1. Eat Regular Nutritious Meals

If you’re having nutritious and reasonably portioned meals, you’re on the right track to fuel your body to perform it’s best AND look it’s best!

“Eat more frequently, make healthy eating choices and control your portions”, says Melissa Stevens, MS, RD, LD, Nutrition Program Coordinator for Preventive Cardiology and Rehabilitation at the Cleveland Clinic Heart Center.

Skip the junk food, and instead prep healthy snacks such as legumes, nuts, or yoghurt for when you get peckish! You know what mum always said, make sure you eat your fruit and veges!

2. Plan Meals in Advance

If you always have your next meal with you, it’ll help you resist temptation to eat something unhealthy. Keep your favourite healthy snacks handy, such as Nutrimeal, so you’re ready to eat whenever hunger strikes.

3. Prepare Most Meals at Home

When you prepare meals at home, you have control over what is going into your food. When you eat out, you don’t really know what you’re getting, plus portion sizes tend to be double the amount necessary.

A great tip for when you do dine out, is to place half of your meal in a “to-go” bag so you aren’t eating a massive portion.

4. Drink Plenty of Water

There are so many reasons to stay hydrated, and it can even help you achieve your weight goals! Drinking water increases the amount of calories you burn, which is known as resting energy expenditure.

5. Burn More Calories Than You Take In

Running after your bikini body goals like

Hit the gym, walk the dog, do Zumba with your bestie. The more you move, the more you’re going to burn!

Plus, be conscious of how much sugar you’re consuming. Even though the label may say it’s ‘healthy’, it may not actually be.

6. Save Wine for The Weekend

If you love your wine (beer, or your pick of poison), save it for the weekend. You can drink it as part of your ‘cheat’ meal. When you’re having a sneaky wine most nights, it tends to add up. Wine has a lot of calories, so be sure to drink in moderation, especially if you’re trying to lose weight.

7. Build Those Muscles 

Make sure you’re getting cardio in, but don’t forget about strength training! While cardio is important for weight loss, as you build muscle, you’ll burn calories faster! Muscle burns calories, even at rest. Time to join the lads at the bench press. Plus, you want to be that toned bikini babe at the beach this summer, right?

8. The Best Time to Work Out

So you might have heard it’s best to work out in the morning on an empty stomach, or night time, or 1am (just kidding). There are some great reasons to work out in the morning, but a workout is better than no workout. If you struggle to wake up early in the morning and love an evening workout, do it! If you can think of nothing worse than finishing work and having to head to the gym, then morning it is! Maybe you even like going in your lunch break. Whatever you enjoy most, and gets you moving is the right time for YOU!

Oh, and how could I forget the most important tip of all. No matter what size or shape you are this summer, remember you look smokin’.

Written by Monique Sparks

The post 8 Tips to Rock Your Bikini (or Board Shorts) in Summer appeared first on Usana Health Sciences Organization.

Whether you’re working with barbells or your own bodyweight, we highly recommend at least a moderate amount of cardiovascular exercise along with a compound bodybuilding program that hits your chest, back, core, and legs. After all, you don’t want to be that guy or girl who does bicep curls in the squat rack for hours on end with nothing to show for it other than a bruised ego. (You don’t do curls in the squat rack, do you?)

Here are five underrated exercises that can bring out the beast within you:

1. Barbell Low Bar Squats

When performed with a full range of motion, the barbell low bar squat will not only strengthen your legs, core, and back but release hormones that facilitate growth all over your entire body. Many muscles work together simultaneously: Though your legs and core are doing most of the lifting, your upper body is working to keep the bar stable on your shoulders.

Get under the bar and position it onto your upper back; your back will support most of the weight, and your hands will simply be along for the ride. Turn your feet out at a slight angle and keep them flat on the floor. Remember to keep a neutral spine throughout the entire movement and keep your head in line with your torso.

Once you’ve cleared the rack, squat below parallel — think of sitting back onto a chair. Push your knees to the side and make sure they don’t go past your toes. Return to the starting position and repeat for five sets of five reps to build big, strong legs.

2. Rowing

Rowing is a great low-impact cardiovascular exercise that can work out your entire body. U.S. Olympic rowing coach Mike Teti touts the benefits of rowing because it requires “equal effort from both your lower and your upper body, which could lead to greater gains in overall cardiovascular fitness.”

