Best Organic Goat Milk Baby Formula

Top 5 Best Goat Milk Baby Formula Options Reviewed

November 27, 2021

When I found out I was having twins, I knew I’d have to have a plan for feeding them. I wanted to breastfeed them but I knew it was a possibility that I may not be able to produce enough for both. My two previous children were very sensitive to cow’s milk so I knew this time around I wanted to use goat milk formula in between breast milk donations.

In my search for goat milk formula, I knew I wanted the highest standard possible. But that meant most likely finding something not sourced in the United States. Without going into great detail, and in my personal opinion the US doesn’t have great quality formula because of several ingredients they use that are not healthy options. Have you read the back of a formula can recently? Did you know many have the first ingredient as Corn syrup? Or they include artificial ingredients or preservatives? It’s not just the ingredients, but it’s the way the ingredients are processed. There ARE better options out there.

I do believe breast milk is the best milk out there, and encourage all mothers to reach out to a lactation specialist if they need help. For my first two babies, I wasn’t able to nurse longer than 6-8 weeks for a multitude of reasons. I didn’t know what I was doing, and I had no idea how to get help. Nowadays, there are so many resources and options for help with nursing/feeding our babies. My lactation specialist (IBCLC) is incredible. She was able to assess my twins, take measurements, weight, check for tongue or lip ties and make so many suggestions to help with nursing. She also helped me with whatever route I wanted to go. I personally wanted to get them as much breast milk as possible and supplement them here and there with goat milk. So she connected me with some local mamas who could donate their precious milk to me. I love how respectful she is no matter which route you choose to go. If you are in need of one and are near the Sacramento area, I highly recommend you contact Shanee with Faithful Lactation Support.

The reality is that there are many moms who cannot produce or provide enough breast milk for their babies given certain circumstances. With me, I was barely producing enough for one of my twins. So it was important to supplement in the best ways possible for my babies.

I did a lot of research and tried many formulas to see how they worked for my boys. I feel like I’ve really narrowed it down to my top five goat milk formula choices that are the best out there and that can be shipped to the US. One of them is good in a pinch if you need to buy it right now. I will outline below and rank them in order of my favorites and why.

Little Oak Goat Milk Formula Ships to United States Organic Non GMO

1. Little Oak Formula

I am obsessed with Little Oak Formula, to say the least. The main reason why they are at the top of my list is that the ingredients are high quality, and convenient to use. This formula is made in New Zealand which is the reason I believe the standards are MUCH better than the US. While not marked as certified organic, most of the whole goat’s milk they use is farmed using organic practices. LittleOak is made from fresh whole goat’s milk straight from their dairy in New Zealand. Starting with fresh milk means less processing, more natural goodness.

PROS:

  • Clean and quality ingredients
  • Non-GMO
  • Ships to the US!
  • There is no palm or soybean oils in it.
  • It dissolves easily
  • Scoops fit easily into Dr. Browns Bottles
  • It is priced well and comparatively to other high quality goat milk formulas.
  • Comes in a convenient pop top container.
  • Easy to travel with. They even offer individual sachets for travel!
  • Multiple stages of formula from newborn to toddler.
  • Amazing customer service and communication.
  • Save money on a subscription vs one time order.

CONS:

  • Not certified organic
  • Label is a bit confusing with different measurements and nutrition info.
  • Due to high demand this has been extremely hard to get. I waited 4-6 weeks for each shipment. (But so worth it!)
  • Use Promo Coupon Code to get a 20% discount for Black Friday: THATFRIDAYFEELING

*Visit Little Oak’s site here. Make sure to click “USD” on the side to let the site know you’re shipping to the Unite States.

Mt Capra Goat Milk Formula Homemade Organic Baby Formula

2. Mt. Capra Formula

My other favorite which is why I listed it second is the Mt. Capra Goat Milk Formula. This is a make at home formula. You simply buy the ingredients from their website (they even have a handy simple starter kit you can purchase with everything in it) and follow their instructions to mix it up. You can prepare it as a dry mix or wet mix. I definitely preferred the dry mix as it lasts longer. I love everything about this company and what they stand for. They are a small organic goat farm in Chehalis Washington. They provide organic whole goat milk for homemade formula. I really love the quality of the ingredients and my boys also did really well on this formula (when Little Oak was back-ordered). In fact, the owner and creator of the company has a Master’s Degree in Clinical Human Nutrition.

He formulated this for his own children but saw a larger need for this organic quality goat milk formula. You will need to add in separate vitamins and minerals once per day to a bottle as well. It’s also fascinating to know that the owner collaborated with a Naturopathic Doctor to create a high-quality children’s multivitamin powder just for this formula.

Another great thing to note about this formula option is you can actually customize it by substituting ingredients individually if your child is gassy or constipated etc. This company runs a Facebook group where you can ask questions anytime and get help with making the formula from home. It is extremely helpful to have that guidance from other parents who are using the same formula. The main reasons why this formula isn’t first on my list is because you obviously have to spend time making it, the residue from the oils/fats are difficult to rinse out of the bottles, and you have to remember to add in the vitamins each day. It’s also a bit harder to travel with this formula because you need access to hot water to melt the formula (the oils) when mixing things together. These things aren’t a deal-breaker at all – but definitely things worth considering.

PROS:

  • Whole fat goat milk (not skim like most companies)
  • Has clean ingredients from a trusted small organic farm.
  • Meets all nutritional criteria.
  • Recipe is adjustable; you can substitute some ingredients if baby has intolerance or other issues.
  • Facebook group with tons of help and guidance. Bounce ideas off of members, get support and chat with parents who have used this formula before.
  • Most affordable out of the options.
  • Very quick shipping from Washington State
  • Great customer service
  • You can order goat milk and goat lactose in bulk 10lb bags.
  • Formulated specifically by a Food Scientist

CONS:

  • You have to mix batches ahead of time. You’ll need a scale to be precise.
  • You need to have hot water on hand to mix the formula then add some cold to top off bottle.
  • You have to add in the multivitamin and probiotics separately in a bottle once per day, and it can be a bit of a hassle as it can get stuck in the nipple.
  • Cleaning bottles is harder/more time consuming with oil residue.
  • You have to measure out and weigh your scoops so you get as close to 30g as possible for an 8oz bottle. I used a scoop that when packed down was 15g for a 4oz bottle.

*This formula has also been known to help babies gain some weight. Especially since you can adjust/substitute some ingredients (with guidance only). If you fit into this category, I’d seriously consider this formula!

*Click here to get $10 off your first purchase of $50 or more with Mt. Capra.

Holle Organic Goat Milk Baby Formula Ships to United States

3. Holle Goat Milk Formula

I came across this formula because I have heard of it before, but wasn’t sure how to get my hands on it. I wanted to try it because it’s made in Germany and has clean quality ingredients. It took me a while to research this one because some formula sites are scams, and I wanted to make sure it was a reputable source. The reason why this one is third on my list is because shipping was expensive for me (although it arrived very quickly). It also was the only one to constipate my boys. This is a great option if you need formula quickly, you’ll see on the site it is expedited shipping. It took 2-3 days to get from Germany to my doorstep, and I was very excited and relieved.

PROS:

  • Nutritionally high quality and meets ingredient criteria.
  • Easy to make a bottle and the scoop fits in the doctor browns bottles.
  • Easy to travel with, small boxes are convenient to pack.
  • Fast and great customer service.
  • They have other brand options on the site.

CONS:

  • The bags inside the boxes are messy. I preferred to pour out the formula into a container.
  • Shipping prices were very expensive from Germany. For expedited shipping I paid $120.
  • The box is hard to read and interpret as it is not in English. There are English measurements on their site you can print off.

* You can purchase this formula on two safe sites I’ve found. The first one here has lightning-fast shipping, but it’s costly. The formula however is less per box and they offer a wholesale pricing option when you buy a pack of 24. I think this one is the better deal, especially if you can go in on it with another mom or two and split shipping.

*The second site is another safe formula site to purchase Holle Goat Milk Formula from. The shipping cost to the US is $9.99 for 7-15 business days or $24.99 for 2-7 business days. The pricing for the boxes looks to be more expensive on here.

Sammys Goat Milk Formula for Infants and Toddlers

4. Sammys Milk

We tried this one briefly and after about 10 bottles decided to shelve it. Sammy’s Milk uses 6 simple, beneficial, and essential ingredients. They use avocado oil for healthy fats and include 23 vitamins and minerals. Although the site says “for your toddler” I compared the nutritional value and percentages and it’s almost identical to the infant formulas. I felt personally it was okay to use given the comparisons being almost the same. The story behind Sammy’s Milk is simple. She wanted to find something that was superior to what was out there. Like I mentioned previously, many formulas are filled with cheap ingredients, soy products, corn syrup, and tons of artificial sweeteners and preservatives. So she came up with this formula; which is very simple! I love the story behind this, plus that everything is non-GMO. The only thing that stopped me from continuing with it was the use of fish oils. It gives it a fishy smell that really bothered me. What was worse was when my boys spit up, it smelled even worse because of the fish oils. However, they do ship quickly, and as a limited-time offer say you can try the milk for free first.

PROS:

  • Simple clean ingredients
  • Quick Shipping
  • Locally Sourced
  • Non-GMO
  • Can try free samples
  • Great customer service

CONS:

  • Not certified organic
  • The DHA Fish oil smells bad
  • Pricey
  • No bulk discounts

*Visit the site here.

