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Exercise Featured Posts Healthy Lifestyle Nutrition

All About Trifecta Energy

CF Nutrition is excited to announce the launch of our all new beverage TRIFECTA Energy! TRIFECTA  Energy presents a novel approach to energy beverages, diverging from the conventional options available in the market. This avant-garde drink stands out for its absence of added sugars and synthetic colorants, making it a preferable choice for individuals in pursuit of an energy lift without compromising on health. Formulated with organic components, TRIFECTA Energy not only recharges your system but also aids in hydration and fortifies your immune defenses. Immerse yourself in the harmonious amalgamation of flavor and well-being that TRIFECTA Energy offers.

What are the main components of TRIFECTA  Energy?

  • Hydration tailored for adults
  • Essential Vitamins and Minerals to fortify the Immune System
  • Consistent and PURE energy devoid of the typical jitters or energy crashes

When to Use?

  • Post-Workout Recovery
  • Pre-Workout Boost
  • During Illness
  • Alleviating Hangover Symptoms
  • When in need of an energy surge

What’s In TRIFECTA Energy?

  • Allulose:
    • Allulose, a natural sugar derived from figs and grains, emerges as a transformative element in TRIFECTA Energy. Not only is Allulose low in calories, but it also boasts various health advantages. Studies have revealed its anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-obesity properties. Allulose aids in regulating blood sugar levels, thereby assisting in reducing inflammation and curbing hunger pangs effectively.
  • Electrolytes:
    • Sodium and potassium are pivotal components of TRIFECTA, a hydrating elixir meticulously crafted to replenish essential fluids and crucial electrolytes lost during physical exertion or sickness. With elevated levels of sodium, it facilitates the swift restoration of these vital nutrients for prompt recovery. Whether you are an athlete or recuperating from an ailment, TRIFECTA Energy emerges as the optimal choice to sustain hydration levels and expedite recovery processes. TRIFECTA Energy serves as a potent solution to combat potassium depletion in the body, a common occurrence during strenuous physical activities. Potassium, in conjunction with sodium and chloride, plays a pivotal role in preserving bodily fluids. TRIFECTA Energy aids in maintaining normal potassium levels, thereby bolstering overall health.
  • Vitamin B12
    • Vitamin B12 assumes a critical role in red blood cell production, essential for oxygen delivery throughout the body. This oxygen is subsequently converted into energy, supporting optimal bodily functions and holistic well-being. Additionally, vitamin B12 contributes significantly to DNA synthesis, a fundamental process for cell formation. By augmenting your vitamin B12 intake through TRIFECTA Energy, you can replenish energy reserves and bolster your overall health.
  • Magnesium
    • Magnesium content in TRIFECTA Energy facilitates healthy muscle function and glucose metabolism. Magnesium is indispensable for utilizing energy-rich compounds, making it imperative for post-exercise recuperation. Prolonged physical activity can deplete magnesium levels, potentially compromising physical performance and temporarily weakening the immune system. TRIFECTA Energy aids in replenishing magnesium reserves, thereby supporting immune functions and serving as an ideal remedy for individuals recuperating from intense physical exertion or illness.
  • Caffeine and L-Theanine
    • Caffeine and L-Theanine jointly feature in TRIFECTA Energy, with 80 mg of caffeine complemented by L-Theanine, a natural component found in tea leaves and mushrooms. This unique combination offers a natural energy surge devoid of subsequent crashes. Extensive research validates the health benefits of L-Theanine, showcasing its efficacy in enhancing human well-being. By incorporating L-Theanine, TRIFECTA Energy mitigates the typical jitters and crashes associated with caffeine consumption. Studies suggest that L-Theanine aids in alleviating physical and mental stress symptoms, leading to reduced anxiety levels and improved sleep quality. TRIFECTA Energy is meticulously designed to elevate recovery processes and overall wellness by elevating GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), serotonin, and dopamine levels, fostering relaxation, positive moods, and stress reduction. Furthermore, it enhances focus and creativity by inducing alpha waves and can even lower blood pressure during stressful periods.
  • Zinc and Vitamin E
    • Zinc and Vitamin E play pivotal roles in bolstering a robust immune response. These nutrients function as antioxidants, shielding cells from damage and supporting the growth and activity of immune cells. Moreover, they contribute to antibody production, crucial for combating infections effectively. By incorporating TRIFECTA Energy into your daily regimen, you can ensure that your body receives the essential nutrients required to uphold a resilient and efficient immune system.