3. Inverted Rows

Inverted rows are great for anyone looking to have a firm back and require little more than either a bar or a set of Olympic rings. Best of all, anyone can perform this integral compound exercise.

Simply position a bar to waist height or adjust two rings accordingly. Grab the bar with your palms facing away from you and pull yourself to the bar, making sure that it touches your chest on every rep, as if you’re doing a push-up in reverse. Lower yourself back down and repeat.

4. Hex-Bar Deadlifts

There are three things that are certain in life: death, taxes, and the presence of all kinds of heavy objects that you may need to lift off the ground. Nothing helps you do that and builds power all over your body quite like the deadlift, which is a staple of military organizations such as the United States Army Rangers and many professional athletes like Stephen Curry. According to Business Insider, the NBA MVP can deadlift more than twice his own body weight.

You can perform the deadlift with either a barbell or a hex bar, but physical trainer and professional bodybuilder Greg Nuckols argues that the hex bar variation is safer, easier to learn, and more practical for other strenuous activities aside from lifting.

Start by positioning yourself in the middle of the bar and gripping the handles to your sides. Your arms should stay locked and motionless throughout the movement because your legs and back will be the main movers. Keep a neutral spine, making sure that your head stays in line with your torso, and ensure that your knees track your feet throughout the entire exercise rather than collapsing inward.

Next, lift your chest and simply stand up with the bar in your hands. Whether you’re working with a barbell or a hex bar, protect your upper body by refraining from shrugging or leaning back at the top of the movement. Return to the starting position and repeat.

5. Pull-ups

Just about every elite military and law enforcement organization in the world uses pull-ups to gauge the mettle of prospective recruits, and that’s because there are few exercises that can do more for your upper body. The legendary Arnold Schwarzenegger did at least 50 to failure on his back days, dividing them up among as few sets as possible, to toughen up his lats and shoulders. Best of all: It can be done almost anywhere.

Position yourself under a high bar and simply pull yourself upward using only your upper body muscles without swinging your legs to assist you. Use different grips to target different muscles: Wider-grip pull-ups can help build a bigger, wider back, closer-grip pull-ups can toughen up your forearms.

If you’re new to pull-ups, you can either perform lat pull-downs using a machine or perform the movement with a buddy holding your lower legs to make things easier.

Written by Eric Bogy

The post 5 Underrated Exercises You Should Do More Often appeared first on Usana Health Sciences Organization.

It’s true, your life is busy. But by making exercise a priority, you can find time for it. Schedule your workout in for first thing in the morning, so that life doesn’t get in the way or wake up a little earlier to squeeze it in. Otherwise, take a power walk in your work break, or incorporate it into your daily commute to work or where ever you’re usually travelling.

2. I hate going alone.

Find a work-out buddy! I promise that you won’t be the only one wanting to work-out, and your future fitness friend will probably be really flattered that you’ve asked (and grateful that they aren’t all on their own either)!

3. My kids get in the way.

Wake up before your kids get up and workout. It might not sound appealing to you, but many parents say that this is the best time they’ve found to get alone time and work uninterruptedly on their fitness.

Alternatively, you could workout with your kids. While they’re playing do some laps around the park… or even play with them. You’re never too old for biking, hiking and playing games.

4. It’s boring.

So, perhaps an hour on the treadmill isn’t for you? It’s not for me either! But let me tell you a little secret… There are so many ways to exercise, so you don’t have to restrict yourself to the treadmill!

Find an activity that you find fun! I’ve never seen anyone leaving a Zumba class looking bored, just sayin’. You could try adult gymnastics (yes, it’s a thing, get excited), biking, boxing, cycling, dancing, ice-skating, playground climbing, rock climbing, rollerblading, swimming, skiing, surfing… *deep inhale*… I think you get the point. Find your fun workout and make everyone envious.

5. I’m too fat.

It’s never too late to change your lifestyle, and remember small progress is always better than no progress. Start gradually with a low impact activity, such as walking or swimming, and just keep at it! We’re backing you 100%.

6. I’m already thin.

You’re outside looks healthy, but you want your insides to look healthy too. Being thin, doesn’t automatically equate to healthy. You’re not exercising to lose weight, but make sure you set clear goals for yourself to keep you motivated, such as running 5k or toning up!

7. My back hurts.

Back pain is the worst, but don’t take to bed, get active about your problem. Speak to your doctor or medical professional about stretches and exercises you can do to help with your back pain. Exercise can even help treat or prevent lower back pain. ¹

Bonus Tip!