Kabrita Goat Milk Formula Review

5. Kabrita Goat Milk Formula

This formula is a local find at whole foods. This formula is okay if you’re in a crazy pinch and need something right now. You can drive to the store and pick it up and use it until your other stash of breast milk or goat milk order comes in. I’ve heard from specialists that this goat milk is okay for babies (even though it says toddlers on it). I don’t love a few of the ingredients in there, but the only reason it made the list is because when you are out of milk and it’s an emergency this is a better option than most on the store shelf.

PROS:

  • Can find it locally at Whole Foods, or on Amazon
  • Meets standard nutrition requirements
  • Good in an emergency
  • Non-GMO
  • Sometimes Amazon has a sale/discount. Currently it’s 25% off per canister.


CONS:

  • Uses non-fat goat milk instead of whole goat milk
  • Contains Soy bean oil and Palm oil
  • Not organic


Bottle Station Set Up

Lastly, I wanted to share our water and bottle station setup. Hopefully, this will help someone else and make their life easier.

In our master bathroom, we had everything set up on the counter. The best purchase we made for making bottles was this hot water machine that keeps the temperature constant 24/7. You can also choose how hot you want it. Anyway, it holds 5L of water, so enough to get twin babies through for 3-4 days of bottles. We kept it pretty hot and some additional cold water on the side to mix temperatures. The reason we needed the hot water separate was mostly because when we used the Mt. Capra formula, you need to have extra hot water to melt the oils in the formula, then you add the remaining cold/warm water to the bottle and shake.

We used Dr. Brown bottles, a bottle rack/draining pad, bottle brush, and then formula. In another area, we had a mini-refrigerator where we kept breast milk, and would also refrigerate the Mt. Capra formula to keep it fresher longer. The dry mix lasts for 5 days on the counter or 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

One of the most important things to us was having filtered water. We used our Royal Berkey Water Filter so we had the best water quality. No tap or sink water here with potential chemicals, viruses, or bacteria. The Berkey filters all that through.

Every few days we would refill the hot water machine with filtered water and it would reheat itself back up. Easy peasy!

Hopefully, this blog post helps other mamas out there who are searching for goat milk formula. We’ve really thrived on it and my twins are extremely healthy and happy. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out!

*Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This blog does not constitute the practice of any medical, nursing or other professional health care advice, diagnosis or treatment. We cannot diagnose conditions, provide second opinions or make specific treatment recommendations through this blog or website.

no bake mini cheese cakes healthy keto vegan

Healthy No-Bake Mini Cheesecakes

November 16, 2020

One of my favorite desserts to make for my family is my no-bake mini cheesecakes! They are delicious, easy to store in the fridge or freezer, and easy to transport anywhere. Best of all, they are super cute and you can have fun with toppings and decorations based on your food mood. 

This is also a great recipe to have your kids help you with! My kids love to pick out the fruit toppings and even pour the cheese batter in the cups. 

Lastly, these are genius for packing in school lunches as a healthier dessert option. They fit right into their own compartment (I love the revessel products). Another idea is to use the even smaller mini cheesecake tins so you have more options for size portions. 

If you’re looking for a dairy-free vegan-friendly cheesecake recipe, with no processed sugars or ingredients, this one is for you. I do have another keto version of this cheesecake that I’d love to share!

Healthy No-Bake Mini Cheesecakes

Delicious dairy free cheesecakes that you'll love!
Course: Dessert
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 cup raw walnuts For Crust
  • 1 cup dates For Crust
  • 1 1/2 cups raw cashews
  • 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup full fat coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup no sugar added jam of choice

Instructions

  • Add nuts to a food processor and process into a meal. Add dates (if they aren’t soft, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes and then rinse well. Blend until a loose dough forms – it should stick together when you squeeze a bit between your fingers.
  • Lightly grease a 6 muffin tin (not necessary if you’re using a silicone tin. To make removing the cheesecakes easier, cut strips of parchment paper and lay them in the slots. This creates little tabs that makes removing them easier to pop out once frozen.
  • Next scoop in heaping 1 Tbsp amounts of crust and press with fingers. Set in freezer to firm up.
  • Add all filling ingredients to a blender and mix until very smooth. For the coconut milk, I like to scoop the “cream” off the top because it provides a richer texture. But if yours is already all mixed together, just add it in as is. If it won’t come together, add a touch more lemon juice or agave or a splash more coconut milk liquid as the liquid should help it blend better.
  • Divide filling evenly among the muffin tins. Leave some place to pour the jam. Tap a few times to release any air bubbles. 
  • Add the jam on top of the filling, until all the surface is cover.
  • Finally cover with plastic wrap and freeze until hard – about 4-6 hours.
  • Once set, remove them very slowly. They should pop right out. Keep in the freezer for up to 1-2 weeks. You can set them out for 10 minutes before serving to soften, but I liked them frozen as well.
healthy no-bake mini cheesecakes

Let me know if you give it a try and what you think! Enjoy!

Top Health & Wellness Podcasts

March 30, 2020

There are so many great resources out there, and so many brilliant minds. Why not listen to them while driving, doing laundry, around the house or while working out? As I write this, we are smack in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, and many of us have a lot of time on our hands while we are inside at home waiting for the shelter in place order to be lifted. If you need some more Podcast suggestions for the Health & Wellness arena, then here you go! These are a round up of my favorite most enlightening podcasts. Do you have anything to add? Let me know in the comments if I left one out that you love!

The Lifestylist Podcast by Luke Storey

The Doctor’s Farmacy Podcast by Dr. Mark Hyman

The Energy Blueprint Podcast

Broken Brain Podcast by Dhru Purohit

Heal Thyself Podcast by Christian Gonzalez 

The Wellness Mama Podcast by Katie Wells

The Brain Warrior’s Way Podcast by Dr. Daniel Amen

The Cabral Concept Podcast by Stephen Cabral

Found My Fitness Podcast by Dr. Rhonda Patrick

Ben Greenfield Podcast

Living 4D Podcast by Paul Chek

BulletProof Podcasts by Dave Asprey

Rewild Yourself Podcast by Daniel Vitalis

Naturally Nourished Podcast by Ali Miller

The Doctor’s Kitchen Podcast

Mind Body Green Podcast

Functional Nutrition Podcast by Dr. Jockers 

The Gutsy Health Podcast

Biohacker Babes Podcast

Wise Traditions Podcast by Weston A. Price

Holistic Health Masterclass by Brett Hawes

The Obesity Code Podcast by Jason Fung

Your Nutrition Prescription Podcast by Dr. Adrian Chavez

I’ll add more as I find more out there, but these are the top and best podcasts you can listen to, to better your health, body and mind. Enjoy!

 

detoxing heavy metals chemicals healthy happy thriving

Detox Remedies For Your Family

May 4, 2019

We are bombarded on a daily basis with chemicals and toxins, many of which we don’t even realize. You’ve probably heard before the term ‘liver detox’. Your liver doesn’t need a detox, because the liver’s function is to detox. Your liver represents the human body’s primary filtration system, converting toxins into waste products, cleansing your blood, and metabolizing nutrients and medications to provide the body with some of its most important proteins. As such a fundamental part of the body’s overall regulation, it’s paramount to keep your liver healthy and to limit overindulgence. (1)

Our bodies are naturally detoxing every second that we are alive. Your liver doesn’t decide to turn on detox one day and off another. It is continuous. But I think the issue with people nowadays is that many, if not most are overloaded with toxins, and they are experiencing health issues because of it. One of the things we can do to help our bodies is, avoid chemicals and toxins altogether. Avoid your exposure to heavy metals and toxins in your water, food, cleaning products, pet products, lawn products, and even your bathroom products. Throw out anything that you feel is dangerous or affects you. For me personally, I choose to clean my home with all-natural products, like these or these. I also wear latex-free gloves so that when I am cleaning I am extra careful that nothing gets on my skin. Not that vinegar is dangerous, but I always wear gloves when cleaning.

Check out your makeup cabinet, lotions, and bath supplies. I’ve replaced my dove deodorant with aluminum-free deodorant, Playtex tampons with organic cotton tampons, makeup and other bathroom items that are free of toxins, parabens, sulfates, and other harmful ingredients. I’ve even switched all my hair care needs to an all-natural line that has done wonders for my hair since I’ve started using it.

Even air fresheners and candles have toxic fumes. Can you believe this? I was shocked to learn that the candles I have been burning for 5 years in my previous home all had over 10 different kinds of toxins in them. The best alternative option I’ve found is beeswax candles. More info here on how candles are toxic. 

Here are other places that we run into toxins/chemicals:

Our Drinking Water

Tap water is treated with a large number of chemicals in order to kill bacteria and other microorganisms. In addition, it may contain other undesirable contaminants like toxic metal salts, hormones, and pesticides, or it may become contaminated by chemicals or microbes within pipes (e.g. lead, bacteria, protozoa). Your typical tap water includes chlorine, fluorine compounds, trihalomethanes, salts (from arsenic, radium, aluminum, copper, lead, mercury, cadmium, barium) hormones, nitrates, and pesticides. (1.1)

Even if you filter your water, unless you pay for a very expensive high-grade filtering system, you’re not going to eliminate everything. Plus, when taking showers/baths, washing hands, and using any water for food preparation; you are exposed to those chemicals as well if coming straight from your tap.

