Author: CF Clinical Nutrition

Celebrate National Nutrition Month With Us

Post author By CF Clinical Nutrition
Post date March 14, 2023
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Did you know that March is National Nutrition Month? Each year, March is celebrated as National Nutrition Month^®. National Nutrition Month^® was started 50 years ago by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. During the month of March, everyone is invited to learn about making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits. This year’s theme is “Fuel for the Future.” Eating with sustainability in mind is a tasty way to nourish ourselves during every phase of life and protect the environment.

Tip 1: Stay Hydrated with CF(Rehydrate)®

One way to practice healthful habits is to stay hydrated. Drinking enough water is crucial to our overall health. Water has so many important roles in the body like regulating body temperature, carrying nutrients and oxygen to cells, flushing toxins from the body, and lubricating and cushioning joints.

Water is an essential part of human health. However, our bodies are made up of much more than just H2O. An adequate balance of water and electrolytes is crucial for many of our body’s most important functions. Electrolytes are minerals (sodium, potassium, magnesium, etc.) that are involved in an abundance of internal events, such as neurotransmission and maintaining a balanced pH in the blood. CF(Rehydrate)® is an excellent source of concentrated electrolytes for medical grade hydration.

CF(Rehydrate)® is a natural electrolyte replacement drink designed for medical-grade hydration. Free from artificial colors, flavors, and sugars, CF(Rehydrate)® delivers the electrolytes and essential hydration you need, without the harmful additives found in sports drinks and other hydration products. Sometimes, there are times when we need to be extra careful about our hydration status. Today, we break down three essential times to stay hydrated with CF(Rehydrate)®.

Tip 2: Make More Days Plant Based

Another way to make more healthful decisions this month is to go plant based one day a week. Following a plant based diet and reducing your intake of animal products can be a great change if you typically eat a lot of animal products. This can help keep your heart healthy.

Unlike other mainstream products, CF Nutrition products are suitable for vegetarians and vegans. They are all certified vegan, halal, and kosher and do not contain gluten. Our products also do not contain the most common allergens, including milk, lactose, peanuts and tree nuts, soy, eggs, casein or whey. CF(Protein)® uses plant protein that is easily digested with yellow pea protein, contributing a significant amino acid dose that promotes muscle recovery and repair.

Tip 3: Fill up on Fiber

Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that the body cannot digest. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, keep blood glucose levels in the normal range, and helps increase satiety which can support weight management. The recommended daily intake (RDA) for total fiber for men and women 19-50 years of age is 38 grams/day and 25 grams/day, respectively. The RDA for men and women over 51 is 31gram/day and 21 grams/day, respectively.

Most Americans do not consume enough dietary fiber. On average, Americans consume about 15 grams of fiber per day, far lower than the RDA, regardless of age or gender. The best ways to increase fiber intake are choosing whole grains whenever possible, consuming legumes and beans, and increasing fruit and vegetable intake. Drinking CF(Protein)® can help support you in achieving the RDA for fiber, as it contains 13 grams per one 8 ounce bottle.

Examples of foods with fiber are:

Oatmeal
Nuts
Beans
Lentils
Apples
Blueberries
Wheat
Whole wheat bread
Whole grain
Couscous
Brown rice
Legume
Carrots
Cucumbers
Tomatoes

Now you have 3 tips to make healthful decisions this March to celebrate National Nutrition Month^®– head to our blog for more tips and tricks on making healthy decisions!

CF Nutrition Pairs With Goldfinch Health to Help Reduce Opioid Use Post Surgery

Post author By CF Clinical Nutrition
Post date March 2, 2023
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The overuse of opioids after surgery has become a worldwide issue. Though important after surgery to reduce pain, opioids have become misused causing chronic use and addiction. Goldfinch Health has designed a program to help reduce the use of opioids post surgery. They have teamed up with CF Nutrition to include CF(Preop)® as part of their Prepared for Surgery Toolkit. Today, we break down what the program and kit entails and how it may help millions with opioid addiction.

What is the Billion Pill Pledge Program?

The Billion Pill Pledge Program was designed to help reduce the need for opioids post surgery. Opioids are important and serve a purpose in reducing pain after surgery. However, over the years, the use of opioids after surgery has developed into misuse and addiction affecting the lives of many. The mission of the Billion Pill Pledge Program is to help resolve this crisis by implementing Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS®) protocols, like the use of CF(Preop)®, to reduce the need for opioids. The Billion Pill Pledge Program is currently in the pilot phase and has rolled out into 4 rural hospitals in Iowa.

The program was designed by Goldfinch Health and the cofounder John Greenwood aims to remove billions of unused opioids with the program. With this program, patients are given a care package before their procedure.

The care package includes:

Ice and heat packs
A drug disposal bag
One bottle of CF(Preop)®

The goal of the kit is to reduce pain using non-addictive procedures so that the need for opioids is eliminated or at least reduced.

How will CF(Preop)® help reduce opioid use?