Fitness apps can be a great way to get motivated and set goals, especially if you’re just getting started on your health journey. Our USANA pals in America compiled a list of favourite apps including MyFitnessPal, Sworkit, Couch to 5k, and Zombie, Run! Head over and read more about these by clicking here.

So, ditch the excuses! Make it a priority, make it fun, and get out there.

Written by Monique Sparks

The post 7 Exercise Excuses You Need to Stop Making appeared first on Usana Health Sciences Organization.

1. Prepare for The Weather

We all know New Zealand weather can change in the blink of an eye at the best of times, but during Autumn it’s even less predictable. Don’t let this hold you back or keep you indoors!

Layer Your Clothing if you’re exercising outdoors. This means you won’t freeze after stepping out your door, and you won’t overheat after your blood starts pumping. For your first layer, preferably opt for a fabric that wicks moisture away from your skin, so you’re not exercising with wet fabric clinging to you. Add another layer for warmth which you can remove after you get your sweat on. Then finally, a protective layer, like a windbreaker or raincoat.

Stand out with reflective active wear! As the days get darker, don’t let this be an excuse for not getting out there and pushing towards your fitness goals. I know you don’t need a reason to update your active wear. It’s not just me that loooooves shopping for active wear, right? You could also bring a flash light with you. Be safe and get your glow on!

P.S. If you don’t get the below reference click here to head over and watch this video for a little giggle.

Who doesn’t love active wear?

2. Pump Up Your Playlist

Music helps you get in the zone and distracts you from feeling like your legs are going to fall off. Sprinting on the treadmill to Jump Around beats running in silence any day. You don’t want to lose motivation from listening to the same old boring music. Let the changing season inspire you to switch up your workout playlist!

3. Take Advantage of the Weather

Crisp air, beautiful foliage, crunchy leaves. Autumn can be a great time to exercise outside, and enjoy the beautiful colours and cooler weather. Perhaps, skip the gym and head out for a walk, hike or cycle… while you still can!

4. Protect Your Skin

While you’re taking advantage of the weather, take care of your skin. The sun is strongest in the summer months, but you need to protect your skin all year around, especially in New Zealand and Australia’s harsh sun, due to the ozone hole over Antarctica. You can protect and nourish your skin by wearing a protective daytime moisturiser like USANA’s Daytime Protective Emulsion and top up with sun-block when you’re heading outdoors.

5. Nutritional Supplements

Colder weather means it’s the perfect time to consider taking some immune boosting nutritional supplements. You’re likely going to be less inclined to go for a run if you’re a snivelling, feverish mess and we don’t blame you!

The Three P’s

 Proglucamune

 Proglucamune is a unique formulation with four powerful ingredients for optimal immune function and improved well-being. It contains a certified organic blend of medicinal mushrooms (reishi and shiitake), combined with the InCelligence Beta-Glucan Complex, plus zinc to help boost immunity by strengthening your immune cells. These ingredients have a long history of use, which is confirmed by clinical studies. These studies show these ingredients support the body’s natural immune defences, help to counteract the effects of stress, and enhance energy levels.

 Poly C

 Poly C is USANA’s vitamin C supplement with bioflavonoids for enhanced bioavailability. It provides 600mg of vitamin C protection in each tablet for enhanced antioxidant protection, strengthening the immune system and supporting the synthesis of collagen.

Proflavanol ® C 100

 Proflavanol C 100 has a potent antioxidant formula based on a synergistic combination of grape seed extract and Poly C.  This creates superior antioxidant protection using USANA’s breakthrough Nutritional Hybrid Technology. The procyanidins found in grape seed extract, together with the Poly C, help support and maintain a normal, healthy immune system and function. Proflavanol also supports cardiovascular health and maintains healthy skin. Plus, the grapeseed gives it a delicious taste.

Now you’re set to face Autumn with your fluro wardrobe, pumped up playlist and USANA supplements, nothing can stop you!

Written by Monique Sparks 

The post The Key to Staying Active in Autumn appeared first on Usana Health Sciences Organization.

Before I get into it, I’ll briefly go over what Yoga is. Originating in ancient India, it is a series of stretches and poses accompanied by breathing techniques. Yoga really is what you make it. It can be as difficult or as easy as you want. It can be meditative and relaxing, or it can be energetic. There are so many different variations!

