Breaking the sugar/carb habit

I am so grateful to #PlexusSlim ! Although I enjoy sweets, I was a huge CARB fiend! From my very first day on Slim almost a year ago was the beginning of breaking my sugar addiction! (remember carbs get turned into sugar in your body).    Where I couldn't keep chips or crackers in the house because I'd eat the entire package in one evening, now I'm finding they lasts for weeks (and in some cases go stale before I finish them)

#Chromium supplementation is a simple method to improve blood sugar control in some people. Several studies have evaluated the effect of chromium on #glucose levels with varied results, but a significant number of these studies have shown that chromi...um can normalize blood sugar levels, improve blood sugar utilization and decrease insulin requirements in patients with glucose intolerance and insulin resistance. In one study, blood sugar responses to a carbohydrate meal of white bread were measured with and without a single dose (400 micrograms) of chromium. The addition of chromium resulted in a 23% reduction in blood sugar after the meal. Thus, taking chromium with carbohydrate-rich foods may be an effective way to lower the glycemic index of that meal.

Chromium and cholesterol levels   

Chromium also plays a role in fat metabolism. Several studies have investigated chromium’s effects on lipid profiles. A number of those studies reported reductions in triglycerides, as much as 32%, and reductions in total and LDL cholesterol. These positive effects were noted when studying the risk for heart disease in #healthy people and those with #diabetes or glucose intolerance.
Chromium diminishes carb cravings 

If you are like a lot of people, you might have a compelling and recurring hunger for carbohydrate-rich foods. Cravings for starchy and sugar-laden foods are common and are a type of addiction....so glad I broke my addiction

Truth

Don’t confuse #Plexus with other companies... You'll want to know the truth rather than assume! The deeper into my studies I go, the more I am amazed at how the products get at the root cause of our health issues!

This is why we love what we do and the products we have!

Truth: We don’t have an #energy drink...we have a pink drink that helps maintain healthy blood sugars, helps maintain healthy ...blood pressure, and helps maintain healthy cholesterol and lipid levels without pumping you full of stimulants. And now we have an energy supplement that doesn’t have the crashes from the crazy amounts of sugars or caffeine, and it is #natural and clinically tested.

Truth: Our #growth is not skyrocketing because of weight loss pills; it is because we have products - like a probiotic that is incredibly effective and restores proper intestinal balance. We also have a magnesium supplement that oxygenates the entire body and cleanses the gastrointestinal tract. One of the awesome side effects of both of these is weight loss.

Truth: We don’t have an overwhelmingly large #supplement line...we have 16 power-packed products that are plant, vitamin, mineral and herb based and contain ZERO artificial sweeteners, GMO’s, dyes or toxins.

That is what Plexus is about! It is about WELLNESS, about feeling good again, and about living your life to the fullest!

7 Ways to Keep Healthy Habits from Hibernating

As the weather begins to drop from fun to frigid, the motivation to keep healthy habits begins to tail off. Next thing you know, it’s been weeks since your last workout and you may or may not have just purchased your favorite treat at the grocery store.

Although it’s tempting to welcome the winter season with an increase in Netflix and naps, there are plenty of activities in and around the house to help you stay healthy.

Exercising to increase your heart rate, eating more fruits and vegetables to combat fatty holiday foods, and spending time in the sun can yield great results for your health. If office hours or other responsibilities prevent time in the sun, Plexus XFactor™ Family Chewables provide 1000 IUs of Vitamin D, so you can get all of the necessary nutrients this winter.^*

No need to write your New Year’s resolution to reclaim your healthy routines. Here are seven easy-to-follow suggestions to ensure your healthy habits don’t hibernate this winter.

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Holiday Foods That Aid in Gut Health

If the holidays throw your bathroom habits out of whack, don’t worry. You’re not the only one.
After all, what better time for tummy trouble than when the whole family and guests are sharing just one bathroom? Or at a corporate holiday party when the representatives from human resources is watching? ‘Tis the season of gurgling stomachs and hurried pleas to be excused from the table.

There is good news

Plexus TriPlex^™ is your gut’s new best friend. It’s the safe, healthy way to improve your gut health and feel better overall.^*

Your digestive tract gets hit by harmful substances every single day—from your food choices to a lack of sufficient exercise, to even the air and environment around you. Without a fiber-rich diet and more exercise, you’re going to end up with those digestive problems nobody wants: bloating, discomfort, and an overall “blah” feeling.

What poor eating habits screw up, they can also set right. Sneaking these foods into your holiday diet can help keep things regular.

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Some chicken and collard greens

The high-fiber veggies that show up in snack platters on the buffet table or in your green bean casserole keep things moving along through your digestive tract and, soak up excess water from your colon and intestines—to keep things from moving too quickly. Additional sources of veggie fiber include roasted Brussels sprouts and cauliflower mashed potatoes—half potatoes and half cauliflower.

Enjoy visions of sugar plums

The bowls of dried fruit and nuts you set out for your next party are more than a formality. Dried dates, figs, prunes—especially prunes—apricots, and raisins are high in fiber and contain sorbitol—a natural laxative.