Our Food

Pesticides, which are any substances intended to prevent or destroy pests, are used to protect food from bacteria, weeds, mold, insects, and rodents. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, pesticides can be harmful to people, animals, or the environment because they are designed to kill or harm living organisms. Because of this, pesticide residue on the foods you eat can have an effect on your health. Though the government regulates pesticide use, residues are still found in our food supply. (2)

Children who are frequently exposed to a small number of organophosphates, a pesticide found on commercially grown fruit and vegetables, are more likely to have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder than children who have been exposed less often. Exposure to these pesticides has also been linked to behavior and learning problems in children. (3)

Click here to read more articles about “Toxic America”. 

Not to mention fast food chemicals. Did you know that so many unhealthy things are added? Many of which are toxic and harmful to our bodies. Just to name a few:

Sodium Benzoate and Potassium Benzoate

These preservatives are sometimes added to soda to prevent mold from growing, but benzene is a known carcinogen that is also linked with serious thyroid damage. Dangerous levels of benzene can build up when plastic bottles of soda are exposed to heat or when the preservatives are combined with ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Don’t risk it, people

Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA)

BHA is another potentially cancer-causing preservative, but it has been deemed safe by the FDA. Its job is to help prevent spoilage and food poisoning, but it’s a major endocrine disruptor and can seriously mess with your hormones. BHA is in HUNDREDS of foods. It’s also found in food packaging and cosmetics. BHA has many aliases. You can look them up. Or you can follow my advice and DITCH processed foods altogether.

Sodium Nitrates and Sodium Nitrites

No that’s not a typo. These two different preservatives are found in processed meats like bacon, lunch meat, and hot dogs. They’re some of the worst offenders, and they’re believed to cause colon cancer and metabolic syndrome, which can lead to diabetes. Protect your health by always choosing fresh, organic meats.

Blue, Green, Red, and Yellow

The artificial colors blue 1 and 2, green 3, red 3, and yellow 6 have been linked to thyroid, adrenal, bladder, kidney, and brain cancers. Always seek out foods with the fewest artificial chemicals, especially when shopping for your kids. Look for color-free medications and natural food products that don’t contain artificial colors like these.

MSG

Monosodium glutamate is a processed “flavor enhancer.” While glutamates are present in some natural foods, such as meat and cheese, the ones exploited by the processed-foods industry are separated from their host proteins through hydrolysis. The jury is still out on how harmful MSG may be, but high levels of free glutamates have been shown to seriously screw with brain chemistry. Don’t fall prey to chemical flavor enhancing. Just play it safe and flavor your food naturally. (4) 

You can also read another study and article that links fast food to toxic chemicals here.

Other Daily Exposures

We are exposed to bad air quality daily whether it’s inhaling fumes from vehicles, or breathing in chemicals from the cleaning supplies you’ve been using. 

The plastic we package our food in, microwave it in and eat out of can leak into our foods. If you cook your food in aluminum or non-stick pans, that has been shown to come off in our food, and affect us. 

The makeup we wear, shampoos, soaps, and fragrances that our skin absorbs. They all contain chemicals that affect us and can wreak havoc on our bodies and brains. How scary is it to think, the lotion you might be rubbing on your baby could be hurting them? Read the labels, research the ingredients, know what you’re putting in your body. What you put on your skin might be more toxic than what you put in your mouth. (5)

Vaccines

I’m not here to get into a debate about vaccines. I’m just pointing out that they have some serious chemicals and toxins in them that are not good for us. That doesn’t discount that they might have some things that are meant to help. If you read the inserts, you’ll see the ingredients and know what I mean about the toxic ingredients. (6) 

If you are giving your children vaccines, then you’ll definitely want to be doing a detox protocol. I know several nurses who vaccinate their children, then go home directly after and help their children detox so they can lessen the side effects of any toxin build-ups.

Genetics Side Note

Many people have the MTHFR gene mutation, diagnosed or not. It’s fairly common. MTHFR is an enzyme that adds a methyl group to folic acid to make it usable by the body. The MTHFR gene produces this enzyme that is necessary for properly using vitamin B9. This enzyme is also important for converting homocysteine into methionine, which the body needs for proper metabolism and muscle growth and which is needed for glutathione creation. The process of methylation also involves the enzyme from the MTHFR gene, so those with a mutation may have trouble effectively eliminating toxins from the body. This is why vaccinations can be very dangerous for those with this mutation. (7)

MTHFR stands for methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase. You can get a blood test to see if you have it. It is something that can be inherited and is genetic. 

The Good News

There are some great ways out there to help the detox process. Everything from simple baths, to very complex diets and supplements. I’m going to share with you some strategies and things you can do at home, on a daily or weekly basis to support your body and help it to better detox. You can do a combination of things, or just try one at a time. 

Supporting Our Body’s Natural Detoxing Abilities 

1. Kid or Adult Bath Detox

1 cup Epsom Salt and 1/2 cup Baking Soda

A warm or hot bath can also promote sweating, which may help the body release toxins from the pores. Adding baking soda can be beneficial and help with the following conditions: yeast infections, fungal skin and nail infections, eczema, psoriasis, Poison Ivy/Oak, UTIs, diaper rash, constipation, hemorrhoids, and more. (8)

Adding the Epsom Salt is important because it helps aid in the detox process, but also has some other amazing benefits. It helps with inflammation, reduces stress, boosts levels of magnesium, soothes aches and pains, promotes better sleep, raises serotonin levels, can ease sunburns, and more. (9)

Feel free to add in some lavender (or other essential oils) and remember that filtered water is best for detox baths. You can check the quality of your city’s water here.

2. Bentonite Clay 

Clays are used to absorb toxins because they act like a sponge or magnet for chemicals and metals inside the body. Due to its poly-cationic nature, bentonite clay leads to the absorption of negative charge toxins. Most clays are meant for topical use only (they are not meant to be ingested). However, some high-quality, organic clays can be used internally, although you need to be very careful about doing this (contact the manufacturer to ask if it’s safe to consume the clay). Historically, many cultures ate clay to obtain minerals and help cleanse their bodies of parasites and other microbes. If you do want to use clay internally, mix 1/2 teaspoon with water, shake to combine and take once daily. (10)

3. Colon Cleanse

Studies show that bowel movements are important for removing bacteria, heavy metal detox, or eliminating excess fatty acids from the body. A colon cleanse can also impact the nervous system positively, which is why it might help symptoms like anxiety and fatigue. You can go to a professional for this, which may be more beneficial than doing it from home. Make sure to take a probiotic supplement to replenish the good bacteria. This is only recommended for adults. (11)

4. Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is a treatment that works to eliminate metals and toxins via adsorption, or the chemical reaction where elements bind to a surface. The porous surface of activated charcoal has a negative electric charge that causes positive charged toxins and gas to bond with it. Charcoal is so powerful that it’s used as an emergency treatment for removing poisons from the body very fast. It’s full of carbon and can help discard heavy metals and other toxins. Look for activated charcoal made from coconut shells or identified wood species that have ultra-fine grains. Follow directions based on the specific type you use. Whenever you take activated charcoal, it’s imperative to drink 12–16 glasses of water per day. (12)

5. Detox Food Pads

These foot pads are one of my favorites to use for supporting detox in my body. They are made up of natural ingredients that help draw the toxins from our feet. The pads are worn on the feet for a couple of reasons – the feet are considered in Oriental medicine to be the “second heart” – that is, they help pump return circulation of blood and lymph back up into the torso.  With much of our time sedentary these days, this natural pumping action is inhibited and circulation tends to bog down around the feet, ankles, and lower legs.

It’s definitely a very holistic eastern medicine type of detox, but I’ve had positive experiences with it so far. Check out the link for more info, and the video. These are safe for all ages 2 years and up. 

6. Infrared Sauna

Infrared’s deep penetrating heat is what most effectively stimulates metabolic activity, which in turn triggers the release of stored toxins through sweat, as well as through the liver and kidneys.

The key to making sauna use an effective detoxification method for you is daily use.  Using it once in a while will help, but it is daily use that will result in these long-term benefits.

Infrared saunas are more effective at stimulating detoxification and gentler on the body than traditional hot rock saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs. Deep, cellular sweating is key to detoxifying and energizing your body. Note: You should not be using a sauna if you have breast implants. (12)

7. Fasting

There is a good amount of information out there about fasting and how it helps with the detox process. Fasting is one of the most beneficial things we can do for our bodies. There are different types of fasting too, like intermittent fasting (16:8) or a 2 day fast, or more long-term options. You will see better results with something like a 2 day cleanse instead of short intermittent fasting. For more info on the different options check out this video by Rhonda Patrick.


Fasting is great for your health. It’s great for your intestines, your cells, your brain, your insulin levels, weight loss, etc. It has so many benefits. I personally like to do two-day fasts, two times a month, and I use an herbal cleanse drink that I drink during the two days to balance electrolytes and nourish my body with vitamins while fasting. I experience a clearer mind, better mood levels, better sleep, fat loss, more energy, and less anxiety. You can read more here about the science behind fasting and detoxing.

8. Drink Lots of (Filtered) Water

I highly recommend a solid filter or purification system. I have found this one to be very high quality and worth the price. We use the larger one so that we can use it for cooking and other things in addition to drinking water. It’s called The Royal Berkey.

9. Healthy Eating & Exercise

Eat unprocessed natural whole foods as much as possible. Stop eating fast food, or processed junk foods. Read the label and know what’s in your food.