The intention of Goldfinch Health in including CF(Preop)® is to help the patient’s pain tolerance. CF(Preop)® is a clear, colorless drink specifically formulated by an anesthesiologist for safe consumption hours before surgery. CF(Preop)® is formulated for surgery and meets the ASA® requirements to make it safe for consumption before your surgery. Choosing to drink CF(Preop)® before your surgery helps you feel back to normal as soon as possible.

The main ERAS® principles include protocols for preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative care. All ERAS® protocols aim to lessen the body’s response to surgical trauma and maintain normal physiological function during surgery. Preoperative carbohydrate loading with CF(Preop)® is one of the preoperative principles of ERAS®. The American Society of Anesthesia has promoted the use of clear carbohydrate beverages up to 2 hours before surgery to help reduce dehydration among patients.

Non-opioid oral analgesia NSAID is one of the postoperative protocols in ERAS®. The more ERAS® principles observed throughout the patient’s surgical journey, the better the chances for a smooth recovery with reduced complications. All ERAS® protocols are evidence-based and require patient education as well as a knowledgeable team approach.

CF Nutrition is beyond excited to be a part of the Billion Pill Pledge Initiative to help save the lives of many and reduce the opioid crisis worldwide.

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CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ at Healthy Edge Stores Across the Country

Post author By CF Clinical Nutrition
Post date February 22, 2023
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If you have been following along, you know that CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ is available at all Central Market locations across the state of Texas. Since expanding into retail stores in November of 2021, we have now grown even more. CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ is now available across the country at Healthy Edge Stores.

Where is CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ available?

CF(Rehydrate® Immunity+ is now available at the following Healthy Edge Stores:

Akin’s Natural Foods
Chamberlin’s Natural Foods
Earth Origins Market

So, if you live in Florida, Oklahoma, Mississippi, or Arkansas you can find CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ in stores now! Click this link to see all store location details.

What exactly is CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+?

CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ is a natural electrolyte drink with immune-boosting ingredients. Formulated with functional vitamins, minerals, nutrients, and naturally-sourced electrolytes—and free from harmful dyes and additives—it offers a clean, clinical-grade, colorless option for replenishing and rehydrating on the go.

What makes the CF(Rehydrate)® drink different?

With a nutrient profile featuring key electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals, CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ provides the nutrition and hydration you won’t get from water alone—while leaving out the synthetics, sugars, and dyes you will get with traditional sports drinks and other hydration beverages on the market.⁠ It’s also specifically formulated to support a strengthened immune system and enhanced general wellness.

How should I use CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ ?

Whether you’re traveling, working out, recovering from a night of fun, fighting a flu, experiencing a bout of stress, or pregaming for the weekend ahead—there are countless reasons and seasons to reach for a half liter bottle of our rehydration drink. With less than 1 gram of sugar per each half liter—and none of the synthetics or additives you’ll find in other rehydrate drinks—its intentional formulation rapidly replenishes lost fluids and essential electrolytes, including those lost quickly through sweat and illness. A few times clinical-grade hydration is absolutely called for? When…

Fighting a cold or flu
Recovering from illness or surgery
Preventing or easing a hangover
Traveling locally or abroad
Experiencing altitude sickness or dehydration
Fueling up for—or recovering from—a workout

Who is CF(Rehydrate)® drink for?

Medical-grade hydration is something everyone needs on a regular basis—but we find it’s become a regular fan favorite amongst the following groups…

Parents: Available in Aloha Blend, Orange, and Kiwi Strawberry, little ones tend to love the taste of CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+—and parents appreciate the fact that it’s not only natural, clean, and clinical-grade….but free from harmful neon dyes that make a mess of clothes and cars. The best part? Immune-boosting ingredients like vitamin c, vitamin d, zinc, and magnesium promote optimal immune health and wellness for the whole family—while naturally-sourced electrolytes make for quick-and-effective replenishment, minus all of the added sugar.

Whether it’s fighting dehydration while you balance managing your career and shuttling the kids to-and-from school—or needing something you can quickly hand to your child without worrying about a questionable ingredient profile or impending sugar crash—CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ is a parent’s best friend when it comes to feeling great about the way you fuel your family.

Athletes, Runners, Yogis, and Cyclists: Even the best sweat sessions can leave you feeling depleted and drained. The problem with most post-workout options? Water alone just won’t cut it when it comes to quickly replacing the electrolytes you lost—and reaching for a traffic-cone-orange, sugar-packed sports drink means undoing all of the hard work you just put in to cleanse your body. A half liter bottle of CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ offers athletes, yogis, runners, and every active person in between a healthy, effective way to treat your body to complete clinical-grade replenishment.

Anyone wanting to hydrate more effectively: From keeping your energy levels, mood, and brain function up—to boosting your immune system, preventing hangovers, and relieving constipation—the benefits of staying properly hydrated are endless. That’s why our team of medical professionals and beverage scientists here at CF Nutrition specifically formulated CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ to offer everyone a tasty, on-the-go, next-level clinical hydration option.

With just 60 calories and < 1 gram of sugar per half liter bottle, a balanced blend of electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals, and three delicious natural flavors to choose from—reaching for a bottle of CF(Rehydrate)® drink ensures you’re well hydrated and properly fueled for whatever life throws your way.