Bring some corn for popping

Feel free to snack on that popcorn you’re stringing for garland. Or, to enjoy the popcorn tin your neighbors dropped off.
Popcorn is low in calories and a whole grain—known for being effective at alleviating constipation¹. In addition, three cups of air-popped popcorn contain three grams of dietary fiber at only 93 calories.

Forget figgy pudding, bring us the probiotics

Our guts are colonized by millions of friendly bacteria—such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium longum—that keep us regular². Show your intestines a little love during the holiday season by adding probiotic foods, like yogurt, to your feast.

Sneak yogurt into your holiday cannoli recipe by mixing Greek or plain yogurt with ricotta cheese.
Or, substitute the sour cream in your Ambrosia with strawberry yogurt for an added tang.

Yogurt isn’t the only probiotic food out there either. Mix nutty-tasting tempeh (fermented soy beans) into any vegetarian dish that calls for tofu, or start your meal with a bowl of steaming miso soup (miso is a fermented paste made of grains). Or go the full-on savory route by incorporating fermented sauerkraut or kimchi into one of your courses.

Traditional superfoods

Keep your microbes happy. Jerusalem artichokes, garlic, leeks, onions, scallions, asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and snow peas are rich in prebiotics which act as nourishment for the friendly bacteria in your intestines^3,4,5.

Cooked onions are great for your internal flora, as is raw jicama—which makes a great finger food or salad topping. And, berries are prebiotics—look for them to make an appearance in holiday pies or with your yogurt.

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No matter what it is you’re eating, all things in moderation help keep your intestines happy. Mix gut-friendly foods with your usual diet and keep drinking lots of water, to send your gut the message that all is well and operations should continue as normal.

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References
¹ W. J. Dahl and M. L. Stewart (2015). “Position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: Health Implications of Dietary Fiber.” Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2212267215013866
² Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada. Recent developments in intestinal magnesium absorption. 2008 Mar;24(2):230-5. doi: 10.1097/MOG.0b013e3282f37b59. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18301276
³ Jovanovic-Malinovska R, Kuzmanova S, Winkelhausen E. Oligosaccharide profile in fruits and vegetables as sources of prebiotics and functional foods. International Journal of Food Properties. 2014;7: 949-965. http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10942912.2012.680221?needAccess=true&journalCode=ljfp20
⁴ Muir JG, R Rose R, Rosella O, et al. Measurement of short-chain carbohydrates in common Australian vegetables and fruits by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). J. Agric. Food Chem. 2009, 57:554–565. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19123815
⁵ Muir JG, Shepherd SJ, Rosella O, et al. Fructan and free fructose content of common Australian vegetables and fruit. J Agric Food Chem. 2007 Aug 8;55(16):6619-27. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17625872

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Plexus 96® Spiced Cranberry Protein Shake

If holiday sweets have gotten the best of you, maybe it’s time to spice things up. Cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth to this creamy and filling protein shake. Plexus 96® Vanilla whey protein powder is gluten free, 100 percent vegetarian, non-GMO, and features more than 20 vitamins and minerals. Paired with the antioxidant power1 of cranberries, our spiced cranberry protein shake makes for a super healthy breakfast, lunch, or snack.

Plexus 96® Spiced Cranberry Protein Shake

Serves 1
Prep time: 4 minutes
Cook time: 1 minute
Gluten free, Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 packet Plexus 96® Chocolate
• 8 ounces sugar-free cranberry juice
• 1 banana
• ¼ cup cranberries
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• 6 ice cubes

Directions

Add all ingredients to blender. Blend until smooth. Garnish with cranberries (optional).

References
1 http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/cranberries-year-round-superfood

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Why You Should Start Your Weight Loss Resolution Now

New Year’s has long been the traditional time for making health- and fitness-related lifestyle changes. But, what if you started making those choices before the holidays?
A study recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine1 showed that most of us are at our healthiest—and leanest—before the holidays. If you get started now, by the time New Year’s rolls around, you’ll be way ahead of the game—instead of trying to make up for weight gain during the holidays.

Resolutions can bust stress

Beating the scale, or your personal best in the weight room or at the track, isn’t the only reason to start your healthy resolutions now. The healthy habits you start now might just be the glue that helps you hold it together during the holidays. (Even if this is your favorite time of the year, and you really do love dealing with Uncle Bob, the upheaval is still stressful.)
The best healthy habits are the ones you keep long-term. Or, that you look forward to. Your holiday self-care plans don’t have to be big and spectacular and should include flexibility to accommodate for the changes of the season.
Taking a brisk walk around the block to visit with relatives as they arrive is a great way to stay healthy, keep your stress levels down, and get in some quality family time. What about challenging everybody to a fun game of paintball (how’s that for a way to blow off holiday stress), a 5k race (Turkey Trot anyone?), or bumper cars: home team vs. visiting relatives?