Exercise helps the body’s organs of elimination to function optimally simply by getting them going. Moving the body helps to circulate both blood and lymph. The more they circulate, the more the liver and lymph nodes can do the job of cleansing and purifying the blood and lymph.

The digestive system works well and more regularly with consistent exercise. When you exercise you breathe deeply with your lungs. The oxygen that you breathe in travels through the blood to the brain and muscles. The lungs increase their capacity as the heart muscle grows stronger, and they produce and give off carbon dioxide as a waste product of aerobic exercise. The skin is cleansed from the inside out by the cleansing process of perspiration. Many toxins can be eliminated through the skin by sweating.

Another way exercise helps to detoxify the body is by reducing the body’s subcutaneous fatty tissue. Toxins get stored in the fatty tissue of the body. Therefore, when fatty tissue is reduced as a result of aerobic exercise, the toxins are released and can be eliminated through the cleansing organs. (12.1)

10. Probiotics

Probiotics are “friendly” bacteria found in foods such as yogurt, miso, or kefir. They’re also available in supplements in the form of liquid, powder, or capsules. These bacteria, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, help to keep a healthy balance of intestinal flora in your intestines and provide various health benefits, such as boosting your immune system or improving intestinal health. But it’s not all good news with these friendly bacteria. They can cause symptoms similar to those you might experience on a detox diet because probiotics can serve that purpose in the body. (13)

Probiotics have been studied and shown to detox, or rid the body of chemicals and heavy metals and boost immunity. Read here: http://www.greenmedinfo.com/blog/7-ways-probiotics-help-you-detoxify-your-health

Go here: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17110980 For further info and studies.

I have used several probiotics, and the ones I like best are: VSL, DrFormulas, and Renew Life.

Detox Remedies for heavy metals and chemicals

Melatonin

Research shows that melatonin has a metal binding role and is a useful supplement in the treatment of neurological disorders in which oxidative stress is involved, which includes Alzheimer’s. Melatonin can travel freely across all cellular barriers, facilitating the removal of toxic metals such as aluminum. It also appears to suppress the oxidative activity of aluminum in your brain. Melatonin is also one of the hormones that is blocked by Glyphosate exposure, so exogenous support is quite beneficial to rid yourself of this toxin. New research shows melatonin also has anti-cancer properties. (15, 15.1) This is the liquid melatonin I use and recommend.

Other supplements to take that may help you overcome heavy metal poisoning include:

Chlorella (1-4 grams per day, or about 4-8 caps daily) — Chlorella is a type of green algae that acts as a natural chelator to remove heavy metals, especially lead and mercury. It’s a great source of chlorophyll and is “hungry” to absorb other metals. You can take it in powder or tablet form.

Vitamin C (3000 milligrams daily) — Acts as an antioxidant to help reduce free radicals. I prefer to use the packets as they are absorbed better into the body and easy to give my kids.

Cilantro (preferably taken as a tincture 2x per day)

Shilajit (between 100-500 milligrams daily, typically in powder form) — Shilajit is an adaptogenic plant that has certain things in common with activated charcoal, especially that it contains a lot of carbon. It’s a natural chelator because it contains fulvic acid and humic acid that bind to toxic molecules.

Milk Thistle (150 milligrams taken 2x daily, or milk thistle tea 1-3 times daily) — This is one of the most popular herbs for detoxifying the liver. Silybin is a component with the greatest degree of biological activity that has strong antioxidant properties. It may act as a toxin blockade agent by inhibiting binding of toxins to cell membrane receptors. Silymarin has been shown to reduce liver injury and is used to treat alcoholic liver disease, acute and chronic viral hepatitis, and toxin-induced liver diseases.

(Above recommendations by Dr. Axe)

Silica
Research published in 2013 showed that drinking up to one liter of silicon-rich mineral water daily for 12 weeks effectively excreted aluminum via the urine, without detrimental effects on essential metals such as iron and copper. According to the authors: “We have provided preliminary evidence that over 12 weeks of silicon-rich mineral water therapy the body burden of aluminum fell in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and, concomitantly, cognitive performance showed clinically relevant improvements in at least 3 out of 15 individuals.”

Silicon-rich mineral waters help to remove aluminum from the body because they are actually rich in soluble silicon or silicic acid. This form of silicon immediately follows water molecules through the gut wall and into the bloodstream where it forms a complex with aluminum called an hydroxyaluminosilicate. This form of aluminum can be easily filtered from the blood by the kidney. Hence, silicon-rich mineral waters increase the excretion of aluminum in the urine. (14)

Lastly, I wanted to mention an amazing supplement that helps repair your body from any oxidative stress and inflammation you have been experiencing. It’s called Nrf2 activator. I’ve been using this supplement for almost a month and have experienced some wonderful results including clearer thinking/less brain fog, much more motivation to get things done, less anxiety, more energy and better sleep. It is 100% plant-based and safe for all children, animals, and the elderly. There are over 25 peer-reviewed journals on this. If you’d like to find out more about the supplement you can go here. I’m also happy to answer any questions I can on this. So far from what I’m learning and reading from the studies is that it can reduce up to 40% of oxidative stress in your body within the first 30 days. It also increases your life span by 7%. It really is so fascinating, especially since it’s an herbal supplement that works naturally with our body. (More information on this to come since it’s such a great topic, I will be doing a blog post for this soon)

Hopefully, you’ll have an idea and strategy as to how you can best help your family. If you have any questions about any of the above, let me know! I’ll update anything else that we use or come across. Happy detoxing and thanks for stopping by!
-Jess @ Healthy Happy Thriving

Sources: 

(1) https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320371.php

(1.1) http://freshlysqueezedwater.org.uk/waterarticle_watercontent.php

(2) https://www.livestrong.com/article/230346-the-effects-of-pesticides-in-food/

(3) http://www.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/05/17/pesticides.adhd/index.html

(4) https://www.thebetterhealthstore.com/043011_top-ten-toxic-ingredients-in-processed-food_01.html

(5) https://chriskresser.com/toxic-skincare-products-soap-shampoo-and-lotion/

(6) https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/pinkbook/downloads/appendices/B/excipient-table-2.pdf

(7) https://wellnessmama.com/27148/mthfr-mutation/

(8) https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321398.php

(9) https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321398.php

(10) https://draxe.com/heavy-metal-detox/

(11) https://draxe.com/colon-cleanse/

(12) https://blog.bulletproof.com/infrared-sauna-benefits-detox/

(12.1) https://www.livestrong.com/article/206993-exercise-for-detox/

(13) https://www.livestrong.com/article/531625-do-probiotics-cause-detox-symptoms/

(14) https://www.hippocraticpost.com/nursing/why-everyone-should-drink-silicon-rich-mineral-water/

(15) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9468114 

(15.1) https://drjess.com/recovery-methods-brain-aluminum-glyphosate-exposure-2-2/

CoQ10: A Super Nutrient

July 13, 2018

CoQ10: A Super Nutrient

CoQ10 popularly referred to as coenzyme Q10, and it was discovered in the mid-20th century. CoQ10 is a fat-soluble chemical substance that plays a vital role in the transport of electrons in the mitochondria of living cells. It is ubiquitous to most bacteria cells and that of animals hence its moniker, Ubiquinone. CoQ10 is an oxidant that helps to convert the food we consume into energy. CoQ10 is very abundant in humans and guinea pigs. It is highly concentrated in the kidneys, liver, and heart. This is expected because of the plethora of functions these organs perform in the body. The body synthesizes CoQ10 and also recycles it when the stores are depleted. Research on this chemical compound has been extensively carried out in countries like Europe, Russia, and Japan.

BENEFITS OF CoQ10

Antioxidants, such as CoQ10, can neutralize free radicals and may reduce or even help prevent some of the damage they cause. CoQ10 improves energy, augments the immune system, and acts as an antioxidant. The potential use of coenzyme Q10 supplements alone or in combination with other drug therapies and nutritional supplements may help prevent or treat some of the following conditions: cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, cancer, periodontal diseases, mitochondrial disorders, radiation injury, obesity, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), gastric ulcers, allergy, migraine headaches, kidney failure, muscular dystrophy, and aging.(1) CoQ10 is very useful for many purposes which include;

Maintenance of the heart

CoQ10 has been proven to be very effective in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases like congestive heart failure, hypertension, heart–rhythm irregularities. CoQ10 was the first supplement to reduce mortality due to heart failure. Reports have also proven that CoQ10 helps to reduce recurrent episodes of heart attacks in those who have suffered it. For individuals with high blood pressure, administering CoQ10 has been shown to help reduce both diastolic and systolic pressure without adverse effects.

Immune system support

CoQ10 helps to boost the immune system of the body by keeping the thymus gland which is responsible for increasing the immunity of the body in shape.

Cancer-fighting

Administering food sources rich in CoQ10 has been proven to help in the prevention and treatment of certain cancers. Since cancer patients suffer from low levels of the compound, it helps to augment and hasten the healing process.

WHAT FOOD NUTRIENTS CAN WE FIND THE NUTRIENTS IN?

As we grow older the amount of CoQ10 in our bodies begin to decline. Our body’s stores can no longer sustain us. In addition to that, the body’s ability to produce the coenzyme gets a bit compromised hence the need for some exogenous source of CoQ10.

The richest sources of CoQ10 are;

  • Organ meats which include; kidney, liver, beef, heart

Fish sources include; herring, tuna mackerel, and sardines.

