Author: CF Clinical Nutrition

Top 5 CF Nutrition Summer Recipes

Post author By CF Clinical Nutrition
Post date June 29, 2022
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Longer days means more time to spend trying out new delicious recipes. Summer has officially kicked off and the sun is shining at full force. If you are like us, we know you are in desperate need of some refreshing and delicious recipes to cool you down this summer. Today we are bringing you our top 5 recipes using our very own CF Nutrition products.

#1 Aloha Watermelon Slushy

Nothing is more refreshing than watermelon on a hot summer day. Here is the recipe for our delicious watermelon immunity slushy. It is low in calories and high in hydration.

Ingredients⁠⁠:

10 cups seedless watermelon cubes, (pureed watermelon, frozen in an ice cube tray for at least 24 hours)⁠⁠
2–4 tbsp honey⁠⁠
Juice of 1 large lime⁠⁠
1/4 cup fresh mint ⁠⁠
1 1/2 cup CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+, Aloha Blend⁠⁠

Directions⁠⁠:

Let the frozen watermelon cubes sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to defrost some. Then, add the cubes, 2 tbsp honey, lime juice, mint, and CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ to a high-speed blender.⁠⁠ Pulse the blender until the watermelon starts to break up some, then blend to form a thick, slushy consistency. Adjust the honey to taste, adding more if necessary. If the mixture is too thick for your liking, you can also add in extra CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+.⁠⁠

Divide equally into 4 glasses, serve, and enjoy!

#2 Mango Peach Margarita Mocktails!

Not only is this drink the perfect way to fire up your fiesta (& soothe the spice-factor if you’re like us and love your tacos with a little heat), but it also provides a healthy dose of plant-based protein from all-natural, clean ingredients!⁠

Ingredients:

12oz frozen mango chunks⁠
12oz frozen peach slices⁠
Extra Ice, for blending⁠
1 bottle CF(Protein)®
1 cup citrus seltzer water⁠
2 tablespoons coconut sugar

Directions:⁠

Throw the mango & peach chunks into the blender. Top off the blender with ice. Pour in the bottle of CF(Protein)® & seltzer water. Blend until completely smooth, adding more ice if necessary to get it the consistency you want. Pour the drinks and serve them immediately.⁠

#3 Vegan Tropical Overnight Oats

⁠Cooking over a hot stove in the morning just isn’t in in summer. Here we share our favorite summer breakfast idea that will kick off your day right.

Ingredients⁠:

1/4 cup pineapple finely diced⁠
1/4 cup mango finely diced⁠
1/2 rolled oats⁠
1 bottle CF(Protein)®
2 tbsp chia seeds⁠
2 tbsp shredded coconut⁠
1 tsp pure maple syrup⁠

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in a 16 ounce mason jar, stir to combine, cover and store in the fridge overnight. ⁠⁠Serve up this tropical breakfast treat with an extra pinch of shredded coconut & sliced bananas if you really like things fruity!⁠

#4 Choco-Orange Energy Bites (Vegan Friendly!)⁠

Are you in need of a healthy summer snack to take with you to the pool or beach? We have you covered with these delicious and nutritious energy bites.

Ingredients:⁠

1/4 cup CF(Rehydrate)⁠®, Orange
1/4 cup fresh orange juice⁠
1 cup pitted Medjool dates⁠
1 1/2 cups oats⁠
1/4 cup toasted chopped walnuts⁠
2 tbsp orange zest (plus more for dusting the energy bites)⁠
1/4 cup cocoa powder⁠
2 tbsp cacao nibs⁠

Directions:⁠

⁠Soak dates in hot water for about 10 minutes or until softened; drain and squeeze to release excess moisture. Set aside.⁠ Add oats to food processor; pulse until coarsely ground. Add walnuts, orange zest, cacao nibs, and cocoa powder; pulse until finely ground.⁠⁠ Add dates, CF(Rehydrate)®, and orange juice; process until mixture comes together into a ball, scraping down sides of bowl as necessary. Roll mixture into 1‑inch balls and coat with additional orange zest (add as much or as little as you’d like to create your perfect orange-chocolate flavor profile!).⁠ Place on parchment paper–lined tray; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm & then enjoy!⁠

#5 Extra Creamy Cooked Oatmeal (Vegan & Great for the Gut!)⁠

Last on the list is another awesome summer breakfast idea for our oatmeal lovers.

Ingredients:

2 cups rolled oats⁠
2 cups warm water ⁠
2 tbsp pure maple syrup or agave⁠
2 tbsp coconut yogurt⁠
1/2 tsp salt⁠
1/2 cup CF(Protein)®
½ cup water⁠
1 cup coconut milk⁠

Directions:

Mix together: oats, 2 cups water, pure maple syrup or agave syrup, and yogurt in a large bowl. Cover and let sit on the counter overnight.⁠ In the morning, bring coconut milk, CF(Protein)®, water, salt, and oat mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and simmer for around 5 minutes. Watch carefully as these oats cook quickly.⁠ Spoon into bowls and top with a tbsp of coconut butter for some healthy fat and sliced banana. Other topping favorites include a sprinkle of cinnamon & a drizzle of pure maple syrup.

Now you have 5 delicious and nutritious summer snack ideas. So what are you waiting for – head to drinkclearfast.com today to purchase some of our awesome products.