Build momentum

If you struggling with your weight, you’re probably worried about packing on extra pounds during the holidays. Instead of stressing about your weight, along with all the additional stress the season naturally brings, set yourself up for success by building healthy habits now—this way they’ll be locked in by the holidays.
Enter Plexus TriPlex™.
Plexus Slim®, BioCleanse, and ProBio 5 combine to optimize your health where it counts, in your gut. And, TriPlex helps with weight loss too. In a large scale, independent clinical study, TriPlex was shown to help participants lose weight safely.* TriPlex now and you’ll be on your way come Jan. 1.
What happens if you slip up?
It happens to everybody. Because you’ve started so far in advance, it’ll be easier to get back on track. Those who haven’t established healthy habits heading into the holiday season run the risk of slip-ups becoming a habit themselves.

Explore other resolutions

Weight loss isn’t the only New Year’s resolution you can carry into your pre-holiday resolutions. If you’ve ever dreamed of resolving to do good for others, the holidays truly are the perfect time to get started—especially if you have kids. What better lesson in “sharing is caring” could you offer than volunteering to help out in a soup kitchen or gathering care packages for a local homeless shelter?

Now’s the time to be the best you

It’s cliché to say you’ll never be younger than you are in this moment, but it’s true. The minute you start thinking of life in those terms, it makes it a little easier to carpe your diem—seize the moment and be the best you possible every day. We think that’s what should be at the heart of every healthy resolution.
Resolutions shouldn’t be about redeeming yourself from the perceived sins of a holiday season past. They should focus on the wonderful qualities and abilities you want to highlight in yourself, or that you may be nurturing for the first time.
There’s no reason to wait, and every reason to get started right now.

References
¹ http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMc1602012

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Tips for Eating Out During The Holidays

As lovely as it is to sit down to a home-cooked holiday meal, many people find themselves eating out more often during the holidays. As we fill our days with shopping, decorating, and planning, the convenience of takeout and restaurants is too obvious to ignore. Add to that the countless parties and events that are catered or hosted at restaurants, and we find that eating out is all too prevalent throughout the holiday season.
Luckily, all this eating out doesn’t have to be the downfall of your health (or weight). We’ve come up with a few tips that will help you continue to watch what you eat, even as you eat out more often during this festive time of year.

Drink water

This might be easier said than done, especially if you’ve got any lavish, open-bar parties on your agenda. However, drinking water won’t only be easier on your wallet; it will also save you a ton of calories. If you’re grabbing fast food in the middle of a busy shopping day, opt for water instead of a 32 oz Coke, and save yourself more than 350 calories. Skip the martini at the office party and you’ll have over 120 calories to spare.
Drinking your calories adds up fast, so drink water to help keep things under control. (Bonus: Drinking a glass of water before a meal can help you feel fuller, faster—meaning you’ll eat less overall. Double bonus: Add Plexus Slim to your water and drink it 15-30 minutes before you eat.)

Make pre-planned decisions

This is a little lifehack that can help you as you’re trying to watch what you eat during the holidays. Before you go out to a restaurant, look up the menu and decide exactly what you’re going to order. Also make decisions about what you’re going to drink, how much you’re going to eat, and whether or not you’ll get an appetizer or dessert.
If you’re going to a party, decide how many finger foods you’ll eat and how many drinks you’ll have. Maybe you could even set a time limit for yourself, e.g. “I won’t eat or drink anything after 7:30 p.m.”
Making these decisions ahead of time will help you avoid making rash (and unhealthy) decisions in the moment. If you really want to stick to your pre-planned decisions, share them with someone else and ask them to help you stay committed.

Portion control

You don’t have to avoid all those super delicious foods when you eat out, but you should at least practice some portion control. Don’t opt for larger sides at fast food restaurants; the regular size has more than enough calories anyway. When at a sit down restaurant, ask for a to-go box right from the beginning, and when they bring you your food, box up half of it right away. This will help you control how much you’re eating, even if you don’t want to worry about what you’re eating.

Healthier options

Many restaurants are well aware of the growing demand for healthier options on their menus. This is a very good thing when you’re trying to keep things in control during the holidays. When perusing your menu, look first to see if there is a “lighter option” menu at the restaurant. These are specially marked menus that are designed to offer lighter or healthier alternatives to the more mainstream options. Many of these menus often include a calorie count for each dish as well.
If you’re sticking to the “original” menu, try to at least choose healthier side options, like a vegetable or salad, instead of starchy or fried foods (french fries, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, etc.). If these side options aren’t specifically listed on the menu, it’s still worth asking your waiter or waitress if they’re available.
The holidays should be an enjoyable time, and you certainly don’t want to waste a chance to enjoy yourself by constantly worrying about what you should eat, how much you’ve eaten, or how much weight you’ve gained. Instead, follow these simple tips for eating out during the holidays, and keep your health (and your weight) in check, with minimal effort and maximum enjoyment.

10 Gifts for Your Kids That Promote a Healthy Lifestyle

If you haven’t been in a department store or seen a TV commercial recently, you may be unaware that the holidays are approaching. Or, you’re in denial.
To create a healthier, happier life for you and your family give holiday gifts that encourage your kiddos to develop the healthy habits they’ll rely on for the rest of their lives. Whether you’re a last minute shopper or an early gift buyer, we’ve got some suggestions as you’re making your list—and checking it twice.