Not from any of these states? No problem. You can order CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ online.

For Med Pros Medical Professionals Presurgery Nutrition Wellness + Medical Tips

Why Do Patients Need More Protein Before Surgery?

Post author By CF Clinical Nutrition
Post date February 7, 2023
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At CF Nutrition, our goal is to help support patients through the entire journey of surgery. This not only includes the days leading up to surgery but the weeks prior to and immediately following surgery. It is crucial to prepare your patients as best as possible in order for them to recover quickly. Protein is a key macronutrient in helping support your patients through surgery.

What is CF(Protein)® ?

CF(Protein )® is a plant-based protein drink that provides a concentrated dose of natural electrolytes, antioxidants, and essential fats. CF(Protein)® is a great choice for anyone who is preparing for, or recovering from surgery. Plant protein is the modern way to give the body the best nutrients with the lowest impact on the digestive system. CF(Protein)® contains13 g of delicious, clean plant protein packed into an 8-oz bottle.

Some benefits of drinking CF(Protein)® are:

· Promote muscle maintenance, repair, and recovery

· Strengthen the immune system

· Reduce risk of malnourishment

· Antioxidants & anti-inflammatory ingredients

· Concentrated nutrition on-the-go

· Healthy omega-3 and omega-6 fats

· Naturally derived vitamins & minerals

· Essential amino acids

· Natural fiber sources

· No artificial colors or flavors

· Shelf-stable

· Gluten-Free, Kosher, Non-GMO, Vegan, Dairy-Free

· Convenient on-the-go protein source

How often should your patient drink CF(Protein)® before and surgery?

Each CF(Protein)® has 13 g of protein per bottle. Prior to surgery, drinking 1-2 bottles per day (in addition to a well-balanced diet) for at least 2 weeks prior to surgery, will help your patient to feel strong and well-nourished for their operation. CF(Protein)® is not designed to be a sole source of nutrition. Therefore, consuming whole foods, high in protein, is recommended before and after surgery in order to meet protein and calorie needs.

What else does CF(Protein)® contain that can support your patient for surgery?

In addition to the protein content in CF(Protein)®, it also contains chia seed oil and turmeric which are anti-inflammatory. These will also help you to ensure your patients are at optimal nutrition status for their surgery as well as strengthen their immune system. The antioxidants in CF(Protein)® will help your patient to fight off diseases and strengthen their immunity.

Are protein needs increased before surgery?

There are a variety of factors that determine specific protein needs. These include age, activity level, chronic diseases, weight, and fitness goals. Typically, someone who is preparing for, or recovering from surgery has increased protein needs. This is to help the body ensure a speedy recovery.

If your patient is malnourished, it is important that you ensure they are consuming adequate calories and protein leading up to their surgery. Nutritional status is crucial prior to surgery. A nutritional assessment should be completed prior to any surgery to reduce the risk for postoperative complications, increased length of stay, and risk for infection. A patient can be diagnosed with mild or severe malnutrition by the MD. A Registered Dietitian can also assess the patient for mild to severe malnutrition.

The following criteria from Academy Adult Malnutrition Criteria (ASPEN) is used to identify moderate malnutrition. A patient must have at least two of following to be diagnosed with moderate malnutrition: weight loss >2% in 1 week, >5% in one month or >7.5% in 3 months; Energy intake less than or equal to 50% compared to estimated needs for greater than or equal to 5 days; Moderate body fat depletion; Moderate muscle mass depletion; Moderate to Severe Fluid Accumulation; and reduced grip strength. Furthermore, a patient must have at least two of the following to be diagnosed with severe malnutrition: Weight loss 1-2% in 1 week, 5% in one month, 7.5% in 3 months; Energy intake <75% compared to estimated needs in 7 days; mild body fat depletion; mild muscle mass depletion; mild fluid accumulation; and reduced grip strength.

What if my patient is malnourished?

It is imperative to correct malnutrition in a patient prior to their surgery. Research proves that malnutrition is a leading reason for poor outcomes postoperative. Studies show that preoperative nutritional deficiency is a strong predictor of 90 days mortality and poor overall survival. Nutrition status can be improved with recommendations from a Registered Dietitian. Common recommendations include high protein supplements such as CF(Protein)®. Other ways to improve nutritional status can include enteral or parenteral nutrition. For obese patients, it is often required to lose excess weight prior to surgery.

How do I determine the protein needs for my patients before surgery?

To determine how much protein your patient needs before or after surgery, take their body weight in kilograms and times it by 1.5 to 2.0.

If your patient’s weight is 150LB.

· Divide the weight in LB by 2.2 to get the weight in kg

o 150/2.2 = 68.2 kg

· Next, multiply the body weight by 1.5 to 2.0

o 68 times 1.5=102; 68 times 2.0=136 g

· They should consume 102-136 g per day of protein

Now that you understand how crucial protein is before surgery, head to our website to order samples or purchase CF(Protein)® today!