  • Vegetarians are not left out; there are good sources of vegetables that are rich in CoQ10. They include; cauliflower, parsley, sorrel herb, broccoli, and spinach.
  • Soybeans and peanuts are very good leguminous sources of CoQ10.
  • Foods like egg yolk, butter, whole milk (pasteurized and unpasteurized) are rich in CoQ10 but they have high cholesterol and should be eaten with discretion.
  • Fruits like black currants, avocado, strawberries, apples, and grapefruits are excellent sources of CoQ10.
  • Cooking oils like soybean oil, sesame oil, extra virgin olive oil, peanut oil and rapeseed oil are good oil sources of the compound.
  • Seeds and Nuts that are rich in this antioxidant compound are; pistachios, walnuts, sesame seeds, hazelnuts, and peanuts.
  • Grain sources include rice bran, wheat germ, and buckwheat and corn germ.

HOW MUCH IS RECOMMENDED?

Consumption of the compound can be either through natural food sources or in supplement forms. Also, the recommended daily intake depends on the nature of what you are consuming it for. No Recommended Daily Intakes have been cast on stone; however, if you suffer from heart failure, your physician might recommend taking three doses per day that will sum up to 100mg. I have been using this brand of CoQ10 for the last 3 months and feel like I can notice a small difference in energy. Also, as I prepare to get my body for pregnancy, CoQ10 is recommended. So I am stocking up on this!

(1) – Coenzyme Q10: The essential nutrient (reference)

salmon recipe best delicious fast dinner healthy

Six Amazing Salmon Recipes

March 25, 2018

I’m a huge Salmon lover over here! It is so versatile with seasonings and flavors. You can pair it with so many vegetables and side dishes. I’m tired of chicken right now, bring on the salmon! Because I’ve been so bored lately with my usual recipe, I decided to search for the most delicious ones I could find out there. These are the six recipes that I rounded up to share with you! I’ve posted the recipes below to share, but I highly advise you to head over to each of the creator’s sites so that you can get any additional tips or advice for making the recipe. Hopefully you find a new favorite! (Click the recipe names to be directed back to their websites)

1. Panko Crusted Honey Mustard Salmon

Ingredients

  • 4 (6 oz) salmon fillets
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp dijon mustard
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp honey
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 3/4 cup Panko bread crumbs
  • 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Spray a 13 by 9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray, set aside.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together mustard, honey and garlic. In a shallow dish toss together Panko bread crumbs, parsley and lemon zest. Drizzle olive oil over mixture then toss to evenly coat.
  • Working with one piece of salmon at a time, brush top with honey mustard mixture season with salt and pepper (don’t overdue it, you’ll be seasoning both sides), then rotate and transfer to bread crumb mixture (the honey mustard should be facing down to get the bread crumb mixture to stick to salmon), then brush top of salmon with honey mustard mixture and season lightly with salt and pepper and rotate to coat with crumb mixture. Transfer to baking dish and repeat with remaining salmon fillets.
  • Bake in preheated oven 13 – 15 minutes until salmon has cooked through. Serve warm with lemon wedges (from zested lemon) if desired.

 

2. Cajun Salmon

Ingredients

  • 1 salmon fillet, skin on, boneless
  • 2 teaspoons cajun or creole seasonings
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • pinch of cayenne pepper
  • 1 lemon, zested, juiced
  • 1/4 cup Italian parsley, minced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 475 degrees.
  • Mix seasoning blend together.
  • Rinse salmon, pat dry.
  • Place salmon on oven proof pan, coat both sides with olive oil.
  • Season salmon with seasoning blend, rub into salmon on both sides.
  • Place salmon skin side down, top with lemon juice and zest.
  • Bake at 475 for 10-12 minutes.
  • Remove from oven, top with parsley and serve with extra lemon.

 

3. Skillet Seared Salmon with Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce

Ingredients

  • 4 (6 oz) skinless salmon fillets (about 1-inch thick)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/8 – 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (to taste)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

      Sauce

  • 1/2 cup natural sour cream
  • 2 green onions , end trimmed, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup packed cilantro (mostly leaves, some stem)
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic , sliced

Instructions

  1. Remove salmon fillets from refrigerator and allow to rest at room temperature 10 minutes. Meanwhile prepare sauce.
  2. For the sauce, add sour cream, green onions, cilantro, lime juice, garlic and season with salt to taste (about 1/4 tsp). Process until cilantro has been very finely minced. Set aside at room temperature while preparing salmon.
  3. In a small bowl whisk together cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, 1/2 – 3/4 tsp salt (depending on how salty you like things) and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Dab both sides of salmon dry with paper towels, season both sides evenly with cumin mixture and lightly rub over salmon. Heat a (heavy) 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and once oil is shimmering add salmon (top side down first. Also leave space between fillets) and cook about 4 minutes, without moving, on the first side until golden brown on bottom then flip and cook salmon on opposite side until salmon has cooked through, about 2 – 3 minutes longer. Serve warm with Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce.

 

4. Blackened Salmon

Ingredients

  • 2 6-8 ounces salmon filets, skin removed
  • 4 Tablespoons blackening seasoning (such as old bay)
  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 Lime wedges for garnish
  • 3 Tablespoons butter
  • 1 Teaspoon Garlic, minced
  • ½ lime juice squeezed
  • 2 Tablespoons cilantro, minced

Instructions

  • For the cilantro lime butter: Place butter in a small bowl and microwave for 10-15 seconds, enough to slightly soften but not melt. Add garlic, cilantro, and lime juice.
  • Use a fork to mix the butter together until combined. Spoon onto a small sheet of tinfoil, forming a line, and then roll to create a cylinder. Place in the fridge for about 5 minutes and then set aside.
  • For the salmon: Season each salmon filet with blackening seasoning until fully coated (about 2 tablespoons of blackening seasoning per salmon filet).
  • Place 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a cast iron skillet on medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, flipping once, for medium. Sear 4-5 minutes per side if you prefer your salmon more flakey through the center.
  • Top each salmon filet with a slice of cilantro lime butter and serve with a lime wedge.

 

5. Honey Mustard Salmon in Foil

Ingredients

  • 1 batch honey mustard sauce (see below)
  • 2 pound side of salmon, boneless and skinless
  • 1 tablespoon finely-chopped fresh parsley leaves

       Honey Mustard Sauce Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup whole grain mustard
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  • Heat oven to 375°F.  Or heat a grill to medium heat.
  • Prepare your honey mustard sauce as directed below.
  • Line a large baking sheet with a large sheet of aluminum foil.  Mist the foil with cooking spray, then lay out the salmon in the middle of the foil.
  • Spoon the honey mustard sauce on top of the salmon, and spread it around evenly so that it covers the top of the salmon.
  • Fold the sides of the aluminum foil up and over the top of the salmon until it is completely enclosed.  (If your sheet of foil is not large enough, just place a second sheet of foil on top and fold the edges so that it forms a sealed packet.)
  • To Cook In The Oven: Bake for 14-15 minutes, or until the salmon is almost completely cooked through.  (Cooking times will vary on the thickness of your salmon, so I recommend checking it a few minutes early if you have a thinner cut of salmon.) Remove the salmon from the oven and carefully open and pull back the aluminum foil so that the top of the fish is completely exposed.  (Be careful, lots of hot steam will be released!)  Change the oven setting to broil, then return the fish to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes.  (Keep a close eye on the salmon while broiling, though, to be sure that the sauce does not burn.)
  • To Cook On The Grill: Carefully transfer the packet of salmon to the grill, and grill for 12-14 minutes, or until the salmon is almost completely cooked through.  (Cooking times will vary on the thickness of your salmon, so I recommend checking it a few minutes early if you have a thinner cut of salmon.)  Carefully open and pull back the aluminum foil so that the top of the fish is completely exposed.  (Be careful, lots of hot steam will be released!)  Continue cooking for 3-4 minutes, until the fish is cooked through.
  • Remove salmon from the oven or grill.  Sprinkle the top of the salmon evenly with parsley, and serve immediately.

     To make the honey sauce

  • Whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl until combined.

 

6. Honey Glazed Salmon

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon filets
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 4 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Zest of 1 lime

      For the browned lime butter sauce

  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, pressed
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  • To make the browned butter lime sauce, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook, whisking constantly, until the foam subsides and the butter begins to turn a golden brown, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic, honey and lime juice, salt and pepper, to taste; set aside.
  • Season salmon with salt and pepper, to taste. Dredge each salmon filet with 1 tablespoon flour and drizzle with 1 tablespoon honey.
  • Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium high heat. Working in batches, add salmon to the skillet and sear both sides until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side.
  • Place into oven and bake until completely cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
  • Serve immediately with browned butter lime sauce and lime zest, if desired.
 Let me know which one you try and how it turns out!
quiche keto low carb dairy free paleo grain free

The Best Dairy Free Keto Recipes (Low Carb, Grain Free, Dairy Free)

November 9, 2017

Dairy Free Keto Recipes are hard to find, trust me I know! When I was doing a specific protocol earlier this year, I had to stick to this way of eating. But first, I had to find recipes because I wanted to set myself up for success. I didn’t want to have to reinvent the wheel with these recipes. So after some research I found Leanne’s site, The Healthful Pursuit. I was so excited to find someone who had put so much work and dedication into this way of eating and her recipes. She has so many recipes on her site you are going to love all the endless options. Not only does she have recipes, but she has wonderful podcasts and educational information! As a fellow science nerd, that just sealed the deal for me. In fact, you may see more of Leanne’s information on here because she talks about a lot of important things.