1. Bicycle

Bikes are the quintessential Christmas gift for young children, and for good reason. When your child gets a bike, their world expands, both figuratively and literally. Kids don’t intentionally ride their bikes for exercise. They ride bikes to feel the wind on their faces, to go to a friend’s house, and to test their limits. Riding a bike is fun. It just also happens to be a great way to exercise—which they may or may not realize.

2. Sports equipment

Long before they learn the rules of most sports, they throw balls and swing bats with glee—and often little aim.
When you buy sports equipment for your kids, you give them tools for staving off boredom with physical activity. Younger children create their own games. Older kids practice their skills or challenge friends to a game.

3. Mini trampoline

Kids are like energized bunnies—always going and going and going. There are few toys that display the endless energy of children like trampolines.
For families who don’t have the outdoor space, or for parents concerned about the safety of the larger models, small trampolines are now being sold with children in mind. They include a bar attachment for kids to hold while jumping. In addition to providing extra stability, this bar attachment gives kids the opportunity to bounce hard without the risk of flying off.

4. Interactive video games

Surprised to see video games on this list? Video games are often lumped in with other forms of screen time when we talk about kids—for good reason. Not all video games are created equal.
Interactive video games require players to stand up and mimic an in-game character’s actions. Kiddos jump, dance, swing, and play their way to healthy. These games are a great way to encourage physical activity when it’s cold outside.

5. Healthy cookbooks and cooking supplies

Is your dinner table a battleground? Are wars waged over finishing green beans? Or, adding extra butter to Brussels sprouts?
Healthy eating habits are difficult to establish in young children. Food resistance is one of the first ways children demonstrate their independence. By giving your kids the tools they need to help in planning and preparing their own food, you give them another way to assert their independence at mealtime. In addition to encouraging children’s healthy eating habits, teaching children how to cook is a valuable life skill.
If your kids are too young to join you in the kitchen, how about some fake (healthy) food and a play kitchen set? These are a positive way to introduce your toddler to fruits and veggies, and the joy of cooking.

6. Portion-friendly plates

It is no secret that oversized portions contribute to obesity.¹ Help your kids learn proper portions with portion conscious plates. Many portion plates have physical dividers to teach kids what a healthy portion looks like. There are even versions that have removable dividers, so older kids can take responsibility for their portions.

7. Every Kid in a Park pass

If you have a fourth-grader in your home, you and your family can get an Every Kid in a Park pass from the National Park Service for free. This pass is valid for a year and gives your family the opportunity to explore hundreds of our national parks, lands, and waterways.

8. Activity tracker

Wearable fitness trackers aren’t just for adults anymore. Help your kids develop the habit of daily movement with an activity tracker geared for them. For younger kids, consider a tracker that focuses more on encouraging activities than step counts. Fitness trackers help adults be more aware of their own activity levels and they can do the same for kids.

9. Puzzles

Health and wellness in the body isn’t sustainable without health and wellness in the mind. Puzzles, building blocks, and other traditional toys encourage healthy minds. When children play with these types of toys, they learn how to problem solve, plan, and create.

10. Art Supplies

Children who regularly create art are more likely to be successful in other subjects at school.² Creative, artistic activities help kids develop motor skills, practice decision making, and encourages language development. Additionally, creating art can have a positive impact on a child’s social and emotional well-being. When children create, it boosts their self-confidence and helps with non-verbal communication.This holiday season, give your children the gift of lifelong health. Presents that encourage healthy habits make it easy to feel good about giving. Children learn best by example. Model healthy habits, not just during the holiday season, but all year long.

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References
¹ Ledikwe JH, Ello-Martin JA, Rolls BJ. Portion sizes and the obesity epidemic. Journal of Nutrition. 2005; 135(4):905-9.
² Deasy, Richard J. (editor) (2002), Critical Links: Learning in the Arts and Student Achievement and Social Development, Washington, DC: AEP.

Survive The Holidays, 8 Strategies for Partying Healthier

Whether you’re attending a black-tie, corporate holiday gathering or an ugly Christmas sweater with your friends, parties are a fun way to connect with family and friends.
They’re also known for being synonymous with excess. Overeating and overdrinking are common and can be difficult to avoid without a plan. Here are our top eight strategies for surviving the holiday season with your health goals intact.

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1. Start with Plexus Block™

It’s the holiday season, when your carrots and sweet potatoes are as candied as your cookies and sticking to your healthy habits is a daily test of willpower. If you find yourself indulging in a small slice of cranberry Christmas cake, you may want to consider taking Plexus Block^™ first.
The excess sugar and carbs in our holiday favorites create excess glucose. The same glucose, which can be stored as fat. And, of course, excess fat can lead to weight gain.⁴ Block contains natural ingredients, clinically-tested to work immediately to block the absorption of up to 48 percent of the carbs and sugars in your meal—without blocking the absorption of any beneficial nutrients.^*

2. Eat before the party

Showing up to a holiday party with an empty stomach is a bad idea. It’s hard to make good decisions when we’re hungry. Set yourself up for success by eating a healthy meal before you head to the party. You’ll still be able to enjoy the company of friends and family and can indulge in favorite foods. Portion control is more manageable if you don’t feel inordinately hungry when you arrive.