Exercise Nutrition

3 Top Times to Stay Hydrated With CF(Rehydrate)®

Post author By CF Clinical Nutrition
Post date January 26, 2023
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CF(Rehydrate )® is a natural electrolyte replacement drink designed for medical-grade hydration. Free from artificial colors, flavors, and sugars, CF(Rehydrate)® delivers the electrolytes and essential hydration you need, without the harmful additives found in sports drinks and other hydration products. Sometimes, there are times when we need to be extra careful about our hydration status. Today, we break down three essential times to stay hydrated with CF(Rehydrate)®.

#1 When You Sweat

When you exercise, you lose a significant amount of vital fluids and key electrolytes. High concentrations of sodium and chloride, and low concentrations of potassium, magnesium and calcium are lost as you sweat. Rapidly replenishing these nutrients with a hydrating drink is essential for recovery.

Electrolytes are essential minerals that help regulate a variety of essential functions throughout the body. The most common electrolytes you will hear about are sodium, potassium, phosphorus and magnesium. If any of these are too high or too low in your body, you may be at risk for health issues. This is because they contribute to the body’s overall pH balance and must be maintained for healthy physiological function. Electrolytes lost in sweat or from illness should be replenished as quickly as possible. Sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, phosphate and bicarbonate are all electrolytes found in your body.

#1 When You Are Pregnant

During pregnancy, many expectant mothers will vomit regularly. You may also experience frequent urination or increased sweating during this time. Increased fluid loss can result in serious dehydration, making you feel even worse. Combat dehydration with natural CF(Rehydrate)® to replenish and restore lost electrolytes, including sodium, potassium and magnesium.

#1 When You Are Hungover

Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it increases urine output and, after a night of drinking, can leave your body extremely dehydrated. This may result in headaches or a variety of other unpleasant symptoms. CF(Rehydrate)® makes bouncing back a breeze with 32 fluid ounces of liquid that is concentrated with electrolytes. This natural beverage provides medical grade hydration, resulting in superior rehydration to sugary sports drinks or water alone.

Now that you know the importance of staying hydrated with CF(Rehydrate)®, what are you waiting for. Visit our website to purchase today.

For Med Pros Preparing for Surgery

CF Nutrition Products During Cancer Treatment

Post author By CF Clinical Nutrition
Post date January 5, 2023
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CF Nutrition products help nourish, hydrate, and better prepare your patients for surgery. Our products may be beneficial to your patients diagnosed with cancer to help them recover faster after surgery and to stay hydrated during treatments.

CF(Preop)® Before a Cancer Procedure

If your patient is undergoing surgery related to their cancer treatment, CF(Preop)® can help them enhance their recovery after surgery. We recommend advising your patients to consume one CF(Preop)® at 8:00 PM the night before their surgery and one CF(Preop)® on the morning of their surgery (up to two hours before surgery/procedure).

ERAS® protocols, specifically preoperative carbohydrate loading before surgery, have shown positive results in recent studies on cancer patients. Often, surgical resection is the only cure for certain types of cancer. During surgery, the body’s stress response increases, inhibiting immune function and increasing inflammatory markers (Wang et al.). In turn, recovery is delayed, and the risk for infection and postoperative complications increases. The goal of ERAS® protocols is to maintain organ function and decrease stress response following surgery. By reducing the stress response, the body will return to normal physiology sooner, which is crucial in cancer patients. Therefore, consuming CF(Preop)® before surgery will allow them to recover from their surgery sooner and decrease the risk for postoperative complications.

CF Nutrition Products During Chemotherapy

If your patient is undergoing chemotherapy, consuming CF(Rehydrate)® throughout their chemotherapy duration can help them replenish their body with medical-grade nutrition and hydration needed to prevent dehydration.

If they are receiving chemotherapy, replenishing their body afterward is crucial. Dehydration is a common side effect of cancer treatments. Additionally, vomiting and diarrhea are also common side effects of chemotherapy which again lead to dehydration. We recommend advising patients to consume CF(Rehydrate)® or CF(Rehydrate)® IMMUNITY+ after their session, along with the days following. In doing so, they will replenish their body with the vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, and fluid they need to feel better as soon as possible. Consuming CF(Rehydrate)® or CF(Rehydrate)® IMMUNITY+ throughout their chemotherapy duration can help your patient to combat chemotherapy’s adverse side effects and prevent dehydration.

Unfortunately, if your patient is receiving chemotherapy, CF(Protein)® may not be recommended. It is important to note CF(Protein)® contains turmeric. Turmeric has blood-thinning properties and may interact with certain chemotherapy medications. When it comes to turmeric, the dosage does make a difference. There is 0.3g of turmeric in one bottle of CF(Protein)®. Curcumin may act as an estrogen hormone. So, it may make hormone-sensitive conditions worse. Although this is not proven, if your patient has any hormone-sensitive need, avoid turmeric or use it with caution and only with MD approval. Hormone-sensitive conditions include breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids.

Now that you know what CF Nutrition products may be right for your patient undergoing a procedure or cancer treatment, head to our website to learn more and receive samples for your patients to try.

