to eat for at least three hours before you go to sleep.

If your heartburn worsens after you exercise:

Time your meals. Wait at least two hours after a meal before exercising. If you work out any sooner, you may trigger heartburn.

Drink more water. Drink plenty of water before and during exercise to prevent dehydration.