Tags healthy recipes, summertime

Our Top 4 Travel Tip to Stay Healthy & Hydrated

Post author By CF Clinical Nutrition
Post date June 15, 2022
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Ever get sick when you travel? Or feel a nasty headache the next day? Well, if this is you, you may not be fueling your body with what it needs to stay healthy and hydrated. Don’t worry, today we break down our top 4 tips to keep you healthy and happy next time you travel.

Tip 1: Drink CF(Rehydrate) Immunity+

The best way to hydrate and prepare for a day of travel is with CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity +. Not only does CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ contain electrolytes for premium hydration, it also has immune-supporting ingredients like Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Magnesium, and Zinc. This makes it a great way to prepare yourself for traveling. Ever get sick right after a plane ride? Well you’re not alone and it is pretty common when being around several people in such a small space. But CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ can help you combat any nasty bug or cold. It is formulated with functional nutrients that promote immunity and wellness when you need it most. Even if you are traveling by car, CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ can help you quickly hydrate yourself and replenish lost electrolytes.

Top 2: Eat a well balanced breakfast before you travel

When we have to get on the road early or take a 6 AM flight, it is so easy to skip breakfast—but this will cause more harm than good. On travel days, it is even more crucial to make breakfast a top priority. Some great travel day breakfast ideas are whole-wheat toast with 2 scrambled eggs and ½ an avocado (add veggies to your eggs for a bonus) or oatmeal with walnuts and blueberries. No matter what you decide to eat for breakfast, make sure it is packed with protein, fiber, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. If you’re in a rush, grab CF(Protein)® for a quick and convenient breakfast.

Tip 3: Pack more travel snacks than you think you’ll need

Even though we aren’t physically active when we travel on the road or in the air, we tend to get more hungry than we think. This may lead us to gobble down endless amounts of airplane cookies or stop at fast-food restaurants to get something greasy. We suggest preparing for this midday hunger with some nutritious snacks that will keep you energized for your travel day.

Some great travel snacks are:

Raw walnuts and popcorn
Banana and peanut butter
Whole-wheat crackers and almond butter
CF(Protein)®
Celery and carrots with hummus
Peanut butter and banana sandwich

Tip 4: Get a good night sleep

One way to make our travel day easier is by getting a good night’s sleep beforehand. It is so easy to leave packing until the last minute and spend all night trying to get our bags under 50 LBS, but getting 7-9 hours of sleep is crucial to kick off your vacation on the right foot. Even if you plan to sleep on the plane or in the car, try your best to get in your ZZZ the night before because let’s face it – sleeping on the plane or in the car isn’t necessarily the quality sleep our bodies deserve.

Now you are ready to take on your travel day and feel your best. Don’t forget to check out our website to purchase CF(Protein)® and CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ for premium hydration and nutrition.

Tags nutrition while traveling, travel tips

Featured Posts For Med Pros Preparing for Surgery Presurgery Nutrition

Importance of Preoperative Nutrition Before Surgery

Post author By CF Clinical Nutrition
Post date June 8, 2022
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Nutrition plays a crucial role in surgical outcomes. Implementing nutrition screening and correcting malnutrition before surgery can help reduce readmission rates, postoperative infections, and length of stay. By understanding the components of preoperative nutrition medical professionals can help ensure patients receive the best standard of care.

What is preoperative nutrition?

Preoperative nutrition covers a wide variety of interventions—including nutrition screens, correcting nutrition status before surgery, patient education, and carbohydrate loading up to two hours before surgery. There is a lot involved in preoperative nutrition, and understanding each component can significantly enhance recovery, which is why it is a major component of ERAS®.

Why does preoperative nutrition matter?

There is a strong association between poor nutrition status and surgical outcomes. Several studies report that preoperative nutrition to correct poor nutrition status improves outcomes postoperatively. To understand the importance of preoperative nutrition and correcting nutrition status before surgery, consider surgery analogous to a marathon. Before a marathon, you train for an extended period to ensure you will finish the race with the fastest time possible. If you have any injuries or illness, you would likely postpone running the marathon until you were healthy because, if not, you will not run as fast and perhaps wouldn’t even be able to finish the race. In the grand scheme of things, surgery is far more critical than running a marathon, so ensuring patients put in the same “training” to enter surgery at their strongest leads to smoother, faster recoveries.

What is the risk of preoperative malnutrition?

Preoperative malnutrition increases the risk for mortality and morbidity, and also increases costs. Malnutrition and cachexia are caused by proinflammatory cytokine response, inadequate dietary intake, and catabolic effects (Ward et al.). Preoperative malnutrition leads to increased susceptibility to infection, impaired wound healing, pressure ulcers, and increased length of stay (Abdelhamid et al.). Therefore, patients who are severely malnourished should correct malnutrition before surgery. In some cases, surgery is postponed until malnutrition is resolved.

Malnutrition and Surgery

Ideally, a nutrition assessment before any surgery can diagnose malnutrition. A Doctor or Registered Dietitian can evaluate the patient for mild to severe malnutrition. The Academy Adult Malnutrition Criteria (ASPEN) has specific criteria to identify malnutrition.