Why You Should Practice Yoga

1. It helps your mind, body and soul. It can help strengthen and stretch your muscles as well as be relaxing and meditative. There is growing evidence that supports that yoga has physical and mental health benefits. “Twenty-six healthy adults age 20–58 (Mean 31.8) participated in six weeks of either astanga yoga or hatha yoga class. Significant improvements at follow-up were noted for all participants in diastolic blood pressure, upper body and trunk dynamic muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, perceived stress, and health perception. The improvements differed for each group when compared to baseline assessments. The astanga yoga group had decreased diastolic blood pressure and perceived stress, and increased upper body and trunk dynamic muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, and health perception” (Cowen & Adams, 2005)¹.
2. Almost anyone can do it. It can be a very gentle exercise and the poses can be adapted to suit different ages and fitness levels.
3. Yoga can help improve a number of conditions from lower back pain to depression.²
4. Improve balance and stability. There are many balancing poses which require you to use your core muscle. Thus, helping improve your overall stability.
5. Improve posture. Yoga poses strengthen and open tight areas of the body like the shoulders and muscles of the upper back. This can help you keep good posture.

How to Get Started

It’s simple and easy to find a yoga class! You can check out your local gym, yoga studio, dance studio, health club, or community centre. There are even online tutorials you can do at home. You might want to try classes with a few different instructors until you find one that suits you.

We have a yoga class 8am-9am on Wednesday 22 March 2017 at our office – Level 1, 93 Ascot Ave, Greenlane. Come along if you are interested in trying it out! It’s just $10 cash. To register or for more information please email me on [email protected]

Yoga is personally one of my favorite ways to exercise! Even if I’m not doing an entire class, most days I incorporate yoga stretches into my day to help with any muscle pains, particularly in my back. It also gives me a sense of gratitude and peace. If you haven’t already, consider trying it out! If you have any concerns or medical issues, like any other exercise, make sure you talk to your doctor first.

Written by Monique Sparks

The post Why You Should Practice Yoga appeared first on Usana Health Sciences Organization.

Here are our favourite tips to get you more active in the office or where ever you are sitting!

Transport

Kill two birds with one stone, by getting some fitness into your day and travelling at the same time. It beats sitting in traffic!

There are loads of options, like these…

• Walking. If you’re lucky enough to live close enough!
• Cycling (or if you live too far away, catch a train, bus, ferry or even drive your car some of the way and cycle the rest!)
• Public transport. If you catch the bus, train or ferry, you’re probably going to have to do some walking to get there.
• Park your car further away. If driving is the best option for you, leave a little earlier and walk the rest of the way from your car. It’s an easy way to get more steps into your day!

Create Reasons to Get Up

The best way to make sure you get up often? Make it necessary! Move the bin away. Only have a small glass of water on your desk so that you have to fill it up often. Move your folders so that they’re out of reach. Pretty much, just put anything and everything out of reach so that it makes you get up and move more often!

Take The Stairs

In other words, go the long way. You can also apply this same logic and get up to talk to colleagues rather than sending an email.

Photo cred: Everyday Health http://www.everydayhealth.com/weight-pictures/10-ways-to-exercise-at-work-1028.aspx#05

Switch it for a Swiss Ball

You know the big round exercise balls that they have at the gym? Switch your chair for one of these! Unlike sitting in a chair, an exercise ball can help engage your core muscles, improve balance, and posture. Another bonus is that it means you can easily do a mini work-out when you’re stuck waiting for a few minutes.

If bouncing on an exercise ball all day doesn’t sound fun to you, here’s another secret. Sitting on the edge of your chair helps you to sit straighter too!

Lunch is for Food & Walking

Venture outside for a walk in your break! You could even pack lunches which are easy to eat while you walk. Now that’s what we call efficiency!

Can’t stand sitting? Then Stand!

Use an app or alarm on your phone to remind you to regularly stand up during the day. “Standing up once every hour was more effective than walking on a treadmill for 15 minutes for cardiovascular and metabolic changes.” – Dr. Mercola.

Hopefully this helps you to fit more fitness into your day and helps you to become the healthiest you can be!

Written by Monique Sparks

The post How To Prevent ‘Sitting Disease’ appeared first on Usana Health Sciences Organization.

It started in 1992 with the USANA^® Essentials—antioxidants in optimal doses—and continues to Olivol^® and self-preserving skin care and Nutritional Hybrid Technology and the True Health Assessment and USANA MySmartFoods. And we’re missing almost as many as we listed.