Head over to her site and take your time browsing. If you’re like me, you’ll want to spend days reading everything. You’re welcome! 😉

PS- You can also find her recipe books and meal planning for beginners here.

dairy free keto low carb paleo

*Header Image by Paleo with Mrs. P

Hair Growth Healthy Hair

Hair Growth Vitamins that Boost Hair Growth & Volume

July 12, 2017

Hair is a fun topic for me because its a love/hate relationship! Do I like my hair? You bet, I’m grateful I have hair and that it grows nicely. I do wish it had some better qualities though. For example, the older I’ve grown the thinner my hair has become and my ponytails are 1 inch or less in diameter! It just has no volume whatsoever. Length wise, its not terrible but I do wish it would grow past a certain point on my back. I think that you’ll like my post today on how to grow your hair longer, fuller and definitely help it look healthier. One of my fav doctors blogged about some information on how to achieve this and I just had to share what he said below! Scroll down for the juicy details! (Source: Dr.Westin Childs)

There are various treatments you can do to improve the quality and texture of your hair but you need to make sure you are using the RIGHT supplements for YOUR body.

In this post I go over the best hair growth vitamins, how to use them, which ones work best and how to determine if you need further evaluation.

What Really Causes Hair Loss

Can vitamins and supplements actually help regrow your hair?

It turns out that the answer to that is yes, but they must be used correctly.

In order to understand which supplements to use you need to understand why you are having hair loss to begin in.

Hair loss occurs as a result of multiple causes:

  • Nutrient deficiencies (due to poor diet, processed foods, etc.)
  • Mineral deficiencies (specifically iron)
  • Hormone imbalances including: high testosterone (specifically in women), low thyroid (both sexes), high cortisol (both sexes)
  • Exposure to repeated or chronic stress
  • Genetics (we can’t change this)
  • Certain medications (including some thyroid hormones)

​So if you know WHY you are having hair loss then you can target your treatment to that specific problem.

Unfortunately you may have one or more of the following issues going on in your body without knowing it, which creates a problem for us.

​Luckily there are several things we can do to test for these problems and you can match your symptoms to the various problems to pinpoint where your problem is.

Once you have that information down you can target your treatment to get results. ​

​How to Regrow your Hair with Vitamins & Supplements (Start here)

If you know you don’t have any issues with hormones, stress, etc. then you can start here.

These supplements are REQUIRED for proper hair growth and they also happen to be depleted in many individuals.

​The use of these supplements will result in increased hair growth, increase hair volume and increased hair density.

grow your hair volume healthy longer

#1. Biotin + Silica + Choline

​Studies have shown that certain nutrients can dramatically help improve hair growth even in nutrient repleted states.

​The combination of Biotin and Silica represents one such combination.

​In this study women with thinning hair were given that combination of supplements over 180 days.

hair regrowth study

Compared to placebo the women had an increase in hair volume and number of hair follicles that was twice that of the control group (placebo).

This supplement is probably my favorite and one of the most effective hair regrowth supplements that I know of.

Does it work for everyone?

Unfortunately not, but in my experience up to 60-70% of people who try it will experience some benefit. ​

If you decide to use this supplement make sure you use it for at least 2 months.

If you don’t notice any improvement after 2 months then you aren’t likely to be a responder and you should re-evaluate the cause of your hair loss. ​

How to tell if you Need it

Patients with Hashitmoto’s, Hypothyroidism or impaired thyroid function AND with hair loss should consider these supplements in addition to changes in thyroid function and evaluation of serum iron levels. This combination of supplements is probably the most effective at regrowing hair than any other.

How to Use
  • 1 Capsule two times per day (used in the morning and in the evening, but make sure to use away from your thyroid hormone)
  • You should first notice improvement in hair thickness and volume within 1-2 months, then an increase in hair growth thereafter
Recommended Product: BioSil

#2. Iron

Iron represents one of the most common and underappreciated causes of hair loss in women.

Why?

Because adequate iron stores (in the form of ferritin) are REQUIRED for optimal hair growth and this has been shown in several studies.

You need at least a ferritin level of 30ng/ml for optimal hair growth.

By the way – this is usually why women who take a prenatal vitamin experience increased hair growth.

It’s because MANY women are iron deficient and pre natal vitamins almost always contain iron.

​So why is this an issue?

Because most of the focus of physicians is on iron deficiency but only if it causes anemia.

But many studies have shown that low iron by itself (even with normal RBC/hemoglobin count) STILL influences hair growth and can cause hair loss long term.

​This is a big deal for women because of menstruation.

If you have a heavy menstrual cycle there is a high chance you may be iron deficient (as evidenced by a low ferritin level) but NOT anemic.

If so then you need to make sure you check your iron studies including your ferritin.

If you find that your ferritin is below 30ng/ml AND you are experiencing hair loss then treating with iron would be the first step to take. ​

If you’ve taken iron before and it has made you constipated then you will be happy to know that you can take liquid iron which does not cause constipation and will still be absorbed.

How to tell if you Need it

Check your iron studies and only supplement if your levels are sub optimal or low:

  • Ferritin – Optimal Levels = 40-50
  • Serum Iron – Middle of the reference range
  • TIBC (Total Iron Binding Capacity) – Middle of the Reference range
  • Percent Saturation – 35-38%
How to Use
  • Liquid iron: Start with 10 ml each day, do not exceed 20 ml per day (if you take more than 1 dose per day make sure to split it apart from one another and take at least 4 hours away from your thyroid medication)
  • Iron capsules: Start with 1 capsule of iron and increase up to 3 per day as tolerated and based on your serum iron/ferritin levels (take at least 4 hours away from your thyroid medication)

*Use liquid iron if you have intestinal issues such as gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation or if you have previously failed capsule forms of iron.

Recommended Product: Salus Haus – Floravital Iron (liquid)
For Iron Capsules

#3. ​L-Lysine

L-lysine is another overlooked nutrient required for optimal hair growth.

L-lysine is present in the hair root and is responsible for the shape and volume of your hair.

When you are deficient in l-lysine your hair becomes brittle, thin and limp.

​This is a big deal for several reasons:

First:

It is often overlooked and quite common.

Not many people take L-lysine despite the many benefits it has (even on immune function).

Second:

L-lysine is required for optimal absorption of both ​iron and zinc.

We just got done discussing how important iron is for hair growth but we need to take it one step further.

Iron deficiency can definitely be caused by iron less (through menstruation, etc.) but it can also be caused due to reduced absorption.

And this is where L-lysine comes in.

Even if you are taking iron supplements you may not be absorbing it.

And l-lysine has been shown to INCREASE that absorption (along with zinc). ​

So if your hair quality is changing, or you feel that your hair is getting more sparse or more thin than it has been in the past it is a great idea to try the combination of L-lysine plus Iron plus zinc.

This combination gives you back ALL of the critical nutrients required for hair growth.

How to tell if you Need it

Patients who still have hair loss despite iron supplementation and normal ferritin levels should consider adding L-lysine to their regimen to boost hair growth.

How to Use
  • Use 1,500mg per day (3 capsules) for best results in combination with iron, but away from thyroid hormone
Recommended Product: L-Lysine

 

#4. Minoxidil​

​Minoxidil isn’t necessarily a vitamin, it’s actually a medication, but it can be purchased over the counter.

It’s actually FDA approved to treat hair loss in both men and women and can be helpful in certain circumstances so it’s worth mentioning here.

hair growth with minoxidil

​It’s not a matter of whether minoxidil works or not, it definitely works – it wouldn’t be FDA approved if it didn’t.

The problem with minoxidil is that once you stop using it your hair will go back to the way it was previously, and that’s the issue.

The entire goal of growing your hair, increasing your volume and density is so that it STAYS that way.

But, as I mentioned, minoxidil still has value and here’s why:

First:

Minoxidil can be combined ​with other supplements for a compounded boost to hair growth.

What I mean is you can start minoxidil AND other therapies at the same time.

Once your hair starts growing from the other therapies then you can stop the minoxidil (or continue with it if that’s your preference). ​

Second: ​

Minoxidil offers a very quick solution to your hair loss/thinning hair.

It offers immediate improvement and has a very high chance of working.

This is important because we have to realize that hair loss can have a very big effect on self confidence.

If you have significant anxiety surrounding your hair loss, or your thinning hair is keeping you from going out into the public then minoxidil (short term) is a good idea to use while you also try other supplements. ​

In terms of how it works?

We aren’t 100% sure how minoxidil works, we just know that it does.

Studies have shown that it probably works by increasing blood flow, improving oxygenation to hair follicles and by altering certain potassium channels – all of which likely help to reduce hair loss and increase hair growth. ​

If you choose to use Minoxidil just remember that once you stop using it the beneficial effects that you experienced will subside (unless you use minoxidil + other vitamins). ​

Who should use it
  • People who are self conscious about their hair loss and need an immediate stop to the hair loss
  • People with high levels of testosterone (both men and women) who haven’t been able to lower it through lifestyle changes
  • People who have tried other oral supplements without benefit
How to Use
  • Apply the topical solution to your scalp (or areas where your hair is thin, remember that this works topically)
  • Make sure to wash your hands afterwards so you don’t stain your cloth (and be careful because it can run down your head)
  • Allow enough time to dry (usually between 2-4 hours) before shampooing your hair or applying hair spray, etc.
  • Apply at least once per day but preferably twice per day
Recommended Product: Minoxidil

healthy hair growth supplements

#5. B12 Shots​

B12 is another big one that is worth spending some time on.