TRIFECTA  Energy is coming out SOON! Follow us on social media to be the first to order and hear all important updates!

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Featured Posts Nutrition Wellness + Medical Tips

The Art of Harmonizing Nutrition, Hydration, and Exercise

While nutrition and hydration often take center stage on our platform, today, our focus shifts to the integration of these elements with exercise. Achieving optimal synergy between nutrition, hydration, and exercise is pivotal for maximizing performance and reaping the full benefits of physical activity. CF Nutrition’s products are designed to help you, alongside physical activity to truly optimize your well being.

Nutrition and Exercise: A Symbiotic Relationship
Nutrition and exercise exert a profound influence on the other. Proper nutrition serves as the fuel that powers physical exertion, enabling individuals to perform at their peak. Conversely, exercise impacts the body’s nutritional needs, necessitating strategic dietary adjustments to support enhanced performance and recovery.

Hydration’s Role in Exercise
Adequate hydration is crucial for sustaining optimal physical performance. Water is the body’s primary component, and its consumption is vital for regulating body temperature, lubricating joints, and facilitating nutrient transport. During exercise, the body’s demand for hydration escalates, underscoring the need for strategic fluid intake to avert dehydration and sustain peak performance. When exercising, water is often not enough based on your body’s losses during exercise. CF(Rehydrate)® effectively replenishes electrolytes and is an excellent source of hydration. 

Strategies for Harmonizing Nutrition, Hydration, and Exercise

  • Pre-Workout Nutrition:
    • Consume a balanced meal comprising carbohydrates, lean protein, and healthy fats approximately 2-3 hours before exercise to provide sustained energy.
    • Opt for easily digestible snacks, such as a banana or yogurt, 30-60 minutes before a workout to fuel shorter bouts of exercise.
  • Hydration Pre-Exercise:
    • Drink 16-20 ounces of water 2-3 hours before exercise.
    • Consume an additional 8-10 ounces of water or CF(Rehydrate)® 10-20 minutes before commencing physical activity.
  • During Exercise:
    • Maintain hydration by sipping water at regular intervals, aiming for 7-10 ounces every 10-20 minutes during exercise.
    • For prolonged or intense workouts, drink CF(Rehydrate)® to sustain optimal performance.
  • Post-Workout Nutrition:
    • Consume a combination of carbohydrates and protein within 45 minutes of completing exercise to replenish glycogen stores and facilitate muscle recovery.
    • Opt for nutrient-dense foods to support the body’s repair and recovery processes.
  • Hydration Post-Exercise:
    • Rehydrate by consuming CF(Rehydrate)® to compensate for electrolytes lost during exercise to restore fluid balance.

By strategically aligning dietary choices and fluid intake with physical activity, you can optimize your performance, expedite recovery, and fortify their overall well-being. In conclusion, the harmonization of nutrition, hydration, and exercise is a cornerstone of holistic health and fitness. By embracing a comprehensive approach that integrates these elements seamlessly, individuals can unlock their full potential and embark on a journey of enhanced vitality and physical prowess.

Let’s embark on this journey together, visit our website to learn more and purchase the best hydration products around.

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Nutrition Preparing for Surgery

How to Optimize Your Post Surgery Recovery With Nutrition

We know that recovering from surgery can be stressful and let’s face it, it’s TOUGH? Just like many things in life, focusing on nutrition after surgery can help you bounce back faster than ever! Today, we break down how you can optimize your recovery through nutrition. 