Who are the people behind USANA’s expertise:

Kevin Spelman

The PhD that follows Kevin Spelman’s name already says a lot. Those three letters represent a rarified level of knowledge. But painting a full picture of the expertise of USANA’s executive vice president of research and development requires much more.

Kevin Spelman, PhD, post-doctoral fellow at the National Institutes of Health, Marie Curie fellow in the European Union, former advisor to the White House Commission of Complementary and Alternative Medicine, publisher of 27 scientific papers, and 30-year veteran of the natural-products industry.

We sat down with Dr. Spelman to find out more about him, the amazing team of scientists at USANA, and what innovation means to him.

When did you know you wanted to be a scientist?

Early on, as a young child. I can’t give you an age. I was always interested in the way things worked. I was especially interested in biology, the wonderment of life. This sometimes got me in trouble with my parents. I once built an ant farm in the bathtub when I was quite young.

What was it about biology that sparked some inspiration for you?

Life is juicy. For me, chemistry was fascinating, but too dry. Biology gave chemistry meaning to me. I’m just fascinated by life, whether it’s social structures, the xenohormetic physiological cues from our surrounding environment, the molecular pathways of our bodies’ web of life, or the network nature of ecology. I’m fascinated by all of it, particularly on a molecular level. I tend to think on a molecular level, as well as from the 30,000-foot view.

Why did you want to focus on nutrition?

My own health, actually. I was frequently ill as a child. In my early 20s, I started really getting interested in what type of foods I was eating and the impact it was having on me. It made a huge difference in my health and made me understand that there was much more to health than what our medical community knew.

You have so much amazing experience. What made you choose USANA?

Honestly, Dr. Wentz. Seeing that USANA really is based in science—and everybody says that—but USANA really came from a scientist’s conception of wanting to improve human health. After hearing Dr. Wentz’ story, he won me over.

What do you think sets USANA apart scientifically?

The quality of our R&D team. We have some very thoughtful and critically thinking scientists in the R&D department that really want the very best for every product that goes out. I’ve been in natural products for 30 years. It is unfortunate that R&D teams are more than occasionally an illusory part of supplement companies. Our R&D team is real, hardcore, and well-funded. We spend a lot of resources getting everything just right. The fact that we have pharmaceutical-grade GMPs was another thing that won me over. I thought to myself, “USANA is really serious about their quality control.” Our QC is just spot-on in terms of pharmaceutical GMPs. I think those are the things that really set us apart.

Why is it so important to ground our products in scientific research and not just chase trends?

We’re not a member of the molecule of the month club. We want something real. We want something that’s going to last. We want something that’s really going to improve people’s health over long-term use. Trends often don’t do that.

Rachel A. Brewer, PhD, senior scientist specializing in microbiome research

How did you start to add to the R&D team?

We started with a preexisting base of excellent scientists, so that was an important piece. Then we hunted for the brightest minds we could find. Since we already had a good foundation with some highly experienced and intelligent scientists, and then we added a microbiome expert to our R&D team, we have generated an extraordinary and exciting innovative potential.

What does Dr. Wentz’ vision mean to you?

It means that he’s really got his heart and his mind in the right place. He was innovative early on, in a way that nobody else was, and he took a chance, a risk, and it turned out to be the right thing to do. I think that’s one of the things I keep having to remind myself and the team is that we have to push our comfort level. Innovation is stepping into the unknown. We are not interested in “me too” products.

Why is innovation so important to you and to USANA?

I think because our Associates see that we are leading the way in nutritional science and they expect that. And the only way we’re going to continue to lead the way is to be innovative and to step into uncharted territory. It is my goal that USANA continues to disrupt the natural products industry by putting out novel products based on cutting-edge research in the nutritional sciences. We have everything in place to be 15 strides ahead of our competition.

Continuing the Legacy

It’s time to lengthen that timeline, because we aren’t done innovating.

We really just can’t help ourselves. Right now, in a building on the west side of Salt Lake City, another major evolution is in the works. And it’s a big one.

Do we know what it is? Sure we do. Have we been sworn to secrecy about it? You could say that. But we can tell you when it will be unveiled: August 25, 2016, at the USANA International Convention. See you there!

The post USANA NZ UNLOCK THE VISION – DREAM TEAM appeared first on Usana Health Sciences Organization.