I specifically mention B12 shots here instead of oral or sublingual B12 and that is intentional.

​Before we talk about why B12 shots are superior we need to establish why you would want to use B12 for your hair.

Well it turns out that studies have shown that you need all of the following nutrients in adequate amounts in order to regrow your hair:

  • Vitamin B12 level: Serum levels need to be higher than 700 (I prefer 1,000) ng/L
  • Ferritin: Must be 70 ng/ml (some studies show greater than 30, but I prefer closer to 50-70)
  • Hemoglobin: Must be at least 13 g/dL in women

We’ve already talked about ferritin (which is a marker of your iron stores) and hemoglobin isn’t usually a problem unless you have iron deficient anemia – but most patients are aware of this condition.

That leaves the B12.

You probably know Vitamin B12 as the “energy” nutrient, but what you might not have known is that it also plays an important role in hair growth.

​Like iron, Vitamin B12 is another very common nutrient that many patients are also deficient in.

B12 requires proper thyroid hormone, gastric acid and other cofactors for optimal absorption.

This leads to a situation where many patients taking oral B12 supplements (and even sublingual B12 drops) still have sub optimal levels.

And that’s where B12 shots come in.

Taking B12 bypasses gastrointestinal absorption by placing the B12 directly into your subcutaneous or skeletal muscles.

This results in near 100% absorption and assimilation right into your cells for optimal benefit.

​B12 shots also come with other benefits including potentially helping with weight loss, energy and more

How to Tell if you Need it

Patients with the following symptoms should consider using B12 shots:

  • Obesity or weight gain
  • Fatigue or low energy levels
  • Lack of sleep or insomnia (including difficulty falling asleep)
  • Depression or other mood issues like anxiety
  • Hair loss or a lack of hair growth
  • Low serum B12 levels (less than 1,000)
  • High homocysteine levels (greater than 9.0)
  • MCV (mean corpuscular volume) that is higher than 92
  • High levels of inflammation
Low serum B12 levels
How to Use
  • Take 5,000 mcg of Methylcobalamin every 7 days for at least 10 weeks
  • You will need 10 weeks worth of injections to saturate tissues and increase cellular B12 levels
Recommended Product:

Make sure you get methylcobalamin shots in a high enough dosage for best results. Recommended Lab coming soon.

These first 5 supplements are all things that can boost hair growth and can be used if you aren’t certain what is causing your hair loss.

Below I will go over some other specific situations that can lead to hair loss and how to deal with those. ​

What if High Testosterone is Causing your Hair Loss?​

Another very common reason for hair loss in women is due to high testosterone levels.

Much like men, women also can develop hair thinning and a male pattern baldness like scenario based on their testosterone levels.

​High testosterone levels can also cause coarse or dark hair growth in other places like the chin and upper lip.

male patterned baldness

I won’t go over the causes of high testosterone here, for now I want to focus on why high testosterone levels generally lead to hair loss in women.

​When we talk about testosterone in women we really need to talk about testosterone metabolites.

It turns out that androgens, specifically a very potent androgen​ known as DHT or dihydrotestosterone has direct action on hair follicles that leads to hair loss in both sexes.

Testosterone metabolism

​Your body turns testosterone into DHT through the enzyme 5-a reductase.

So high activity of this enzyme will result in higher than normal testosterone metabolism in favor of more DHT.

The more DHT you have (as a woman or male) the more hair loss that occurs. ​

What makes this tricky is that standard lab tests only check for serum testosterone levels.

Very few physicians actually check for DHT, so it can be missed. ​

The good news is that there is a way to slow down the enzyme 5-a reductase and reduce the amount of DHT your body is producing.

The way to do this is by using two supplements:​

#1. Zinc + Saw Palmetto

​Both zinc and saw palmetto have been shown to slow down this enzyme and reduce DHT production

This gives you a powerful tool in managing testosterone conversion inside your body.

Taking the combination of these supplements won’t necessarily reduce your total testosterone level, but it will impact your DHT conversion.

Along with this benefit, the combination of zinc and saw palmetto also has positive influence on inflammation, immune function and even thyroid function in your body.

We will talk more about zinc and thyroid function, but just realize that zinc IS required for hair growth as well.

So taking zinc in this setting is actually a really great idea.

By the way, this is also why taking zinc for acne has been shown to be helpful in hormonal acne (it reduces androgen activity in hair follicles AND sebaceous glands). 

How to Use
  • Take up to 60mg per day of zinc (max) – Zinc can also help promote proper thyroid function and immunity
  • Take up to 600mg per day of Saw palmetto
  • Combine both therapies for maximum benefit
Recommended Product:

Use 30-60mg of Zinc bound to picolinic acid per day and use it in conjunction with saw palmetto to help lower testosterone levels:

Zinc Supplement

Saw Palmetto

 

What if Hypothyroidism is Causing your Hair Loss?

Ok this is another big one and worth spending some time on as well.

You probably already know that low thyroid function is associated with hair loss, but what you may not have realized is how common the condition actually is.

Hypothyroidism is so common that I have 50+ posts on the subject alone.

Some studies show that up to 10-20% of people have thyroid related diseases (and at least 10% of the population is walking around without knowing it). ​

In addition most of us think as hypothyroidism as CAUSING obesity, but the opposite is also true.

Obesity causes thyroid dysfunction.

This means if you are overweight you HAVE thyroid issues, whether or not your thyroid problem caused your weight gain. ​

Couple this with the fact that most patients are under treated and/or misdiagnosed and you can see that the odds are high that (or inability to grow your hair back).

So how does this relate to hair loss?

Well, because your thyroid has direct action on your hair follicles any problem with your thyroid will also result in a problem regrowing your hair.

In fact, hair loss is one of the major symptoms of hypothyroidism, right up there with weight gain and fatigue.

When you take a look at these symptoms it’s easy to see that many people are suffering with thyroid issues without even realizing it.

Other symptoms that tend to accompany thyroid problems include:

  • Weight gain or inability to lose weight
  • Hair loss, brittle hair or inability to grow back your hair
  • Fatigue or low energy
  • Problems with sleep
  • Menstrual irregularities
  • Constipation or other GI problems like gas/bloating/acid reflux
  • Mood issues like depression or anxiety

​Bottom line?

If you have hair issues AND any of the above symptoms then you need to have your thyroid function evaluated correctly.

​Why?

Because if you don’t address your thyroid then it will be difficult to regrow your hair.

Having said all of this there are a couple of things you can do to boost your thyroid function, and these supplements also happen to be required for proper hair growth anyway so it’s a win-win. ​

#1. ​Zinc

We’ve already discussed how zinc can positively impact testosterone metabolism.

What we need to talk about now is how zinc can positively impact thyroid function AND improve hair growth.

Zinc metabolism has been shown to be required for optimal hair growth (this is why zinc is almost all hair growth formulations).

​Not only is zinc involved in the hair growth cycle but it’s also a nutrient that many people are deficient in.

People who notice an improvement in their hair when taking zinc probably don’t realize HOW it’s working, they just know that it is working.

Taking zinc can help improve your hair growth if your problem is related to thyroid function because zinc actually increases peripheral thyroid conversion.

Most of the thyroid hormone in your body ​is circulating around in an “inactive” form.

In order for thyroid hormone to be activated your body needs certain nutrients like selenium and zinc.

When in adequate amounts these nutrients help boost the conversion from T4 (the inactive thyroid hormone) to T3 (the active thyroid hormone).

Zinc obviously plays a role in this important process but it also helps metabolize testosterone, reduce inflammation, promote hair growth directly and improves immunity.

​These factors make taking zinc very important if you are having issues with hair growth.

 

#2. Selenium​

Selenium is another important nutrient that many people are deficient in.

What’s more is that selenium is required for proper hair growth.

Why?

Because selenium is an important part of selenium proteins that play a role in thyroid function, DNA synthesis and anti oxidant defense.

Selenium is also a component of the hair matrix and normal levels must be taken up by hair follicles in order to have normal hair growth.

In addition, selenium also promotes T4 to T3 conversion in deficient patients and may boost immune function.

Couple all of these benefits together and you can see why patients with hair issues should consider supplementing with selenium.

If you do decide to supplement with selenium it’s also a good idea to combine the combination of zinc plus selenium.

These two nutrients seem to work in tandem with one another in a multiplicative effect.

Who should use it
  • Patients with hair loss or hair thinning
  • Patients with known a known thyroid disorder and hair loss (or brittle hair)
  • Patients with other nutrient deficiencies like zinc or iodine
  • Patients who frequently take acid blockers for acid reflux
  • Patients with other GI related issues (gas/bloating, IBS, IBD, etc.)
  • Patients also taking Zinc
How to Use
  • 200-400mcg per day (do not exceed 400mcg per day)
Recommended Product: Selenium

 

Other Factors that Cause Hair Loss

We’ve already hit that majority of the main causes of hair loss and how to treat those problems, but we aren’t done yet.

There are other conditions that alter hair loss and they should at least be considered if you don’t know why your hair is falling out or not growing as well as it used to.

Remember that these conditions I am talking about are complex and usually interact with multiple systems in the body.

Because of these interactions it is important for you to address any and all problems you find in your body.