Tip #1 Eat Enough Calories- especially from Protein

Surgery puts your body under a TON of stress. Your main priority after surgery should be adequate nutrition and calories- NOT weight loss. Some people fear that due to inactivity, recovery may cause weight gain. This is a valid fear, but decreasing calories after surgery is not recommended. In actuality, your caloric needs are actually higher because your body needs extra fuel during the healing process. Protein becomes especially important to help your body heal and for tissue repair and growth. If you undereat during the healing process, your recovery time may be prolonged. If you are unsure of how many calories and how much protein you need after surgery, it is best to speak to your healthcare professional. 

Tip #2 Hydrate!

Equally as important as getting adequate calories from food comes HYDRATION! Typically, it is recommended to drink at least 8 cups of water per day. During recovery, adequate hydration is crucial! If you are not already in the habit of keeping your water intake up, then now is the time to start. In order for your body to heal, maintaining adequate hydration is key. In addition, certain medications may require you to consume more fluid than normal, so check with your doctor. 

CF Nutrition offers two amazing hydration products that will come in handy during recovery. CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ and CF(Rehydrate)®  are excellent choices for optimal hydration after surgery. Each drink has key vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes to effectively replenish and hydrate. Order these products now to accelerate post surgery recovery.

Tip #3 Eat Balanced Meals

As we pointed out above, now is not the time to diet, but it is the time to focus on nutrient dense meals. Post surgery, eating well balanced meals and a variety of foods helps your body get the nutrients it needs for tissue repair. Try to get all three macronutrients in to help accelerate your recovery. This means, you want to include protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. It is also important to include fruits and veggies to get in your micronutrients.

Here are some examples of great post surgery meals:

  • Salmon with Potatoes and Brussel Sprouts
  • Chicken Breast with Brown Rice, Broccoli and Avocado
  • Black Beans and Brown Rice with Bell Peppers and Onions
  • Avocado Toast With a Hard Boiled Egg and Fruit
  • Mahi Mahi on a Whole Wheat Tortilla with Avocado Slices
  • Greek Yogurt with Sliced Almonds and Blueberries 

Recovering from surgery is no joke- but with the proper nutrition, you CAN accelerate your recovery. Take control of your nutrition and follow these tips to feel your best after surgery. Visit our website for more post surgery tips and tricks.

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Healthy Lifestyle Nutrition

3 Key Habits to Implement This Year

It’s that time of year again where New Year resolutions are in full effect. At CF Nutrition, our goal is to give you the tools to feel your best all year long. It is time to

kickstart a happier, healthier you in the new year! In today’s blog, discover some effective habits to transform your well-being and radiate positivity all year long. 

Habit #1 Incorporate More Plant Based Meals

There are so many benefits of focusing on plant based foods for one or even two days a week. You don’t have to go completely vegan, but incorporating plant based days can show a positive change in your body and health. Plant based foods help support your immune system. This is because plant based foods have essential vitamins and minerals that you can’t get from other foods. They also contain antioxidants which help keep your cells healthy and your body in balance. This in turn, helps your immune system function better. By incorporating more plant based foods into your diet, your body will better be able to fight off infections and protect you against viruses and germs. A strong immune system will also help reduce your risk for developing chronic disease like cancer. 

Habit #2 Plan Your Meals Ahead of Time 

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. 

Habit #3 Stay Hydrated

Hydration is KEY to feeling your best. During the winter time, when it is cold, sometimes we forget to drink enough water. It is crucial we continue to make hydration a top priority even in the colder months.  In order to stay hydrated, an adequate balance of water and electrolytes is crucial. 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. Adding CF(Rehydrate)® into your daily routine is a sure fire way to stay on top of your hydration needs.

Now you have 3 key habits to incorporate to feel your best all year long. Visit our website to learn more about how to stay healthy this year!

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Exercise Featured Posts Healthy Lifestyle Nutrition

End 2023 Feeling Your Best Our Top Tips to Stay Healthy

We know the holidays can be a busy time of year and sometimes we sacrifice our health leading up to the new year. But let’s change that this year. Don’t wait until the new year to start incorporating healthy choices into your daily routine. Today, we share our top tips on how to stay healthy this holiday season and kick start your new year goals early!