Consuming a proper balance of macronutrients— protein, fats, and carbohydrates—is crucial to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. With that in mind USANA has created a new range of MySmartBars, and with each bar we’re delivering highquality, complete proteins and beneficial fat from coconut oil.

By combining our new snack range with our core products the USANA Essentials or USANA HealthPak you can balance both your macro and micronutrients for optimal nutrition.

At USANA, optimal levels are the only acceptable levels, and optimal levels come from the USANA Essentials and HealthPak. These foundational products provide the right levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support your overall health. Of course you can personalise your micronutrients even further by adding additional USANA supplements and optimisers to suit your needs such as our BiOmega and Proflavanol®C100 for heart health, HepaPlus for digestive health, Proglucamune for everyday immune support or Visionex for healthy eyes. No matter what your nutritional needs are USANA has a combination which will work for you!

So what makes the MySmartBars so smart? Each bar is made with simple, pure ingredients to create a beneficial balance of macronutrients. They are packed with high quality Whey/Milk protein, healthy fats from coconut oil and have no refined sugars. At only 150 Calories or less they are great to eat in between meals or after workout. The MySmartBars come in two delicious flavours Coconut Cashew and Dark Chocolate.

Get smart about your nutrtion and make sure you’re body is running at it’s best. A great start is with USANA Essentials or USANA HealthPak, and our delicious MySmartBars.

The MySmartBars range will be on sale in New Zealand in July 2016. To learn more visit www.usana.com or check out our Facebook page.

The post SMART NUTRITION – MY SMART BARS AND USANA NUTRITIONALS appeared first on Usana Health Sciences Organization.

MySmartBars aren’t your average snack. They’re made with simple, pure ingredients to create a beneficial balance of macronutrients and are packed with whole food ingredients, protein, organic coconut oil and more! MySmartBars come in two delicious Coconut Cashew and Dark Chocolate.

So what it so important about wholefoods and what are the benefits?

Whole foods are foods that are closest to their natural state and that means they give us more nutrients than highly refined foods. They are often made up of grains, nuts, seeds, beans, and legumes.

Whole foods contain a wide variety of nutrients in one food. These nutrients include phytonutrients, essential fatty acids and fibre. Whole foods are also rich in essential vitamins, minerals that cannot be synthesised in the body and therefore have to be obtained through diet.

Some of the benefits you will see from eating more whole foods include:

Better Digestion: Whole foods are high in fibre which is an essential nutrient for healthy digestion, and heart health combined. Whole foods are full of natural insoluble and soluble fiber to support digestion and regularity, along with keep you full.

More Satisfaction: Whole foods are delicious and filling. Their wide range means you can choose lots of different things to eat without the added nasties. After eating them your body is able to digest easily and best of all you’re not left feeling sluggish or over full, but instead satisfied and healthy.

Next time you’re thinking about eating that donut or chocolate bar, grab a MySmartBar instead. Know that you are making the smart choice for your health.We only have one body, so we need to feed it the best food we can.

MySmartBar sale date yet to be determined.

References:

http://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/news-story/fb54be4ff6a8c96c20954a97c1334c27

http://www.onegreenplanet.org/natural-health/quick-benefits-youll-see-by-switching-to-whole-foods-plant-based-diet/

The post DELICIOUS GUILT-FREE AFTERNOON SNACK – USANA’S MY SMART™BARS appeared first on Usana Health Sciences Organization.

This is why USANA’s MySmartBars are a great way to get the nutrition you need. These delicious foods contain coconut oil, an excellent source of naturally occurring saturated fats, and contain a beneficial balance of other macronutrients to fuel your body and leave you feeling satisfied.

Coconut Oil: MySmart Choice!

Not all fats are created equal. Coconut oil is primarily made up of medium-chain triacylglycerols (MCTs). These types of fatty acids are processed differently by the body than its cousin the long-chain triacylglycerols (LCTs), which are found primarily in animal foods (saturated fat). Coconut oil doesn’t seem to raise your cholesterol and is more likely to be burned as energy than stored as blubber. Why? Because MCTs are oxidised to a greater degree and more efficiently than are LCTs, and have less of an opportunity for deposition into adipose (fatty) tissue.

 A fat that doesn’t make you fat. Consumption of MCT’s from coconut oil has been shown to increase metabolism through an increase in thermogenesis. Thermogenesis is the body’s ability to produce heat which therefore allows the body to utilise more energy.