3. Peruse, then choose

Before you fill your plate, take the time to inventory all your options. The vegetable side dish smothered in cheese may be easier to resist when you know there’s a plate of fresh salad further down the table.

4. Start with the best stuff

After surveying the buffet table, eat the healthiest foods first. We’re more likely to continue eating the foods we start with at a buffet style meal.¹ Additionally, when you fill up on the good stuff first, you leave less room for the heavy or high-calorie options available.

5. Use a small plate

Our brain doesn’t completely register that we’re full for about 20 minutes.² When we use smaller plates, we have to return to the buffet for seconds. The wait generally causes a bit of time to pass and lessens the chance that we’ll continue to eat after we’re already full.

6. Keep track of what you eat

Parties seem to encourage mindless eating. The best way to counter consuming extra calories without realizing it is to keep track of what you are eating. You could write your food down in a notebook or use a food tracker app designed for this very purpose. Whichever way you choose, taking the time to make note of what you eat can help prevent you from eating more than you realize. 

7. Avoid drinking extra calories

Sugary punches, soda pop, and alcoholic beverages are extra calorie villains. Even people who don’t regularly drink soda or wine may make an exception for the holidays. Start the evening with a low calorie, non-alcoholic drink. Then drink one glass of water for every sugary or alcoholic beverage. In addition to limiting your calorie intake, you’ll be preventing dehydration—a major factor in hangovers.

8. Get enough sleep

Celebrations and holiday plays and shopping ‘til we drop. Getting adequate sleep seems like wishful thinking during the holiday season.

Sleep deprivation can impede your ability to make good decisions.³ When we’re tired, we’re more likely to choose instant gratification over long-term satisfaction. High-calorie foods and alcohol are fairly standard at holiday parties. Consistently getting enough sleep can prevent you from making poor choices as a result of sleep deprivation.Healthy eating during the holidays isn’t impossible.

Summary

These strategies can help you enjoy holiday parties while staying on track with your goals for health and wellness. If you slip-up, remember you can always start again. Make it a happy and healthy holiday season.

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References
¹ Wansink B, Hanks AS. Slim by design: serving healthy foods first in buffet lines improves overall meal selection. PLoS One. 2013 Oct 23;8(10):e77055. http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0077055
² http://www.livestrong.com/article/480254-how-long-does-it-take-your-brain-to-register-that-the-stomach-is-full/ 
³ Alhola, P., & Polo-Kantola, P. (2007). Sleep deprivation: Impact on cognitive performance. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 3(5), 553–567. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2656292/
⁴ Roy MC, Anguenotb R, Fillionb C et al. Effect of a commercially-available algal phlorotannins extract on digestive enzymes and carbohydrate absorption in vivo. Food Res International. 2011;44:3026-3029. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0963996911004637

Festive and Refreshing Non-Alcoholic Cocktails for the Holidays

The holiday season is upon us and your social calendar is full.

Festive “mocktails” are tasty and trendy non-alcoholic cocktails sure to delight. We’ve created three deliciously boozeless drinks that perfectly complement the natural berry flavor of Plexus Slim®.

Wrap your hands around these non-alcoholic beauties featuring holiday flavors like cranberries and ginger. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, the designated driver, or a non-drinker you’ll love these options.

9 Healthy Elf on the Shelf Ideas

If you have young children, chances are your family’s Elf on the Shelf scout elf has returned for another December full of nightly adventures that turn into hysterical antics. You’ve probably turned your sink into a makeshift hot tub full of marshmallows, taken tiny selfies with the squad, and posed a syrup-infused late-night movie marathon. Frankly by now—especially if this is the second or third year your scout elf’s come to stay—you may be short on ideas.

You work hard year-long to encourage a healthy lifestyle for your family. You set a good example. You learn kid-friendly, healthy recipes. So when your kids indulge around the holidays you look the other way—as long as you can steer them back come January.

What if your scout elf could back you up? Maybe remind them that he or she lives a healthy lifestyle when not scouting—one in which carrots and activities are the norm and cookie binges happen on occasion.

We’ve put together this list of nine health-themed ideas for your Elf on the Shelf.

1. Elf on the Shelf makes a Plexus 96® Vanilla shake—and a mess!

Mom will be so excited Elf on the Shelf made her Plexus 96® Vanilla shake. She totally won’t mind the mess.

2. Elf on the Shelf packs a healthy lunch.

Your kiddos’ll want to eat their healthy—and gluten free—lunch when they see that Elf on the Shelf packed it

3. Elf on the Shelf builds a snow(?)man.

Silly Elf on the Shelf, don't play with your food!

4. Elf on the Shelf brushes his teeth.

Super important after he binges on all those sugary treats. Your kids can learn proper brushing technique alongside their scout elf.

5. Elf on the Shelf takes a walk.

Fresh air is important—especially during the winter. Maybe your scout elf can take a walk with Barbie and Taffy. Don’t forget the pooper scooper!

6. Elf on the Shelf goes to the doctor.

If your little one’s nervous about their next doctor appointment, remind them how Elf on the Shelf was so brave. No tears for this scout elf!

7. Elf on the Shelf tries out for the team.

If your kids struggle with any of these, this idea encompasses three lessons for the price of one.