Tip 1 Add in Some Movement!

 Exercise is a proven way to support immunity. In addition, it will help you maintain a healthy weight. During the holiday season, make sure you alot time in your schedule to get moving, whether it be by yourself or with the whole family. Getting to the gym may be harder depending on your schedule so incorporate more walks and at home workouts. 

If you are traveling, it may be more difficult to stay focused on exercise. However, having ideas for maintaining your fitness beforehand will likely encourage you to stick to a more consistent schedule. Consider purchasing an apple watch or fit bit to help you stay on top of getting steps in daily. Set a daily target for movement goals and stick to them even while you are away. Maybe try and visit walking trails or hikes a few days of your trip as this is an easy way to stay active. 

No matter where you are, make sure to plan your exercise recovery accordingly by bringing an electrolyte beverage like CF(Rehydrate)® with you for post-workout recovery. 

Tip 2 Plan Ahead if you are Traveling

Like most things in life, a little bit of preplanning and forethought is often beneficial (if not necessary) for enabling plans to run smoothly. If you are visiting a big resort that includes meals, we suggest calling ahead to ensure healthy food and beverage items are available. The same protocol applies to any restaurants you plan to attend, especially if they are part of a preset itinerary where attendance is required. These suggestions are especially important if you have any specific dietary needs or restrictions, such as gluten intolerance or a dairy allergy. Most hotels and chefs will be more than happy to accommodate your needs. If they’re not, checking in beforehand will allow enough time to adjust your travel plans and go elsewhere, if needed.

If you’re traveling for pleasure and can eat wherever you want during your trip, consider browsing local restaurants and cafes that offer healthy menu items beforehand. Yelp, Happy Cow, and Google are all great resources for identifying restaurants that cater to specific dietary needs and specialty food preferences. While trying local cuisines can be a fun part of the travel experience, it may be helpful to eat at least one meal a day closer to your usual diet to avoid shocking your digestive tract. If you plan on arriving in a city early in the morning or late in the evening, you can also check out which restaurants can deliver directly to your hotel room and order on the way. Knowing where to order ahead of time can prevent getting overly hungry and making food choices out of convenience over health.

Tip 3 Increase Your Fiber Intake

Consuming enough fiber is crucial to regulating bowel function, weight, and blood glucose management and preventing certain diseases. 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.

 Fiber may help reduce the risk of developing various diseases, including heart disease and diabetes. Studies show that the intake of fiber lowers the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) cross-sectional Data (2003-2006) showed that intake of whole grains (rich in fiber) was associated with enhancing the effects of statin in lower cholesterol. Fiber may also  help prevent constipation by regulating bowel movements. Constipation is a common gastrointestinal problem that many people experience. If you have chronic constipation, you may need to ramp up your fiber intake, and drinking CF(Protein)®, is an easy and effective way to do so. As always, if you have a chronic health issue, it is best to speak to your doctor for any specific recommendations.

Fiber can also help maintain a healthy weight. High fiber foods are typically more filling than lower fiber foods. They also help keep you feeling fuller for longer. Satiety is the term used to describe your fullness. Fiber increases satiety after a meal. If you are looking to lose weight, increasing your fiber intake may help by increasing satiety and preventing the intake of excess calories.

Now you have all the tips and tricks to stay healthy and finish 2023 strong, start adding in some healthy habits TODAY! Visit our website to learn more!

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Featured Posts Nutrition

3 Delicious Fall Recipes To Keep You Hydrated and Healthy

It is officially that time of year again. The weather is cooling down, and the holidays are fast approaching. The holiday season is a time to spend with family and friends enjoying delicious food and company. But, we cannot forget to stay healthy and hydrated. Today, we share 3 delicious Fall recipes using CF Nutrition products to enjoy as we prepare for the holidays to arrive. These drinks will have you feeling your very best this holiday season.