Research proves that malnutrition is a leading cause of poor postoperative outcomes and it is a strong predictor of 90 days mortality and poor overall survival. Ward et al. suggest that preoperative anorexia and malnutrition increase postoperative complications in Whipple procedures. Furthermore, malnutrition in patients with pancreatic cancer can lead to cancer-related cachexia, defined as greater than 10% weight loss over six months.

CF Nutrition’s Role in helping prevent malnutrition

Nutrition status can improve with recommendations from a Registered Dietitian. Typical recommendations include high-protein supplements in the weeks leading up to surgery, such as CF(Protein)®. CF(Protein)® is a plant-based protein drink patients can consume in the days and weeks leading up to surgery to optimize nutrition. It contains high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory ingredients that will enhance the immune system and optimize overall health. It is a complete nutrition product to help build muscle and strength for a speedy recovery.

Other ways to improve nutritional status can include enteral or parenteral nutrition if protein beverages are not enough to restore nutrition status. For obese patients, it is often required to lose excess weight before surgery. The macronutrient excess in those with obesity can be associated with chronic inflammation, sarcopenia, and micronutrient deficiency.

What about preoperative carb-loading?

Surgery induces a catabolic effect on the body. Reducing the fasting period can help reduce this catabolic effect and enhance recovery. Preoperative carbohydrate loading is also an essential component of preoperative nutrition. Prolonged fasting before surgery may cause detrimental effects. Prolonged fasting worsens the catabolic state, and increases metabolic stress, hyperglycemia, and insulin resistance. Furthermore, when the body fasts for a prolonged 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 related to delayed wound healing, increased morbidity/mortality, and LOS. Decreased PIR sets patients up for a smoother recovery.

Preoperative carbohydrate loading maximizes glycogen stores in the body as an energy source to minimize body tissue degeneration and reduce PIR. When you change the metabolic state by shortening preoperative fasting, PIR decreases, protein loss drops, and muscle function will improve. Additionally, preoperative carbohydrate loading increases patients’ comfort and reduces hunger, thirst, and anxiety leading up to surgery. Ultimately decreasing stress entering surgery. Our anesthesiologist-developed product, CF(Preop)®, may be consumed before surgery to enhance recovery and shift the body from a fasting to a fed state.

How does preoperative nutrition benefit the medical professional?

Screening patients’ nutritional status, correcting malnutrition and providing preoperative nutrition benefits patients and medical professionals alike. The patient will benefit from a smoother recovery—while the medical professional will benefit from cost savings, reduced length of stay and postoperative complications, increased patient satisfaction, and lower readmission rates.

In summary, preoperative nutrition is a critical component of surgery. Nutrition screenings, correcting malnutrition, and preoperative carbohydrate loading are necessary interventions before performing surgery. CF Nutrition is here to help you better understand preoperative nutrition and how to incorporate it into your practice. Our products promote a smooth recovery and improved surgical outcomes.

Featured Posts Healthy Lifestyle Nutrition

5 Surprising Sources of Plant-based Protein

Post author By CF Clinical Nutrition
Post date May 26, 2022
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Are you tired of steak, chicken, and fish but afraid that plant-based sources of protein won’t cut it? Well, we have some good news for you. Plant-based sources of protein may already be in your diet without you even realizing it. Today, we will break down some surprising sources of protein that you may already be eating in your diet. Going plant-based, or even just adding a few meatless days to your week doesn’t mean you have to eat less protein. Read along to find out some surprising sources of protein.

#1 Whole Grains

It is pretty common knowledge that whole grains are recommended over simple carbohydrates like white rice, white pasta, and white bread- you get the idea. But there is a reason (more than just the color) that whole grains are the better options.

Whole grains contain higher amounts of protein than simple carbohydrates. Most of the time, a slice of whole-grain bread will contain about 5 grams of protein, whereas, a piece of white bread has just 2 or 3 grams. Don’t believe us? Next time you’re at the supermarket, pick up whole grain bread and white bread and compare the nutrition facts label. You will notice that while white bread has < 3 grams of protein, whole grain bread will have 4-7 grams of protein. The same goes for things like pasta and rice. Having more protein will help you feel fuller for longer and help blood glucose stabilize.

#2 Black Beans and Brown Rice

A dynamic protein duo is brown rice and black beans. On their own, both provide a great source of fiber and protein but together they make a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids. In one ½ cup serving of black beans, there are 7 grams of protein. And in 1 cup of brown rice, there are about 5 grams of protein. If you pair the two together, you make a complete protein and about 12 grams of protein. Looks like you have your next burrito bowl base!

#3 Vegetables

Have you ever heard the riddle – what has more protein – a pound of broccoli or a pound of beef? Well, you may be surprised to know that the answer is broccoli. In one cup of broccoli, you will find about 3 grams of protein (But think about how much broccoli makes up one whole pound).

Broccoli isn’t the only veggie that serves as a good protein source. Another vegetable that is high in protein is peas. In just ½ a cup, there are 4 grams of protein. Spinach has 1 gram of protein per 1 cup. That may not seem like a lot but if you ever have cooked spinach, you know that it shrinks quite a bit when cooked. So you can add multiple cups of spinach for multiple grams of protein. One cup of kale contains 2 grams of protein and one cup of mushrooms contains 3 grams of protein. Another powerhouse vegetable is Brussel sprouts, in a 100-gram serving, there are 3.4 grams of protein. A single artichoke has 4 grams of protein and a 100 gram serving of asparagus has 2.2 g of protein. Edamame does more than just pair well with sushi – it provides a whopping 17 g of protein per 1 cup serving. So, as you can see, vegetables can really help beef up your daily protein intake. Add these high-protein veggies to some black beans and brown rice and you may never need to eat chicken again.