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Our Top Tips to Keep the Holidays Healthy

Post author By CF Clinical Nutrition
Post date December 14, 2022
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The holidays are a time to celebrate family, friends, and all we have to be thankful for. But sometimes, with all the celebrations, it becomes hard for us to make healthy decisions. Between holiday parties, christmas coffees, and temptations everywhere- sometimes we find ourselves sabotaging our health.

Top Reasons Why the Holiday Season Can Backtrack Our Results:

Increased alcohol intake
Added refined sugars
More parties and celebrations
Flu and virus season is at its peak
Less time for workouts due to family obligations
The Screw it til New Years Mentality
Prolonging the holiday (ie. celebrating Thanksgiving food Thursday to Monday or celebrating Christmas from Dec 24-Dec 31)
We make the holidays centered around food and drinks rather than family

Healthy Holiday Tip No. 1: Embrace the mocktail.

*Not always, but sometimes

***Problem: Too much alcohol affects your health and leads to weight gain

Disrupts your immune system, ultimately making you more susceptible to flu and virus season
Poor food choices and overconsumption of calories
Empty calories
Hangover which leads to poor food choices and missing workouts the next day

***Solution: You can make the conscious decision to replace every one to two cocktails with a “mocktail” instead. Simply replace the bubbly or spirits your cocktail recipe calls for with club soda or, for the added benefits of probiotics, kombucha.

Healthy Holiday Tip No. 2: Make smart recipe swaps.

***Problem: Overconsumption of refined sugar and holiday classics

Since we are used to following such a simple macro plan when we get in front of holidays classics, it is not uncommon to over do it
Desserts can sometimes be as many calories as you should consume in the entire day
All or nothing mentality
Recipes tend to have extra ingredients and therefore more calories

***Solution:

Moderation is Key. You can have some of the wonderful treats without going overboard. Try a few bites of the desserts you enjoy and allow yourself to feel satisfied without overdoing it.
Be a bit more conscious about all of those holiday classics you’re cooking up. Instead of skipping the pumpkin pie and mashed potatoes all together (we’d never ask you to do that), try making small swaps across the board that, together, make a major difference in your calorie and sugar intake.

Healthy Holiday Tip No. 3: Help your digestive system along

***Problem: Poor eating habits can hinder our digestive system

A healthy digestive system is key for getting optimal nourishment from the foods you eat and ensuring your immune system is working its best
All of those refined carbohydrates, alcohol, and saturated fats can also hamper our digestion

***Solution:

Taking care to help your digestive system along through the holidays is one of the most important things you can do to feel less bloated and more comfortable overall.
- Keep the skins on your potatoes: Vegetables with skins give us the added fiber our bodies need for optimal digestion.
- Opt for a whole-grain roll instead of a white one: Whole-grain foods are rich in fiber, which aids in digestion (as opposed to white breads, which contain processed, refined grains and sugars which can hamper digestion).
- Get plenty of probiotics: From yogurt to kefir and kombucha, make it a point over this holiday season to up your probiotic intake to keep yourself regular and enhance your gut health.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water and clean electrolyte drinks will help you stay hydrated, which is a key part of a well-functioning digestive system. Women should aim for at least 8-11 cups of fluids each day.
- Get your daily greens: Green leafy vegetables are one of the most beneficial foods you can eat for a healthy digestive system. Try using spinach or kale in a salad that typically calls for romaine—or turn potatoes au gratin into spinach au gratin for a treat that’s just as warm and comforting but twice as nice on your digestive system.

Healthy Holiday Tip No. 4: Don’t make excuses to miss work outs and Get Active Daily!

***Problem: We make excuses to miss workouts and don’t get active during the day

We don’t prioritize working out and miss workouts during the holidays

***Solution:

Adjust your movement goals to be more manageable and much more realistic—so they’re less overwhelming and more likely to get you off the coach to achieve them.
Take walks after meals and do active things with the entire family
Prioritize time for your workouts so you can stay on track

Set a goal of doing ten push-ups a day and taking a short one-mile walk around the neighborhood
Do 15 squats while you’re waiting for that pie crust to turn golden-brown in the oven, and then take the laundry up the stairs in two separate loads (rather than all at once) to reap the benefits of tackling that staircase twice

Now that you have all the tips to staying healthy over the holidays- check out our website for more tips and tricks!

Tags holidays

Featured Posts For Med Pros Preparing for Surgery Presurgery Nutrition

What is ERAS®?

ERAS® stands for Enhanced Recovery After Surgery. In the 1990s, Professor Henrik Kehlet founded Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS®), specifically in colorectal surgeries. There is now available research on ERAS in colorectal, vascular, thoracic, urosurgery, spine, neurosurgery, orthopedic, liver, pancreatic, and cardiac surgery. In the early 2000’s an ERAS society was formed that dedicated time to research preoperative care to improve recovery after surgery. The ERAS® society discovered that some traditional practices were no longer the best practice through evidence-based research. Since then, ERAS has gained much more consideration because of its overall advantageous effect on recovery after surgery, increased patient comfort, psychological well-being, decreased complications post-surgery, and reduced length of stay (LOS).

What are the main pillars of ERAS®?