Delicious and Hydrating Fall Smoothie With CF(Rehydrate)® 

Ingredients:

  • 2 handfuls kale 
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice 
  • 1/2 can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie mix)
  • 1 Granny Smith apple (large, cut into chunks, discard the stem and seeds)
  • 1 banana
  • 2 Tbsp. chia seeds
  • 12 Oz CF(Rehydrate)® (Any flavor)

Directions:

Blend all ingredients together and Enjoy!

This smoothie is a great way to fill up on some fall favorites like pumpkin and apples. By adding CF(Rehydrate)® you also get an excellent dose of electrolytes to keep you hydrated. This is a great smoothie to have after a workout or a long walk in the crisp fall air.  

Anti-inflammatory Smoothie With CF(Protein)® 

Directions:

Blend all ingredients together and Enjoy!

When you make this delicious smoothie, you may notice the bright color of CF(Protein)®. CF (Protein)® gets its vibrant yellow color from the naturally vibrant herb, turmeric. Rather than use artificial colors or additives, we use turmeric because of its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that promote healing and restoration for our customers. Due to the anti-inflammatory properties in CF(Protein)®, this smoothie will help support your immune system and keep you healthy all season long. 

Berry Blast Mocktail With CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+

Ingredients:

Directions:

Mix all ingredients together and Enjoy!

Another excellent way to support our immune system and stay healthy is to switch some of those cocktails out for a mocktail, especially when CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ is the main ingredient. While enjoying some drinks with family and friends maybe mix in this delicious mocktail using CF(Rehydrate)® to stay hydrated! The best part is, it tastes delicious!
Now you have all the information you need to create the perfect blend of hydration and immunity this Fall! Visit our website to purchase our delicious products!

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Healthy Lifestyle Nutrition

Why is Protein Important in my Diet?

Protein is one of the three macronutrients that is necessary to include in your daily diet. Despite recommendations from different FAD diets, you need all three macronutrients in order to maintain your health, energy, and fitness goals. Eliminating any of the three macronutrients puts you at risk for nutrient deficiencies and illnesses. 

What is the purpose of protein in my diet?

Protein has several important roles in our body. It helps you build muscle and helps you recover. It also helps repair your muscles and keeps you well nourished. 

How do I incorporate protein in my diet?

Not all protein is created equal. One easy tip when choosing a protein is to choose lean protein over breaded or fried. It is also best to limit red meat to once or twice a week. Although red meat serves as an excellent source of protein and iron, it is also high in saturated fat which can lead to high cholesterol. Another tip is to incorporate fish 2-3 times per week. Fish is a great source of lean protein and certain fish like salmon and tuna can provide omega-3. Omega-3 helps to raise the good cholesterol, HDL. 

It is also important to incorporate plant based meals when possible. One way to add plant based protein into your diet is with CF(Protein)®. CF(Protein)® has 13 grams of protein from 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.).

How much protein should I be eating?

The amount of protein you need is different based on many factors including, age, weight, height, activity level, among other things. To find out how much protein you need, we recommend speaking to your doctor or a trained professional. 

What are the recommended uses for CF(Protein)®?

CF(Protein)® is an excellent product to consume regardless of whether or not you have a surgery on the calendar. A rich source of plant-based protein, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds, this nutrient-dense drink provides a concentrated dose of healthy ingredients to fuel your day.

Some ingredient highlights include:

  1. Plant Protein: Our plant-based protein is easily digested, with yellow-pea protein contributing a significant dose of amino acids that promote muscle recovery and repair.
  2. Complex Carbohydrates: Complex carbohydrates derived from fruits allow CF(Protein)® to deliver a rich energy source without the use of cheap, low-quality additives and simple sugars found in most protein drinks.
  3. Healthy Fats: Functional fats from chia seed oil provides a healthy dose of essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to help minimize inflammation and saturate the body with healthy fats.
  4. Electrolytes: Coconut water is an excellent source of essential hydration, supplying minerals and electrolytes to recover and revitalize from surgery, sports, or summer heat.

While CF(Protein)® is a great on-the-go snack or mealtime supplement for anyone, it may be particularly useful in supporting the nutritional status of certain people. 