#4 Nutritional Yeast

Nutritional yeast is a common cheese substitute for people following a dairy-free diet. You can add it to sauces, pasta, popcorn, vegetables, and more. It is a unique vegan-friendly food with a cheesy flavor. Not only is it tasty, but it also has a very powerful nutrition profile and is a great source of vitamins, especially B vitamins. Additionally, it serves as a great source of protein. At just 60 calories per serving, ¼ cup of nutritional yeast provides 8 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber and just 25 mg of sodium. So next time you are looking to add some flavor, and protein to your meal- check out nutritional yeast.

#5 Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are well known as a source of omega-3. Omega-3 is the good type of fat that we need to consume daily to help our hearts stay healthy. But what some people don’t realize is chia seeds also are a good source of protein. In one ounce of chia seeds, there are about 5 grams of protein. Chia seeds are 19% protein and have all nine essential amino acids making them a high-quality plant-based protein. They are a great addition to yogurt, oatmeal, pudding, and more. Want to hear even better news? CF(Protein )® contains chia seed oil in its formulation and provides 13 grams of plant-based protein. Check out our website to buy yours today as a great addition to your everyday diet.

So, as you can see- meat is not essential to meet your protein needs. There are several plant-based sources of protein that are easy to add to your diet. If you are trying to explore a more plant-based lifestyle, use this as a tool to add some high-quality foods to your diet.

Tags plant-based, protein

Meal Prepping 101

Meal prepping is a fantastic way to plan ahead and make sure you are eating healthy throughout the week. Some people choose one day to meal prep for the entire week, while others choose to break it up and meal prep on two separate nights. Either way, prepping your meals can save time and money so you don’t have to eat out during your work day.

Meal prepping also allows you to be more consistent with healthy eating. Not only is eating out expensive, oftentimes it isn’t the healthiest choice either. Although many restaurants offer healthy options- they sometimes load up your meals with extra salt or give you extremely large portions that can lead to weight gain overtime. When you make your meal at home, you can ensure you are using clean and simple ingredients and prepare your food the way you want it.

Ensuring you are creating well balanced meals with adequate nutrition and calories can be difficult; So we are here to help you navigate meal prepping. We will make it simple for you by breaking down exactly what you need to create a healthy and satisfying meal.

Step 1: Choose Whole Grain Carbohydrates

When it comes to carbs- you need them! No matter what you hear on the internet, carbohydrates are essential to your energy levels. Carbohydrates provide your brain and body the energy and fuel it needs to take on your day. When meal prepping, we suggest using whole grains when possible. Whole grains have more fiber and protein than simple carbohydrates meaning you will stay fuller for longer.

The portion of your carbohydrate also matters. Typically, you want to have about ½ cup of carbohydrates for each meal. This should make up 25% of your plate (or tupperware). Depending on your activity level and size,, you may require ¾ cup or even a full cup of carbohydrates.

Here are some great choice for your carbohydrate:

Farro
Brown Rice
Quinoa
Sweet Potato
Whole grain bread
Whole grain pasta
Oatmeal

Step 2: Add Some Healthy Fats

Another diet myth is following a low fat diet. What people don’t tell you is that fat is essential to your health and well being. Filling up on healthy fats, especially omega-3’s is an important part of following a healthy well balanced diet. (Did you know CF(Protein)® is a great source of omega-3?) When meal prepping, make sure to include some sort of healthy fat.

Here are some ideas:

⅓-½ of an Avocado
¼ cup of Nuts
1 tbsp Olive Oil
2 tbsp of nut butter
2 tbsp chia or flax seeds
1 bottle of CF(Protein)®

Step 3: Choose lean protein

One thing you can’t forget when meal prepping is your protein. Your protein source should fill up 25% of your plate. Depending on your size and activity level, your protein needs will vary. It is safe to say everyone should have at least 15 grams of protein per meal. If you are eating meat or fish, at least 3-4 ounces is a good starting point (this is about the size of the palm of your hand). When choosing a protein, consider prepping some days plant based. You can even grab a bottle of CF(Protein)® for 13 grams of plant based protein.

Here are some protein options:

Grilled chicken
Baked fish
Chickpeas
Black Beans
CF(Protein)®
Eggs
Grass fed meat
Ground Turkey

Step 4: Don’t forget your veggies and fruits

Filling your tupperware with veggies and fruit will increase your fiber intake and help you stay full longer. Not only that, vegetables and fruits provide you with essential vitamins and minerals to keep your body healthy and strong. Try to fill 50% of your plate with veggies. This equals about 1 cup of veggies. Mix it up and add one or two different veggies next time you meal prep. Fruit is important to- so make sure you add a handful of berries or add an apple to your lunch bag!

Step 5: Add a small treat

Ever get a sweet tooth after lunch? Well it’s actually very common. We recommend planning ahead and packing a sweet treat so you don’t find yourself at the vending machine for a king sized chocolate bar when that 2 oclock slump hits. Pack a small treat and you will thank yourself later.