The main ERAS® principles include protocols for preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care. All ERAS® protocols aim to lessen the body’s response to surgical trauma and maintain normal physiological function during surgery.

ERAS® preoperative principles include:

pre admission counseling
fluid and carbohydrate loading
removing prolonged fasting
no/selective bowel preparation
antibiotic prophylaxis
thromboprophylaxis
no premedication

ERAS® intraoperative protocols include:

short-acting anesthetic agents
no drains
mid-thoracic epidural anesthesia
avoidance of salt and water overload
maintenance of normothermia

ERAS® postoperative protocols include:

mid-thoracic epidural anesthesia
no nasogastric tubes
prevention of nausea and vomiting
avoidance of salt and water overload
early removal of the catheter
early oral nutrition
non-opioid oral analgesia NSAID
early mobilization
stimulation of gut motility
an audit of compliance and outcomes

What is the goal of ERAS® protocols?

As mentioned before, the goal of ERAS® protocols is to reduce the stress response of surgery. When the body undergoes surgical trauma, it can result in a metabolic state of stress. When the body is in this catabolic state, recovery will be slower, and complications are more likely to occur. Some complications associated with this exaggerated stress response are pain, paralytic ileus, increased cardiac demand, respiratory difficulties, increased insulin resistance, and increased infections. These complications lead to delayed recovery post-surgery. By lessening the body’s response to stress, ERAS® protocols help achieve early recovery and decrease LOS. Increased LOS and increased complications post-surgery is a significant issue for many medical professionals. ERAS® is beneficial to both the hospitals due to decreased LOS and costs and the patient as it increases patients comfort, reduces anxiety, and leads to faster recovery.

Nutrition’s Role in ERAS®

Nutritional status is critical before surgery. Ideally, a nutritional assessment is done before any surgery to reduce the risk of postoperative complications, increased length of stay, and infection risk. A patient can be diagnosed with mild or severe malnutrition by the MD. A Registered Dietitian assesses the patient for mild to severe malnutrition. The following criteria from Academy Adult Malnutrition Criteria (ASPEN) help to identify moderate malnutrition. A patient must have at least two of following to be diagnosed with moderate malnutrition: weight loss >2% in 1 week, >5% in one month, or >7.5% in 3 months; Energy intake less than or equal to 50% compared to estimated needs for greater than or equal to 5 days; Moderate body fat depletion; Moderate muscle mass depletion; Moderate to Severe Fluid Accumulation; and reduced grip strength. Furthermore, a patient must have at least two of the following to be diagnosed with severe malnutrition: Weight loss 1-2% in 1 week, 5% in one most, 7.5% in 3 months; Energy intake <75% compared to estimated needs in 7 days; mild body fat depletion; mild muscle mass depletion; Mild fluid accumulation; and Reduced grip strength.

How to correct malnutrition before surgery?

If you need to correct malnutrition before surgery, using CF(Protein)® is a great way to build muscle and strength for a speedy recovery. Other ways to improve nutritional status can include enteral or parenteral nutrition. Obese patients may need to lose excess weight before surgery.

Why should you use CF(Preop)® over the NPO approach?

Before ERAS® protocols, the traditional approach to surgery was to fast after midnight before surgery to decrease aspiration risk. In the 1990s, evidence-based research suggested that this was not necessary. Furthermore, there are detrimental effects caused by this period of prolonged fasting. Prolonged fasting worsens the catabolic state, increases metabolic stress, hyperglycemia, and insulin resistance. Furthermore, when the body fasts for a lengthy time, glycogen stores are depleted, leading to protein and muscle breakdown. Postoperative insulin resistance (PIR), a result of the stress response from surgery and further exaggerated with prolonged fasting, is directly related to delayed wound healing, increased morbidity/mortality, and LOS. PIR must decrease to enhance recovery after surgery.

Preoperative carbohydrate loading maximizes glycogen stores in the body as an energy source to minimize body tissues’ degeneration and reduce insulin resistance. By changing the metabolic state by shortening preoperative fasting (aka providing a complex carbohydrate 2-3 hours before surgery), PIR will decrease, protein loss reduces, and muscle function will improve. Additionally, preoperative carbohydrate loading increases patients’ comfort and reduces hunger, thirst, and anxiety, leading to surgery, all decreasing stress entering surgery.

Specific Amounts of Nutrients Needed to Support Enhanced Recovery

CF(Preop)® is a clear, colorless drink specifically formulated by an anesthesiologist for safe consumption hours before surgery. Each of its premium ingredients promote the highest level of pre surgery safety, comfort, and nourishment. It is designed to lower the risk of surgical site infections, reduce post-op recovery time, minimize post-op complication risk, and promote comfort and minimize stress.

CF(Preop)® is formulated for surgery and has all the ASA requirements to make it safe for consumption before your surgery. These requirements include a low osmolarity of 270mOsm to promote gastric emptying. It is clear and colorless and has no fat or protein and contains 50g CHO to shift the body from a fasted to fed state and promote enhanced recovery. It contains maltodextrin to help replenish glycogen depletion by catabolism related to fasting and surgery. Choosing to drink CF(Preop)® before your surgery helps you feel back to normal as soon as possible.