• The importance of getting off the couch and moving those feet.
• Being a good sport
• Being brave enough to try something new

8. Elf on the Shelf skateboards.

Don’t forget his helmet!

9. Elf on the Shelf does downward dog.

Who can pass up a quick yoga class with the Avengers. Looks like Thor’s been working on his technique.

How to Give the Gift of Health

Gifts related to health and wellness are usually well-intentioned, but they aren’t always well-received. The gift of exercise equipment, a gym membership, or a diet book can often be misconstrued to be an insult to the recipient’s lifestyle or appearance. In short—it can make you look insensitive.
Thankfully, that doesn’t have to be the case. The truth is, these gifts are thoughtful and useful and may be just what your loved one is looking for. So how do you give such gifts without offending anyone?
Well. We can’t guarantee anything, but we do have a few tips. Read on to learn how to give health-related gifts in a way that won’t be taken as an insult.

Talk about it ahead of time

If you can, talk about the gift ahead of time to make it seem more natural and thoughtful. You could say something like, “wow, we really need a nicer scale in this bathroom; I’ve seen ones that can even calculate body fat!” Or, “have you seen those new fitness tracker watches? I’ve been thinking of getting one. They look so cool!”
By bringing up the possible gift in normal conversation, it’ll seem like you bought the gift because it was something you had talked about and showed excitement over, rather than you thought the recipient really “needed” it.

Point out the features

Instead of letting that gym membership speak for itself (which could be a really bad thing), point out the great features of the gym—its convenient location, its great child care, or its free group classes.
Don’t just give them some free weights and an at-home workout DVD. Instead, point out how this is your favorite DVD and you thought it would be perfect for her! You know how busy she is and this makes it easy to get in a quick workout.
If you make it more about the benefits and not about the weight loss, they will be less likely to take offense to your gift.

Make it for both of you

This works especially well for a partner or roommate, or someone you see often. Buy a health-conscious gift that benefits both of you. Get a gym membership for two, a blender with some protein shake mix, or a cookbook with healthy recipes. This way, the gift won’t be taken personally, since you are admitting that you need it, too. (If you go this route, make sure you get the person a separate, “just for them” gift as well. You don’t want them to feel cheated out of a personal present!)

Package it

Soften your approach by packaging health-conscious gifts with other things. You might create a “spa basket” including pampering items like lotions and scrubs, as well as a fat burning supplement or beauty vitamin. You could create a kitchen or food-based package, complete with their favorite snacks, a fun kitchen gadget, and dietary supplements that block the absorption of up to 48 percent of carbs and sugars, or a system for managing gut health. If you make the health-conscious or weight-conscious product part of the gift, rather than the main focus, it will blend in more as a part of a whole, rather than a statement of its own.

The gift of health is one of the most thoughtful, supportive things you can give to a loved one during the holidays, but you want to make sure it is received correctly. Ultimately, you have to decide what will help your gift be received in the right spirit. Be courteous, be loving, plan ahead, and your gift will undoubtedly be a hit!

Gift Ideas for Health and Happiness

 

The holidays are particularly magical: the anticipation, the lights, the treats, the music, and of course—the presents.
Gifts get a little different as you get older, of course. (Let’s face it: unwrapping a toaster will never quite be the same as unwrapping that shiny new bike bugged your parents about for months!) Fortunately, we’ve rounded up a few gift ideas that, while technically made for grownups, are perfect for bringing out the kid in you this holiday season.

Remote control…everything

There’s nothing like getting behind the wheel (well, remote) of a helicopter, race car, or airplane to bring out the kid in you. There are plenty of options available that are just plain fun, like these super affordable mini quadcopters, or this sophisticated all-terrain monster truck. There are even options that will let you go head-to-head with your friends, like these surprisingly fun RC bumper cars, or these battling drones.
Of course, there are a few more practical options, too. Many drones now have built-in photography capabilities, making them great options for photographers and videographers. And some robot vacuums also work with compatible remotes or mobile phone apps, so you might actually enjoy cleaning your floors for once. Function, meet fun.

Coloring books

They’re not just for kids anymore. Coloring books for adults have really caught on in the past few years, and for good reason. Many adults are turning to coloring to help relieve stress and improve focus. There are coloring books full of mandalas, animals, inspirational quotes, pop culture, and even humor. Staying inside the lines is optional.
And don’t forget your coloring tools! Classic crayons are always a popular choice, but a more grown-up approach might be to splurge for some artist-quality colored pencils, or smooth flowing gel pens. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to be creating works of art in no time with this fun, youthful gift.

Trampolines

As a kid, a trampoline was a gift that would probably keep you busy all day. As an adult, a trampoline can be an excellent addition to your home workout equipment. Whether it’s a full-size trampoline that your whole family can enjoy together, a simple personal trampoline for getting in a little cardio, or a full-blown trampoline workout system that gives you a variety of options, a trampoline is a fun, unexpected gift that could change the way you think about at-home exercise.