Here are some sample ideas for meal prepping:

Option 1:

½ cup of complex carbohydrate (brown rice, quinoa, sweet potato)
4 oz of lean protein (grilled chicken, salmon, tuna, lean ground turkey)
1-2 cups of veggies
1 piece of dark chocolate
1 bottle of CF(Rehydrate)®

Option 2:

2 slices of whole wheat bread
3oz of deli meat
lettuce and tomatoes
1 handful of nuts (or ¼ avocado on sandwich)
CF(Protein)®
1 dark chocolate covered peanut butter cup

Now you have all the tricks and tips to head into your next meal prepping session! Don’t forget to check out the blog every other Thursday for more health and wellness tips!

Dietary Fat Breakdown & the Benefits of Omega-3

Post author By CF Clinical Nutrition
Post date May 5, 2022
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It is no secret that a low-fat diet has gained popularity in today’s society. The problem is, that a low-fat diet is not healthy and can cause several health problems. Learning how to distinguish between healthy and unhealthy fats is crucial to a well-balanced diet. Additionally, getting enough healthy fats can help to prevent chronic disease, specifically cardiovascular disease- the leading cause of death in the United States. Today we breakdown the different types of fat including omega-3.

What is healthy vs. unhealthy fat?

It is critical for patients and medical professionals to distinguish between the different types of dietary fat. Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are essential macronutrients in a well-balanced diet. MUFAs have one double bond, and PUFAs have two double bonds. These two fats are considered healthy fats.

Alternatively, the two fats that should be limited and avoided are trans fat and saturated fat. The recommendation is to avoid the consumption of trans fat in the diet overall, and the American Heart Association recommends that saturated fat be limited to less than 10% of total calorie intake and less than 7% of total calorie intake to reduce cardiovascular disease risk further. Both MUFAs and PUFAs are liquid at room temperature, whereas saturated fat is solid at room temperature. Butter is an example of saturated fat (solid at room temp)—and olive oil is an example of a MUFA (liquid at room temp).

What is omega-3?

One specific type of PUFA is an omega-3 fatty acid. The term omega-3 has to do with where the double bond is. Omega-3s must be consumed in the diet because the body cannot make omega-3 on its own. Therefore, omega-3s are considered essential fatty acids. ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) is the type of PUFA in plant sources like nuts and seeds. CF(Protein)® uses chia seed oil that is rich in ALA. The other types of omega-3 are EPA and DHA. These come from marine sources, like fish.

Omega-3 consumption is essential to a healthy diet and poses many benefits to health. It helps prevent/lower your risk for cardiovascular disease and also benefits your brain, immune system, skin, and joints.

What is the link between cardiovascular disease and omega-3?

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Consuming omega-3 fatty acids may help protect you from developing cardiovascular diseases and events. Dietary supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids—including DHA, EPA, and ALA—is a promising primary and secondary way to prevent CVD. The main benefit of omega-3s is their ability to lower triglycerides. Additionally, omega-3s may help increase your HDL cholesterol (known as the “good cholesterol”). Higher levels of HDL may help prevent your risk for cardiovascular disease.

Hypertriglyceridemia is an independent risk factor for CVD events. According to the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 35% of men and 25% of women in the US have hypertriglyceridemia defined as triglycerides>150 mg per day. Those with mixed dyslipidemia (high cholesterol and high triglycerides) may be on statin medication to lower their cholesterol levels. Unfortunately, statins do not lower triglycerides. Therefore, even if your patients are on a statin, they may still be at risk for cardiovascular events due to hypertriglyceridemia. Controlling triglycerides levels is crucial in this scenario to protect patients from CVD. Currently, available options to lower blood triglycerides are fibrates, niacin, and omega-3 fatty acids. Sometimes, niacin and fibrates are not tolerated well and have adverse effects. Omega-3 fatty acids, however, have been shown to lower triglyceride levels with good tolerance.

Are omega 3’s anti-inflammatory?

Yes! Another benefit of omega-3 is its anti-inflammatory effect. Omega-3 deficiency is linked to prolonged inflammatory response, and several Americans do not get enough omega-3 in their diet. When there is an infection or damage to the body, inflammation is the body’s natural response. Inflammation is simply a protective response involving host cells, blood vessels, and proteins. The goal of inflammation is to eliminate the initial cause of cell injury, remove necrotic cells and tissues, and initiate repair. Although acute inflammation is a protective response, if inflammation becomes chronic, it can be harmful. Chronic inflammation underlies chronic diseases. Therefore, it is essential to consume food that has anti-inflammatory functions. Since omega-3s are anti-inflammatory, they may help reduce chronic inflammation.

Lastly, omega-3 may also reduce your risk for depression and Alzheimer’s. Some research suggests that omega-3 may help reduce your risk for certain cancers; however, there is not enough evidence to support this yet. To summarize, the chia seed oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids and may help reduce inflammation and prevent chronic diseases. CF(Protein)® is a good source of omega-3.

So what are you waiting for? Start adding omega-3‘s into your diet today. Buy CF(Protein)® for a convenient and on the go dose of omega-3.

Exercise Featured Posts Nutrition

Why Do I Need Magnesium?