Coconut oil can be used as a tool in weight reduction. An increase in metabolism and energy utilisation means the body burns more fuel, ie. fat. This demonstrates coconut oil’s utility as a novel weight reduction tool. A study of 30 men in the journal Pharmacology found that just 2 tablespoons per day reduced waist circumference by an average of 1.1 inches over the course of a month.

Coconut oil keeps you fuller for longer. Feeling full is another benefit of consuming coconut oil, this also adds to the oil’s ability to help reduce weight.

How to get more coconut oil into your diet

Besides eating our MySmartBars, there are heaps of ways you can use coconut oil. Try adding it your coffees, salad dressing and use it when baking. At roughly 117 calories per tablespoon, coconut oil is a near identical caloric swap for olive oil. It also has a high smoke point makes coconut oil great for just about every dish, from eggs to stir-frys.

It’s a fat that can help you lose weight, get a smaller waist line, plus it keeps you fuller for longer. What more could you want!

References:

Weight-loss diet that includes consumption of medium-chain triacylglycerol oil leads to a greater rate of weight and fat mass loss than does olive oil Marie-Pierre St-Onge and Aubrey Bosarge Am J Clin Nutr. 2008 Mar; 87(3): 621–626. Effects of Margarine Containing Medium-chain Triacylglycerols on Body Fat Reduction in Humans Naohisa Nosaka, Hideaki Maki, Yoshie Suzuki, Hirofumi Haruna, Atsushi Ohara, Michio Kasai, Hiroaki Tsuji, Toshiaki Aoyama, Mitsuko Okazaki, Osamu Igarashi and Kazuo Kondo Journal of Atherosclerosis and Thrombosis Vol. 10 (2003) No. 5 P 290-298 Thermic effect of medium-chain and long-chain triglycerides in man.Seaton TB, Welle SL, Warenko MK, Campbell RG.  Am J Clin Nutr November 1986 vol. 44 no. 5 630-634 Thermogenesis in humans during overfeeding with medium-chain triglycerides. Physiological effects of medium-chain triglycerides: potential agents in the prevention of obesity. St-Onge MP1, Jones PJ. J Nutr. 2002 Mar;132(3):329-32. Weight-loss diet that includes consumption of medium-chain triacylglycerol oil leads to a greater rate of weight and fat mass loss than does olive oil.  St-Onge MP Bosarge A. Am J Clin Nutr. 2008 Mar;87(3):621-6. Effects of dietary coconut oil on the biochemical and anthropometric profiles of women presenting abdominal obesity. Assunção ML, Ferreira HS, dos Santos AF, Cabral CR Jr, Florêncio TM. Lipids. 2009 Jul;44(7):593-601. doi: 10.1007/s11745-009-3306-6. Epub 2009 May 13 An Open-Label Pilot Study to Assess the Efficacy and Safety of Virgin Coconut Oil in Reducing Visceral Adiposity Kai Ming Liau,  Yeong Yeh Lee, Chee Keong Chen,  and Aida Hanum G. Rasool  ISRN Pharmacol. 2011; 2011: 949686.  doi:  10.5402/2011/949686 Covert manipulation of the ratio of medium- to long-chain triglycerides in isoenergetically dense diets: effect on food intake in ad libitum feeding men. Stubbs RJ, Harbron CG. Int J Obes Relat Metab Disord. 1996 May;20(5):435-44. Substrate oxidation and control of food intake in men after a fat-substitute meal compared with meals supplemented with an isoenergetic load of carbohydrate, long-chain triacylglycerols, or medium-chain triacylglycerols. Van Wymelbeke V, Louis-Sylvestre J, Fantino M. Am J Clin Nutr. 2001 Nov;74(5):620-30. Influence of medium-chain and long-chain triacylglycerols on the control of food intake in men. Van Wymelbeke V, Himaya A, Louis-Sylvestre J, Fantino M. Am J Clin Nutr. 1998 Aug;68(2):226-34. Impact of medium and long chain triglycerides consumption on appetite and food intake in overweight men. St-Onge MP, Mayrsohn B, O’Keeffe M, Kissileff HR, Choudhury AR, Laferrère B. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2014 Oct;68(10):1134-40. doi: 10.1038/ejcn.2014.145. Epub 2014 Jul 30. http://www.eatthis.com/10-daily-habits-blast-belly-fat http://www.doctoroz.com/gallery/99-amazing-uses-coconut-oil

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