Health and energy

Most adults have envied a child’s energy at one point or another. Wouldn’t you love to be able to give yourself the gift of that youthful vitality?
Okay, so it’s not exactly possible to bottle that up. But there are health products out there that are specifically formulated to increase your energy and leave you feeling (almost) young again. Plexus EDGE^™, for example, provides healthy, sustained energy while enhancing concentration and improving your mood. Plexus TriPlex^™ is another great option; it promotes gut health and helps to improve all those tummy troubles that seem to get worse with age (and the holidays). ^1*
Don’t think that your age means you can’t feel energized, comfortable, and healthy this holiday season. It really is possible to give yourself (or someone you love) the gift of more energy!
So what’s on your wish list this year? Before you resign yourself to receiving a new pair of slippers, think about how you could unwrap the kid in you with one of these fun gift ideas for the young-at-heart.

References
¹ D’Souza, A. L. (2007). Ageing and the gut. Postgraduate Medical Journal, 83(975), 44–53. http://doi.org/10.1136/pgmj.2006.049361

Keep Your Gut Health in Check for a Happy Holiday Season

 

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” So many parties to host, turkeys to roast, and endless hours shopping for everyone on your list.

Oh bah, humbug!

Getting caught up in the to-do’s of creating holiday cheer can leave us feeling grumpy and overwhelmed. We may even find ourselves expressing a little scrooge-like behavior.

Holly jolly holiday

Your gut’s happiness has a huge influence on your mood. In fact, your gut is responsible for 90 percent of your body’s serotonin—a hormone linked to happiness. When serotonin levels are low, your mood can become gloomy.
This holiday season, take a moment to think about your gut health. Stress, poor nutrition, antibiotics, and high sugar consumption can all affect its happiness. Your gut needs nutritional support to get rid of unwanted substances and promote a healthy balance of good bacteria that can help elevate your happy holiday attitude.^1,2

Add a little holiday cheer

The holidays can be rough on our gut as we’re tempted by an assortment of holiday fixings that leave us bloated, uncomfortable, and unhappy.
Fight off the negative influences that upset your gut and mood during the holiday season. Plexus TriPlex^TM is a happy holiday answer for your gut, as it helps remove harmful microbes, replenishes the gut with five beneficial probiotics, and rebalances how your body feels. The TriPlex combo includes Bio Cleanse, ProBio 5, and Slim to support a healthy gut, joyful mood, and overall wellness.^*

Scope out the party food

When we stress during the holidays, we’re more likely to binge on not-so-healthy food choices that leave our gut and mood out of whack. Before you load up on tempting holiday foods, think about how you’ll feel after eating two slices of pie, three servings of artichoke dip, and four cups of eggnog. . .okay, that may be a bit exaggerated. But your body will thank you if you consider healthy food choices and portion sizes.

Probiotics, please!

If you’re cranky, add probiotics. Probiotics are good microorganisms that provide health benefits to support gut health, overall wellness, and your mood. These awesome microorganisms are packed with health benefits.
Your gut health is directly related to your cognitive health and mood.^3,4 Add in plain yogurt for a probiotic-packed breakfast or take a probiotic supplement—ProBio 5 anyone?—to make sure your gut flora is in check through the holiday season.^*

Sleep like you mean it

It may be the busiest time of year, but find time to sleep. If you’re short on sleep, you may feel grumpy, anxious, and find it difficult to cope with stress.^5,6 To add fuel to the fire, sleep deprivation can lead to greater cravings of unhealthy foods that upset your gut. . . and aggravate a sour mood.^7,8
No matter what comes your way this holiday season, don’t let the winter blues and holiday stress turn you into a scrooge! Keep your gut healthy and your happiness will feel elevated too.

References
1 Logan AC, Katzman M. Major depressive disorder: probiotics may be an adjuvant therapy. Medical Hypotheses. 2005 Dec 31;64(3):533-8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15617861
2 McKean J, Naug H, Nikbakht E, et al. Probiotics and Subclinical Psychological Symptoms in Healthy Participants: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 2016 Nov 14. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27841940
3 Dinan TG, Stanton C, Cryan JF. Psychobiotics: a novel class of psychotropic. Biological Psychiatry. 2013 Nov 15;74(10):720-6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23759244
4 Steenbergen L, Sellaro R, van Hemert S, et al. A randomized controlled trial to test the effect of multispecies probiotics on cognitive reactivity to sad mood. Brain, Behavior, and Immunity. 2015 Aug 31;48:258-64. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0889159115000884
5 Riemann D, Berger M, Voderholzer U. Sleep and depression—results from psychobiological studies: an overview. Biological Psychology. 2001 Aug 31;57(1):67-103. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11454435
6 Talbot LS, McGlinchey EL, Kaplan KA, et al. Sleep deprivation in adolescents and adults: changes in affect. Emotion. 2010 Dec;10(6):831. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21058849
7 Simon SL, Field J, Miller LE, et al. Sweet/dessert foods are more appealing to adolescents after sleep restriction. PloS One. 2015 Feb 23;10(2):e0115434. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2570686
8 Leone V, Gibbons SM, Martinez K, et al. Effects of diurnal variation of gut microbes and high-fat feeding on host circadian clock function and metabolism. Cell Host & Microbe. 2015 May 13;17(5):681-9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25891358

FDA Approved ?!?