Most of us know that there are several vitamins and minerals we need to function properly. The major ones we hear about are vitamin C to help when you have a cold, calcium for strong bones, B vitamins for energy, and vitamin D for healthy aging. But what about magnesium? Although not as commonly talked about, this is an essential mineral we need for day to day functioning.

Magnesium has many roles in the body and plays a major role in maintaining strong bones and a healthy heart. This essential mineral also supports glucose metabolism and plays a vital role in the use of energy-rich compounds. The reason magnesium is so important for healthy bones is because 50-60% of the magnesium in our bodies is found in our bones. This mineral also helps control blood pressure and keeps your heart beat regular. So, if you want a healthy heart and strong bones, make sure to get your daily dose!

How much magnesium do I need and where can I get it?

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for adults 19-51+ years is 400-420 mg daily for men and 310-320 mg for women. If you are pregnant or lactating the RDA increases and you will need about 350-360 mg daily and 310-320 mg respectively.

The following foods are naturally good sources:

Almonds, peanuts, cashews
Pumpkin seeds
Peanut butter
Beans (black, kidney)
Soybeans, soymilk
Cooked spinach, Swiss chard
White potato with skin
Brown rice
Oatmeal (instant, whole oats)
Salmon
Beef
Poultry
Banana
Raisins
Dark chocolate (at least 70%)
Milk, yogurt

What happens if I am deficient?

Although this mineral is found in a variety of foods, research shows that most Americans still don’t meet the RDA. The good news is- most of the time, a slight deficiency won’t cause symptoms. However, certain factors may put you at risk of developing signs of deficiency. These include-malabsorption, long term alcohol abuse, diabetes, and old age. The most common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, headache, anorexia, muscle weakness, spasm, and terrors, cardiovascular and neuromuscular dysfunction.

Supplementation may help alleviate certain symptoms if you are showing signs of deficiency. Low serum levels are also associated with Alzheimer. Supplements have been shown to help alleviate migraine headaches and sometimes a slight reduction in blood pressure.

When do I need more magnesium?

Exercise may deplete magnesium, and the ability to perform physical work is sometimes compromised. The immune function may also temporarily suffer during bouts of prolonged exercise or excessive training. Sometimes, this can lead to infection. Replacing magnesium is crucial after prolonged exercise. One easy way to replenish during and after exercise is with CF(Rehydrate)® IMMUNITY+. CF(Rehydrate)® IMMUNITY+ has 15% of the daily value of magnesium per 16 oz serving.

Do CF Nutrition products have magnesium?

Yes!

There is 15% of the DV of Magnesium in one 16oz serving of CF(Rehydrate)® IMMUNITY+, 6% of the DV in one 12oz serving of CF(Rehydrate)®, and 6% of the DV in one 8z serving of CF(Protein)®.

So next time you have a strenuous workout or need some extra magnesium, grab one of our products to help you meet the RDA!

Featured Posts Healthy Lifestyle Nutrition

Top 5 Grocery Shopping Tips from a Registered Dietitian

Post author By CF Clinical Nutrition
Post date April 7, 2022
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Grocery shopping can be a difficult task, especially if you don’t know exactly what you should be shopping for. Today we break down our top 5 tips on how to grocery shop smart. We want you to feel prepared next time you hit the supermarket.

Tip 1: Don’t go grocery shopping hungry

Going to the grocery store on an empty stomach can be dangerous. More often than not, grocery shopping on an empty stomach will lead you to buy much more than you need. When we are hungry we tend to pick out things that sound good at the moment. This may lead us to choose items that are a quick fix for hunger like processed snacks. Next time you head to the store, take the time to make sure you have eaten a proper meal or snack beforehand to eliminate excessive purchases.

Tip 2: Look at the back for the nutrition facts

I am going to let you in on a little secret, the front of a food item is not necessarily the best thing to look at when deciding which product or brand to purchase. Brands use the front of the label to entice you to think their product is better in some way or another. But the front of the food label is not the best place to look for factual information. Some of the sayings on the front of the label may be somewhat false advertising. For example, a loaf of bread may advertise on the front “100% whole grain”. Then, you turn to the back only to find out that it is enriched with whole wheat and may not provide the benefits of a true whole grain.

We recommend you look at the back of the label for the nutrition facts label. The nutrition facts label is strictly regulated by the FDA and required to provide certain information to the customer. There is no way to trick the consumer on the nutrition facts label and you can clearly see what is in the product you are purchasing. This is the best way to see added sugars, healthy fats, fiber, protein and more!

Tip 3: Buy fresh and frozen fruit and meat when you are grocery shopping

We all know how difficult it is to keep fresh fruit from going bad before we have the chance to eat it. It is devastating to have to throw away fruit that goes moldy. This doesn’t mean you should buy less of it because you can’t finish it in time. Fruit is essential to consume 2-3 a day. With that said, we know it seems inconvenient to make more than one trip to the grocery store in a week. Today we will let you in on a solution.

One way to save yourself having to back multiple trips to the grocery store is to stock up on both fresh and frozen fruits. Frozen fruit is just as nutritious as fresh fruit. Frozen fruit is picked at peak of ripeness and then flash-frozen to preserve optimal nutrition. They last for several months in the freezer. So buy as much fresh fruit that you know you can consume before it goes bad. Then, stock up on frozen fruit from there. I always try to keep frozen blueberries, frozen strawberries, and frozen mangos in my fridge for when I run out of fresh fruit. Frozen blueberries are great for adding to your oatmeal and frozen mangoes and strawberries are delicious for smoothies.