Now that you know everything about ERAS® and how to prepare for surgery, visit our website to learn more.

Healthy Lifestyle

Breaking Down Diet Restrictions

Post author By CF Clinical Nutrition
Post date November 10, 2022
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Everything you need to know about going Plant-based…

Form Complete Proteins

Complete proteins have all nine essential amino acids (Most animal proteins-fish, poultry, eggs, beef, pork, dairy). Incomplete proteins lack one or more essential amino acids (Most plant proteins-Legumes, beans, peas, lentil, nuts, seeds, whole grains, vegetables). It is important to try and form complete proteins with plant-based diets so you get all amino acids.

Some combos for you to try to incorporate:

Nuts with a legume
Legume with seeds
Whole grain toast with peanut butter
Brown rice and black beans
Hummus with whole-grain crackers
Salad with sunflower seeds and chickpeas
Yogurt with walnuts
Corn and beans
Brown rice with green peas

Distribute your protein throughout the day

Aim to have 20–30 grams of protein in each meal and 15 grams in each of your snacks. (This will vary based on your specific needs.) By spacing out your protein throughout the day, your body will be able to process and use the protein more efficiently.

Choose whole grain carbs

Whole grains have more protein and more fiber making them more nutrient-dense. They will help fuel your body and keep you feeling fuller for longer.

Use CF(Protein) to supplement your diet

CF(Protein)® was created for both ease and enjoyment. Thirteen grams of delicious, clean plant protein is packed into an 8-oz bottle that can be enjoyed on-the-go! CF(Protein)® uses pea protein. Pea protein contains all nine essential amino acids. It is easily digestible and has a pleasant taste and texture. Additionally, it is a good source of iron and other nutrients. Unlike other protein powders like whey, pea protein is not a derivative of milk so it can be consumed by those with allergies or following a specialty diet (vegan, vegetarian, paleo, etc.). Click here for CF(Protein)® nutrition information. Unlike other mainstream products, CF Nutrition products are suitable for vegetarians and vegans. They are all certified vegan, halal, and kosher and do not contain gluten.

Things to add to your diet:

Do you eat dairy and eggs? If so, greek yogurt and eggs will be a great option for you.
Protein bars are also a great option – aim for <200 cals and >20 g protein when looking for a protein bar.
Pumpkin seeds, chia seed, flax seeds, nuts, nut butter, tofu, tempeh are all things you want to add in.
Another great add is nutritional yeast. It has a lot of B vitamins and protein and give your food a cheesy flavor without adding dairy.

At CF Nutrition, all of our products are plant-based and vegan certified.

Everything you need to know about Dairy Free…

Lactase is the enzyme that breaks down lactose. If you are lactose intolerant, than you are unable to breakdown and digest lactose. If you have too little off lactase, then you are likely to feel symptoms like bloating, gas, diarrhea, etc. when you consume dairy. Sometimes, you have NO lactase, this is when you are lactose intolerant and unable to digest milk products. Being lactose intolerant is not the same as having a milk allergy.

Lactose intolerance can be hereditary
It can develop over time as the body makes less of the enzyme lactase
Some babies born prematurely, may not be able to make enough lactase
Sometimes, the body will stop making lactase after an injury or disease
If you stop eating dairy, your body may lose it’s ability to make lactase

The main nutrients you need to be concerned about if you are lactose intolerant or avoid dairy are vitamin D and calcium.

NON-dairy sources of Calcium:

chia seeds
tofu
almonds
white beans
sunflower seeds
kale
broccoli
soy milk

NON-dairy sources of Vitamin D:

fortified cereal and Orange Juice
mushrooms
salmon
eggs
the sun shine 🙂

**When looking at dairy free cheeses, just check the ingredients and how much saturated fat and sodium they have – you want low of both. CF Nutrition products also do not contain the most common allergens, including milk, lactose, peanuts and tree nuts, soy, eggs, casein or whey.

Everything you need to know about Gluten Free…

Celiac disease (Medically required to maintain a gluten-free diet) is a hereditary autoimmune disease that results in damage to the villi (small fingerlike projections that line the small intestine, that promote nutrient absorption) when gluten passes through the intestines. The enzyme protease helps our body break down proteins, although protease cannot break down gluten completely and undigested gluten travels to the small intestine. When damage to the villi occurs, nutrients are absorbed incorrectly.

Most people can handle undigested gluten, but celiacs cannot. In this case, gluten triggers an autoimmune reaction and unpleasant symptoms. Celiac disease can develop the disease at any age. The treatment is to follow a strict gluten-free diet as there is no cure. The symptoms are abdominal pain, diarrhea, heartburn, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, constipation, bloating fatigue, skin rash, and weight loss.

A gluten-free diet may also be right for you if you have an allergy or intolerance to gluten or wheat, or if you feel you have symptoms after consuming foods with gluten. These symptoms may include bloating, diarrhea, or gas, among other gastrointestinal issues.