Did you know that the FDA doesn't require any sort of studies on supplements.? This means basically any supplement product can promote weight loss and say they're "safe" with no science. This is why ingredients are so important for you to investigate on your own... But guess what?!?!?

Plexus has studies anyway... Why? Just so you'd understand how important a balanced body is, so you'd have information readily available... Because YOU are worth the research.

They did a scientific, clinical study on Plexus Slim and TriPlex. It was double blind (the participants and administers had no idea what they were getting), multi center, placebo controlled, randomized study with 175 participants.
(AKA: they weren't messing around!)
✔️RESULTS: Slim treatment only group lost an average of 5.04 pounds and the slim placebo group lost an average of 3.1 pounds.
The TriPlex group lost about 7.02 pounds, while the placebo group showed a slight increase in weight.
They've got the formulations right folks! Don't waste your time or money on something that's not the real deal.
And the weight loss? It's actually just a side effect of a healthy gut and balanced blood sugar, using plant based formulations.
It is so much more weight! It's whole body.

What makes PLEXUS Different ...

WARNING! This info is only for my friends that are wanting a change and are stuck in the humdrum....

🎅🏻🎄🎅🏻🎄🎅🏻🎄🎅🏻🎄🎅🏻🎄
Ho Ho Ho - curious minds what to know?
What makes PLEXUS DIFFERENT?...

HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED IF YOU ARE IN THE RIGHT BUSINESS??? HAVE YOU EVER ASKED YOURSELF WHAT MAKES PLEXUS DIFFERENT THAN SOME OTHER MLMS??? HERE ARE SOME ANSWERS!

Everyone------
P-L-E-X-U-S IS WHERE IT'S AT!!!!!

There are so many MLM's out there, right? You may be asking yourself what is different about us than about them?!?! Let's go over what separates our (plexus) Comp Plan from others?

🎉 No inventory! Hallelujah. We aren't forced to have parties or make a huge monthly purchase!

💰 11 ways to make money allows you to work your business several different ways to find what is best for YOU! You can get strictly customers for a bigger upfront income. You can strictly build a team for a bigger long term, residual income that grows and builds. Or you can take advantage of both customers and ambassadors, getting that bigger upfront income AND the long term residual income! Plus, I love that each of our team members do not have to be business focused! We have a place for wholesale ambassadors, people that just want to get their products paid for, and people that want to work the business!

💊 Get paid in MONEY, not products!!!! You guys! It is so important that we get paid in $$$ and not products. If we want to spend our money on more products, then we can make that decision ourselves!!!!

👭 Profit sharing option from your first day!!!! Plexus redistributes HALF of its monthly profits back to the ambassadors!

🗓 Opportunity to earn weekly and monthly checks!

7️⃣ Earn points and income for SEVEN levels! So it isn't just about who you know, but it's about who you know, who they know, who they know, who they know, who they know, who they know, and who they know!!!!!!!! That's a lot of people!

🌟You KEEP your leaders. Did you know that with some other companies you actually lose your leaders and their teams when they hit a certain rank? How disappointing! I can't imagine what a horrible team culture that breeds. With Plexus you get to keep your leaders, empower them, work with them, and be true business PARTNERS with them!

👏🏼 Low buy in! It costs hundreds or thousands or dollars to join most companies. It's only $34.95 to join Plexus & they have the opportunity to buy a Welcome Pack (includes product) at even lower than wholesale price ($99 or $199)

🇨🇦🇺🇸🇦🇺🇳🇿No territories. Did you know that some people can ONLY sell to people who live in a certain mile radius of them? Ludicrous!!!

⚖ NOT a Binary plan. (Binary plans are where you build from 2 levels and only paid on where it's even. Example... one level has 60,000 of sales and one level has 10,000 in sales. Only paid on 10,000 because that's where it's even.) With Plexus you are paid on unlimited legs, 7 levels deep without them all having to have x amount of value each.

👫 Your spouse can join under you, allowing you to work the business together & to increase your income!!!!!! Your business can also be willed to your family!!

👌🏼 No team volume quotas

👉🏽 You can pass your sponsor in rank!

💎 When you reach the top you can re-enter under yourself, earn on both legs, and go back to the top all over again!!!

💡15-25% commission!!!!!

🍒Consumable products that people need to purchase monthly! This is HUGE!

💥Our products change LIVES, transform health. We see Plexus babies, fewer Doctor visits, better health, fewer medications, more energy (#1 health crisis in America) & it helps us fit in our jeans. This isn't a fad. It isn't something that is going away. Plexus is here to stay and will continue to gain new products with major impact!

💵 Opportunity to earn MAJOR income! I often hear of top leaders in other companies making $25-50k a year, and it makes me giggle. Don't get me wrong, that is good money, but Plexus offers SO MUCH more than that! Our top leaders are making $100-400k a year on AVERAGE, and there are lots of them making that amount. (I even know someone making over $200k a MONTH with Plexus!!!!!!!!! 😮) Many people earn GREAT money (life changing amounts) even as a brand new or Silver ambassador!!!!

Clearly, we've got it going on at Plexus!!!!