What about meat?

Just like fresh fruit, fresh or raw meat is another item that might be difficult to consume before it goes bad. Especially since raw meat can’t be kept for too long in the fridge before it is no longer safe to eat. One way to fix this problem is to plan ahead before your next trip to the store. Make a list of how many times you are going to need raw meat for your lunches and dinners and don’t overbuy. If you plan to make salmon on Monday, chicken on Wednesday, and ground turkey on Friday, stick to just buying enough to make those 3 meals. Then, stock your freezer with frozen meat and fish in case you decide to cook meat again that week. This will eliminate food waste and ensure you aren’t buying more than you can cook.

Tip 4: Buy local and in-season produce

The best products to buy are local and in-season. Although it is easy to consume the same fruits and vegetables that we are used to year-round, you are truly doing yourself a disservice by not consuming seasonal foods. At CF Nutrition, we encourage you to educate yourself on seasonal foods to improve your health and get the tastiest and freshest produce available. As an added bonus, buying fruits and vegetables that are in season will be the more affordable option. Not only that, buying fruits and vegetables in season is going to have more nutritional value. Eating the same 3 fruits and vegetables every day is a common trait for many people, but all fruits and vegetables have different nutritional compositions and have different vitamins and minerals. To get all the nutrients we need, eating a variety of fruits and vegetables is crucial.

Tip 5: Avoid foods with artificial ingredients

The ingredient list on some items at the store can get quite long and confusing. So in addition to reading the nutrition fact label for calories, macronutrients and sugar, make sure you look at the ingredient list. The FDA also regulates the ingredient list. The ingredient list is structured so that the item that has the largest amount is listed first and then in descending order after that. So if you see sugar listed as the last ingredient that is much better than if you see it listed first.

Our biggest tip for reading the nutrition label is to try to purchase foods where you can actually read all of the ingredients. More often than not, the fewer ingredients the better. So look for items with a short and simple list.

All of CF Nutrition’s products are free from artificial and synthetic ingredients. We pride ourselves on using ingredients that you as the consumer will be proud to put into your body. Our ingredient list has everything your body needs and nothing it doesn’t.

Now you have all the tips and tricks you need for your next grocery shopping trip. And don’t forget to check out our blog for more health and wellness tips.

Are CF Nutrition Products Meant for Weight Loss?

Post author By CF Clinical Nutrition
Post date March 24, 2022
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It’s no big secret that many of us strive to achieve weight loss—and finding the right approach to achieving a healthy weight can be difficult. Unfortunately, many diets available restrict proportions of fats, carbohydrates, or calories. This can make them very unsustainable and sometimes, more harmful than helpful to our health. Most of the time, restrictive diets lead to deprivation, guilt, giving in, and returning to original patterns and weight—which leaves you feeling discouraged and upset.

Today on the blog, we break down how incorporating some of CF Nutrition’s products can help you achieve weight loss when paired with a balanced diet and consistent exercise. Because, the truth is, it is best to achieve weight loss by providing your body with all the nutrients it needs to feel energized to take on daily tasks. Although not designed for weight loss, CF Nutrition’s products contain healthy fats, vitamins, antioxidants, plant-based protein, and hydration to adequately nourish and replenish your body.

How might CF Nutrition’s products help me lose weight?

Swapping out high-calorie products with lower-calorie options is one way to achieve a caloric deficit—which in turn, leads to weight loss. In America, liquid calories make up a large portion of daily caloric intake for a lot of people. From your favorite morning coffee to your glass of wine at night, liquid calories tend to add up, leading to weight gain. Switching to lower calorie options (that are beneficial to your health) may help you lose weight. CF Nutrition products range from 40 to 200 calories per serving. Not only that, they are actually beneficial to your health, rather than just providing “empty calories”.

Here is a breakdown of the benefits that few of our products can provide.

At just 40 calories per serving, CF(Rehydrate)® efficiently hydrates your body by rapidly replenishing electrolytes, especially after working out or being in the heat.
CF(Rehydrate)®Immunity+, just 60 calories per 16 ounces serving, has all the benefits of CF(Rehydrate)® plus an additional dose of Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Magnesium, and Zinc to help support your immune system.
CF(Protein)® has 200 calories per bottle but it is packed with 13 grams of fiber, omega 3’s, and 13 grams of plant protein which will help you meet your protein needs, keep your heart healthy, and allow you to feel full longer. And let’s be real – this is still less than that delicious latte you consume each morning.

Another factor that may prevent weight loss is consuming too much added sugars. Excess consumption of added sugars is a significant factor that can eventually lead to obesity and diabetes. Ensuring you are limiting your added sugars is crucial to your weight loss journey. All of CF Nutrition’s products contain 0-4 grams of added sugar. So, when you feel thirsty for something other than water, try one of CF Nutrition’s products to quench your thirst without packing on the pounds. Swapping out your typical drink filled with sugar and calories with CF(Rehydrate)® or CF(Rehydrate)®Immunity+ will help you in your weight loss journey.

Can increasing my protein intake help with weight loss?