By taking this approach you will have the best success in improving your hair texture, quality and density. ​

Stress

Stress is often overlooked as a cause of disease, even though it may be one of the most important aspects of modern diseases.

Stress has been linked to multiple disease states (including an increased risk for heart disease and developing autoimmune disease) but here we will focus on its effects on hair follicles.

It is well known that high levels of stress alter the life cycle of your hair follicles.

When you perceive stress (this can be emotional, physical or social) your body responds by releasing cortisol – your stress hormone.

​Simply triggering this stress response isn’t necessarily a big deal, but when you constantly trigger your stress from day to day activities then you develop problems.

This constant exposure to stress alters your HPA axis and cortisol levels.

​This is important because high levels of cortisol have been shown to alter hair growth acceleration by up to 40%!

​What this means for you is this:

High stress levels may be LIMITING the ability your body has to regrow your hair.

So while it may not necessarily cause hair loss (although it can if you develop autoimmune disease) it most certainly will limit your body’s ability to regrow any lost hair.

This can be incredibly problematic if you have more than one condition like hypothyroidism induced hair loss PLUS stress which can then limit regrowth potential.

So what can you do about it?

It turns out that certain adaptogens can help reduce your cortisol level and indirectly influence hair growth through this mechanism.

​The adaptogen I am referring to is known as Ashwagandha and it has been shown in certain individuals to dramatically improve hair growth:

How to tell if you Need it

I recommend checking the following lab tests prior to supplementation:

  • Serum 8 am cortisol: For best results this level should be somewhere between 4-16. Levels higher than 20 may require different treatment.
How to Use
  • Dosage varies from 500-2,000 mg per day depending on tolerance and degree of symptoms
  • Length of treatment varies by condition, for adrenal fatigue supplementation as long as 6+ months may be required.
Recommended Product: Ashwagandha

Estrogen/progesterone Imbalances

​Lastly, and another important factor for hair loss, is your sex hormones.

We’ve already discussed how testosterone can influence hair growth but it turns out that your estrogen and progesterone levels ALSO play an important role.

estrogen and hair loss

​In fact, it’s well known that estrogen helps your hair stay thick and grow quickly.

This explains why some pregnant woman notice an improvement in both the texture and quality of their hair (and unfortunately why the hair reverts back to normal post pregnancy).

What you may not realize is that estrogen/progesterone imbalances lead to hair LOSS and a reduction in the quality and texture of your hair.

Another important factor is that these imbalances in estrogen and progesterone are increasingly becoming more common.

How do you know if you have sex hormone issues?

You may have 1 or more of the following symptoms:

  • Hair loss (or changes to hair density or texture)
  • PMS/PMDD
  • Menstrual irregularities
  • Mood changes (especially that coincide with your menstrual cycle)
  • Bloating or swelling in extremities
  • Breast tenderness
  • Pelvic cramps or pelvic pain
  • History of PCOS, endometriosis or fibrocystic breast disease

​If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above AND you have hair issues then you may have a problem with your sex hormones.

​The evaluation of sex hormones, and treatment of those problems, can be quite complex and I’ve gone into detail in previous posts about how to treat it but I won’t include it in this post.

Back to you

​The moral of the story:

Hair loss is a complex issue and may require more than just 1 or 2 supplements to fix the problem.

Your hair follicles are influenced by a variety of factors including: stress, hormones, nutrients and even your diet.

If you want to promote proper hair growth you need to find WHAT is wrong in your body and fix that problem.

Having said that there are multiple nutrients that have been shown to simply promote hair growth and these would be where you should start.

If you fail with these basic nutrients then it might be time for further evaluation of your thyroid function and sex hormones with specific treatment to those areas if necessary.

 

***Thank you Dr. Childs for an excellent article!***

Have you used hair vitamins that work? Comment below if you have tried something that has worked well for you, or if you’re wanting to try something new!

healthy ready for summer body

Getting Ready and Toned for Summer

May 10, 2017

When it comes to toning up after weight loss, everyone has an opinion about what works best. There seems to be a new fitness trend just about every week that promises to be your perfect solution. But if you’re not a fitness expert, it can be tough to know what will truly help you achieve the results you want.

The truth is that while “toning up” is typically associated with increased strength training, it is best achieved through a combination of different types of exercise and quality nutrition. Here we provide some of the most effective ways to tone up this summer:

1. Add Variety to Your Workout Routine

Adding variety isn’t just important to prevent you from getting bored. The best exercise routines are the ones that are constantly changing and challenging you to improve your fitness level. Many exercisers find that simply switching out their usual workout for something new a couple times a week can be the answer they’ve been looking for. It’s not uncommon to enjoy one type of exercise more than another, but with the limitless workout options out there, you’re bound to find plenty of new workouts you enjoy.

For example, the PRISE Protocol developed by Paul Arciero, Ph.D., Director of the Human Nutrition and Metabolism Laboratory at Skidmore College, is based on variety. The PRISE Protocol consists of four different types of workouts with each one performed one day per week. The exercise protocol includes a combination of resistance training, interval sprint training, stretching, and endurance training. By incorporating this protocol with protein pacing, athletes were able to better achieve the benefits of exercise with greater reductions in body fat and greater gains in lean muscle mass.

2. Prioritize Cleanse Days

People often turn to Cleanse Days for the overall health and weight loss benefits, but for those looking to gain muscle, the idea of fasting might seem counterintuitive. However, as intermittent fasting (IF) makes its way into the spotlight, an increasing amount of research supports IF as an effective way to lose fat while maintaining muscle compared to basic calorie restriction.

One study found that during a day of IF (or a Cleanse Day), the body conserves muscle by increasing the use of body fat for fuel and increasing growth hormone levels. These findings show that muscle loss is not a concern during Cleanse Days. If anything, making sure to work in regular Cleanse Days might help you achieve faster results.

3. Maximize Results With Protein Pacing

Protein pacing is a nutritional strategy of consuming high-quality protein foods at appropriate times throughout the day to maximize health and performance. The goal is to spread your daily protein intake evenly between four to six small meals, while consuming about 20-30 grams of protein per meal.

Isagenix products, including IsaLean® PRO Shake, IsaPro®, IsaLean Shake, and IsaLean Bars can help to make this nutritional strategy easy to achieve. Research has shown that protein pacing can help you maximize muscle maintenance during weight loss and muscle building when combined with exercise.

Dr. Arciero has been a key figure in research on the health and performance effects of protein pacing and has used Isagenix products in his research.  In a series studies, Dr. Arciero found that research participants who consumed a diet higher in quality protein combined with protein pacing and exercise lost more body weight, more body fat, more abdominal fat, and maintained their lean body mass (research). The study participants were able to achieve these beneficial improvements even though the total calories they consumed were identical to a normal eating pattern.

Through science-backed strategies, toning up couldn’t be easier. You may be surprised by how simple changes can make a big difference. There’s no better time to start shifting focus to what works best for toning up so you can feel your best, and most confident this summer.

Source: Isagenix

Ellie Monthly Subscription Box Review

May 5, 2017

Who doesn’t love stylish and adorable workout clothes? I am obsessed with all things cute + fitness. Hence my search for a great subscription box featuring stylish apparel at a good price. After doing a search, Ellie was the first one to come up. I checked them out on Instagram and was impressed by the cute clothing choices they put out each month.

Here is how it works. You sign up for a subscription at Ellie and tell them your preferred sizes. Once you set up your subscription, they will send you a monthly box with 5 items for $49.95. They will do a sneak peek at the beginning of every month so you can decide if you want it or not. They do offer the option to cancel or skip the box that month.

Your pretty and shiny box shows up on your doorstep. Once opened, you’ll find an Ellie cinch sack that has all the items inside. Your usual box will have a sports bra, a top, leggings or capris, some type of accessory and a piece of equipment. Now keep in mind you may receive an alternate item. They let you know up front in their FAQs that they don’t guarantee that every customer will receive the exact same item. If they do sell through a certain style, they will substitute it with something that’s super similar and as close to the original as possible. That is totally reasonable in my opinion. In fact, my first month was March and I didn’t get the same blue tank that they displayed on IG. However, I really liked the alternative version they sent me. Same with the month of April, I got a cute pink tank that wasn’t the original one..but I liked it MORE!

So far I’ve had a March box (themed blue) and I loved it. No problems! I’ve had an April box, and I’ve got my May box which is probably my most favorite of all. The items just get cuter and cuter.

Each month, they curate a unique matching outfit, except this month (MAY) each box will feature the same color scheme but with varying styles!

Ellie may Box blog review

All in all, I’ve been extremely happy with this subscription service, and I would recommend it to a friend. I do want to address some of the comments on social media. I’ve read unhappy comments about not being able to cancel, skip or just get in touch in general. First of all, the best way that Ellie recommends getting in touch with them is, to private message them on Instagram. You can also email, but I believe IG is faster. Second of all, give it some time. They are extremely busy and they may take more than 48 hours to respond. I had something that I needed resolving and they responded within a few days. In this day and age, everyone expects instant gratification and that is not how businesses work. Also, some of the not so happy comments would have never existed had they read through the information and FAQ’s on the website. So do yourself a favor, go through and read everything, that way you know what to expect. They want to resolve any questions or concerns as soon as they can, so give them some time to respond.

Feel free to check them out on Instagram at @EllieActivwear

A few more photos and angles of my May box! Can’t wait for next month!

Ellie Subscription Fitness Activewear Box

 

 

Back to top