At CF Nutrition, we recommend consuming 1-2 bottles of CF(Protein)® daily if you are:

  • An athlete (or particularly active individual)
  • Underweight or malnourished
  • Elderly
  • Recovering from illness or injury
  • Preparing for or recovering from surgery
  • Following a liquid diet
  • Traveling

For more information on CF(Protein)® and a complete list of ingredients and nutrition, please click here.

So what are you waiting for, get the best on the go protein now. Visit our website to purchase. 

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Featured Posts Nutrition Pediatrics

The Kids Are Back To School- Stay Healthy With CF Nutrition

Summer is coming to a close and most of our kids are already heading back to school! This means we need to take extra measures to keep our families healthy and hydrated! Today we share our top tips to stay healthy and highlight what products can help support wellness for your entire family and take a little of the hard work for you!

Stock Up on CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+

CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ is the perfect on-the-go immune support beverage to pack in your child’s lunch box. It does not have excess amounts of sugar, unethically sourced ingredients, harmful additives, or anything else that can compromise your health and wellness. As the busy back-to-school season begins, CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ can help you and your family get the vitamins and minerals you need but may not otherwise consume on a regular basis. 

Immunity drinks, then, are a great supplemental solution and help you ensure your child consumes the daily intake of vitamins and minerals a properly functioning immune system requires, without having to force them to shovel down steamed broccoli in the coveted few minutes they have in between the end of the school day and the start of baseball practice. 

The great thing about CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ is it actually tastes good! We know that kids are not going to drink something that doesn’t taste good. CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+  has medical grade ingredients without the medicinal taste or chalky texture. It comes in three highly reviewed flavors- Orange, Aloha Blend, and Kiwi Strawberry. 

 Get Your Healthy Fats in With CF(Protein)®

 CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ isn’t the only CF Nutrition product that is a great addition to your child’s lunch box. CF(Protein)® is another kid friendly beverage that can be consumed as an on-the-go snack. Our plant based protein drink comes in an 8 ounce bottle and is an excellent addition to ensure a well-rounded, nutrient-dense meal. It contains an abundance of vitamins and minerals derived from fruits and vegetables, along with other healthful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory 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. 

Back-to-school season can be tough, but with CF Nutrition on your side—you and your family can easily reap the benefits of essential vitamins, minerals, and medical-grade hydration and clean protein!

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For Med Pros Nutrition Preparing for Surgery

Is CF(Preop)® Safe For Patients with Diabetes?

One of the most asked questions when it comes to CF(Preop)® is whether or not patients with diabetes may consume it before surgery. Today, we break down the research surrounding preoperative carbohydrate loading for patients with diabetes. We also discuss CF Nutrition’s protocol for carbohydrate loading in patients with diabetes.

 Why is preoperative carb loading necessary?

Before ERAS® protocols were discovered, the traditional approach to surgery was to fast after midnight prior to surgery to decrease the risk for aspiration. In the 1990’s, evidence-based research suggested that this was not necessary. 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 is fasted for a prolonged time, glycogen stores are depleted which can lead 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 . To enhance recovery after surgery, it is important to decrease PIR. Preoperative carbohydrate loading maximizes glycogen stores in the body as an energy source in order to minimize degeneration of body tissues and reduce insulin resistance. By changing the metabolic state, and shortening preoperative fasting (aka providing a complex carbohydrate 2-3 hours prior to surgery), PIR will be decreased, protein loss will be reduced, and muscle function will improve.

What has CF Nutrition done to research the use of CF(Preop)® for patients with diabetes?

The founder of CF Nutrition, Dr. Lou Marsh, researched CF(Preop)® and blood glucose levels extensively. She found that after ingestion of 50 grams of carbohydrate, the blood glucose levels will spike in any individual. What becomes important is the time the patient drinks CF(Preop)® and the time the blood glucose levels are checked. This will help to see where each specific patient’s blood glucose levels are at two hours after consuming CF(Preop)® and eliminate any excess intervention which leads to hypoglycemia intra-operatively. If blood sugars are checked prior to the two hour mark, excess insulin may be prescribed which leads to hypoglycemia intra-operatively. CF Nutrition provides a questionnaire to help create a standardization of care for checking blood glucose before, during and after surgery. 