Ensuring you are meeting your protein needs is another factor that can help you achieve a healthy weight. CF(Protein)® contains 13 grams of pea protein and no added sugar. Consuming a clean plant-based protein drink like CF(Protein)® may help you lose weight when combined with a nutritious eating pattern and a consistent exercise routine. Research shows that a high protein diet might promote healthy eating patterns and promote weight loss and fat loss. To put CF(Protein)® to the test, we conducted a research study that involved participants drinking one CF(Protein)® a day for 6 weeks. Those who consumed one bottle per day improved overall body composition by reducing percent body fat, losing weight, and improving BMI. So, it’s safe to say CF(Protein)® can definitely help you achieve your weight loss goals.

4 ways to eat healthily and how CF Nutrition products help you achieve these habits?

Here are our 4 main tips to promote weight loss without deprivation:

Stay hydrated
Eat healthy fats
Choose clean protein
Choose less added sugar

With CF Nutrition’s products, you can easily incorporate all 4 of these habits into your day. Drinking CF(Rehydrate)®Immunity+ and CF(Rehydrate)® will provide your body with the electrolytes you need without the harmful additives found in other hydration products. Both CF(Rehydrate)®Immunity+ and CF(Rehydrate)® can help prevent dehydration and provide efficient recovery. CF(Protein)® contains healthy fats with chia seed oil and 13g of plant-based protein. All of CF Nutrition’s products are low in added sugar, unlike many of our competitors.

How can I incorporate CF Nutrition’s products into my day to help with weight loss?

CF nutrition’s products are full of vitamins, minerals, medical-grade nutrition, omega 3’s, plant-based protein, and more. Consuming CF Nutrition’s products combined with well-balanced meals and physical activity will help promote your weight loss. Instead of grabbing a sugar-sweetened beverage after a workout, try one of CF Nutrition’s products to help nourish your body. Our products are low-calorie and every ingredient provides your body with some sort of benefit. CF Nutrition’s products contain the ideal ingredients to help you feel your best without the harmful additives in traditional sports drinks.

Now that you know CF Nutrition’s products can help you achieve a healthy lifestyle, what are you waiting for? Order today to start feeling your best!

Eating for Two? Nutrition During Pregnancy Broken Down

Post author By CF Clinical Nutrition
Post date March 10, 2022
No Comments on Eating for Two? Nutrition During Pregnancy Broken Down

Are you pregnant or trying to become pregnant? If the answer is yes….. we have you covered on the ins and outs of what to eat throughout your pregnancy. We know how much there is to worry about when you’re pregnant and we are here to help you navigate the do’s and don’ts of nutrition during this very special time.

Foods to Avoid

While pregnant, it is important to avoid certain foods that may cause harm to the fetus. Here we break down what foods to limit and avoid during pregnancy.

Caffeine (one 8oz cup per day may be okay)
Alcohol
Raw or uncooked meats, seafood, and eggs
Fish with high mercury levels (like canned tuna, shark, swordfish, king mackerel, tilefish)
Soft cheeses like blue, feta, and brie
Unpasteurized apple cider and juices
Hot dogs and deli meats
Tobacco and illicit drugs

What Should I Focus on?

Eating too little of the right foods can also pose a risk for your baby. What you eat while pregnant is the foundation on which your baby is built. Here are tips on how to ensure you are fueling yourself and your baby in the best way possible.

A healthy well-balanced diet with lots of variety
12, 8 ounce cups of water
- Try CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ for medical grade hydration during pregnancy
Calcium, Iron, Folic Acid, and Fiber
Extra calories should be from nutritious foods
At least 3 cups of low-fat or fat-free dairy foods for calcium and Vitamin D
3 cups of veggies and 2 cups of fruit a day
At least 5-6 ounces of protein per meal
At least 2-7 ounces of grains (aim for whole grain)
Safe food handling
- Limit cross-contamination
- Wash hands thoroughly
- Chill perishable food immediately
- Cook meats to a proper internal temperature
Omega 3’s, like CF(Protein)®
- CF(Protein)® uses chia seed oil as a source of omega 3 that will benefit you and your baby during and after pregnancy

Nutrition During Each Trimester

Just because you are pregnant does not mean you actually need to double your calories to effectively, “eat for two”. While we understand cravings and indulging at times, it is important to not eat too much during pregnancy. Listen to your doctor on how much weight gain is healthy during your pregnancy. Typically, ~20-35LB is considered healthy weight gain during pregnancy but everyone’s a little different.

If you are a healthy weight before becoming pregnant, you do not need to consume many extra calories during the 1st trimester. Aim for ~100 extra calories per day from nutritious sources.

During your second and third trimesters, you should aim to consume ~300 additional calories per day. However, these foods should come from nutrition-dense foods like nuts, avocado, whole grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables. It is important to fuel your body in the best way possible while pregnant.

Nutrition While Breastfeeding

We understand that breastfeeding may not be an option for everyone, however, there is a benefit to breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding, it is important to consume ~350 additional calories each day. Again, these calories must be from nutritious sources.

Now you have all the information you need to nourish yourself and your baby through the entirety of your pregnancy. Don’t forget to purchase CF(Protein)® or CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ for hydration and fuel for you and your little one. And remember to check the blog for more information on staying healthy.

Tags nutrition during pregnancy, pregnancy

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