How to Follow a Gluten-Free Diet

The 3 main food groups containing gluten – wheat, barley, and rye.
To follow a gluten-free diet, it is important to avoid all foods that contain these ingredients.
Wheat is commonly found in bread, baked goods, soups, pasta, cereals, sauces, and some salad dressings.
Barley is found in malt, food coloring, soups, beer, and brewer’s yeast.
Rye is found in rye bread, rye beer, and cereals. Unless specified as gluten-free, most pasta, bread, crackers, and baked goods contain gluten.

A gluten-free diet does not mean you have to be without carbohydrates. There are plenty of carbohydrates that do not contain gluten and are suitable for those who cannot tolerate gluten.

Naturally, gluten-free foods include:

Amaranth
Arrowroot
Beans
Buckwheat
Cassava
Chia
Corn
Flax
Gluten-free oats
Nut flours
Potato
Quinoa
Rice
Soy
Tapioca

Additionally, there are gluten-free options available in restaurants and stores. If you are eating at a restaurant, ask about a gluten-free menu.

CF Nutrition products are gluten-free and may be suitable for patients with Celiac Disease.

Certain GI issues are more common in those with Celiac Disease. If you feel CF products cause or worsen symptoms, consult your doctor for recommendations.

Now that you know CF Nutrition products are suitable for most diet restrictions, explore our website to shop!

Featured Posts Medical Professionals Nutrition Wellness + Medical Tips

CF(Protein)®- Plant Based Protein Beverage

Post author By CF Clinical Nutrition
Post date November 3, 2022
No Comments on CF(Protein)®- Plant Based Protein Beverage

CF(Protein)® is a plant-based protein drink that provides a concentrated dose of natural electrolytes, antioxidants, and essential fats. It can be used as a delicious addition to your everyday diet or the ideal supplement to improve overall health before surgery.

CF(Protein)® Benefits:

Promotes muscle maintenance and recovery
Comprehensive nutrition on the go
Strengthens immune support
Reduces risk of malnourishment
Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients
Concentrated nutrition on the go
Healthy omega-three and omega-six fats
Naturally derived vitamin and minerals
Essential amino acids
Natural fiber sources
Shelf-stable
Gluten-free, kosher, non-GMO, vegan and dairy-free
Convenient on the go protein source

CF(Protein)® Ingredients:

CF(Protein)® uses plant protein that is easily digested with yellow pea protein, contributing a significant amino acid dose that promotes muscle recovery and repair. CF(Protein)® has complex carbohydrates derived from fruit. This makes CF(Protein)® a rich energy source without any added sugar. There are no cheap, low-quality additives or simple sugars seen in other protein drinks. CF(Protein)® also contains healthy fats, mono and polyunsaturated fats. The use of chia seed oil provides consumers with essential omega-three and omega-six fatty acids to minimize inflammation and help prevent cardiovascular disease. CF(Protein)® also contains turmeric, which may help support your immune system.

CF(Protein)® Nutrient Information per 8-ounce bottle:

• Calories: 200

• Total fat: 6g

• Saturated fat: 1g

• Sodium: 230mg

• Total Carbohydrate: 29g

• Dietary Fiber: 13 g

• Total Sugar: 14g

• Includes 0 added sugar

• Protein: 13g

CF(Protein)® Compared to Other Similar Products:

CF(Protein)® uses natural ingredients and is free from artificial flavors and dyes. Competitors of CF(Protein)® use ingredients like sugar, high oleic safflower oil, cellulose gel, and cellulose gum. Additionally, other products on the market contain added sugar that can lead to diabetes and other health conditions. CF(Protein)® had 0g of added sugar. Ideally, consumers should limit added sugar as much as possible in the diet. Consuming added sugar can lead to overweight and obesity and may increase your risk for developing diabetes and even cancer. Added sugars should be no more than 10% of total calories. CF(Protein)® also stands out from its competitors because it has 13g dietary fiber to promote GI regularity and increase satiety. Most Americans fall short of the recommended amount of fiber. The RDA for fiber is 38g for adult males under 50 and 30g for adult males over 50. The RDA for women 50 years and younger is 25g/day, and for women over 51, 21g/day. It is essential to get enough fiber because it will help normalize bowel movements, help manage blood sugars, increase satiety, and help lower cholesterol. Consuming CF(Protein)® will help you achieve the RDA for fiber.

At CF Nutrition, we feel CF(Protein)® is superior to other protein supplements due to its natural, clean, immune-supporting ingredients and high fiber and low added sugar content. CF(Protein)® is a well-balanced, nutrient-rich protein drink that will help increase your energy levels and support your immunity. Unlike other protein drinks, there is no added sugar, and one 8-ounce bottle allows you to meet almost ½ of the RDA for fiber. Several detrimental effects to consuming added sugar, including high blood pressure, inflammation, weight gain, diabetes, and fatty liver, all like an increased risk for heart attack and stroke. With CF(Protein)®, you can find peace knowing there is no added sugar or artificial ingredients. Additionally, it has omega-three essential fatty acids that will help lower cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular diseases.

So what are you waiting for? Now that you know CF(Protein)® is the best plant based protein drink on the market, visit our website to purchase yours today!

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