What research studies support preoperative carb loading in patients with diabetes?

Administering a carbohydrate drink prior to surgery leaves some surgeons skeptical on the effects it may have on blood glucose levels. Unfortunately, several studies exclude diabetic patients. However, there are some studies that have been done to evaluate the safety of administering dextrose to diabetic patients undergoing surgery. Gustafsson et al conducted a study to evaluate the safety of preoperative carbohydrate loading on patients with diabetes. Twenty-five patients were included with type 2 diabetes (mean HbAlc 6.2± 0.2%) and 10 healthy control subjects. A carbohydrate drink (400mL, 12.5%) was given with the determination of gastric emptying. 

As expected, peak glucose was significantly higher in the diabetic patients compared to the control (p<0.01) and occurred later after intake of the carbohydrate drink (p<0.01). Glucose returned to baseline in 180 minutes in diabetic patients and 120 minutes in the control group (p<0.01). In terms of gastric emptying, at 120 minutes, 10.9 ± 0.7% and 13.3 ± 1.2% of paracetamol remained in the stomach in diabetic and healthy subjects respectively. Gastric half-emptying time occurred at 49.8 ± 2.2 minutes in diabetics and 58.6± 3.7 minute in healthy subjects (p<0.05). These results illustrate that there are no signs of delayed gastric emptying. Therefore, a carbohydrate drink can safely be administered 180 minutes before anesthesia without risk of hyperglycemia or aspiration risk preoperatively according to the results from this study.

​Furthermore, Li Na Ge et al conducted a systematic review to examine the effectiveness and safety of oral carbohydrates in those with diabetes. The review included 5 randomized control trials. Because there are no widely accepted indicators of the effects of preoperative carbohydrate in surgical patients with diabetes, this systematic review intended to offer a basis for the progress of ERAS® pathways for diabetic patients. This systematic review concludes that preoperative oral carbohydrate is effective, safe, and feasible for patients with diabetes. When a diabetic patient is fasted, the lack of glycogen reserve can lead to an insufficient energy supply, strong fluctuation of blood glucose, increased risk of hypoglycemia, nerve and kidney damage, and injury of tissues and organs. Additionally, prolonged fasting increases stress. This increased stress joint with surgical trauma can lead to increased glucocorticoids and glucagon, reduced insulin sensitivity, and reduced utilization of glucose in peripheral tissues. As a result, patients are at risk for postoperative hyperglycemia and increased insulin resistance. Postoperative insulin resistance can increase risk for developing infection and increasing length of stay. By consuming an oral carbohydrate 2-3 hours before surgery, the energy supply is enhanced consequently reducing perioperative hypoglycemia and insulin resistance. 

Providing a carbohydrate drink prior to surgery may help to reduce the stress response of surgery and put the body into a FED state entering surgery. Putting the body into a more normal physiological state entering surgery may be advantageous in overall recovery. 

What are CF Nutrition’s recommendations for CF(Preop)® and patients with diabetes?

With all this being said, here are important things to consider when providing CF(Preop)® to a diabetic patient:

1. Do they have a known risk for delayed gastric emptying? If so, consider adjusting the window for consuming CF(Preop)® per MD recommendations

2. A pt’s blood glucose will spike after the consumption CF(Preop)® however, it should return to baseline

3. Blood glucose should be checked regularly 

CF Nutrition  Recommendations:

Type 1 Diabetic 

With appropriate insulin administration, yields euglycemia. 

• 1st Bottle: Drink the night before surgery once in the fasting window 

• 2nd Bottle: Complete 2 hours before surgery Patients simply “match their short-acting insulin injections” to their blood glucose level and to the carb load that is listed on the drink label.

Type 2 Diabetic 

With preservation of their oral antihyperglycemic agent schedule at bedtime. 

• 1st Bottle: Drink the night before surgery once in the fasting window

• 2nd Bottle: Complete 2 hours before surgery Morning dose of oral agent may be held based on the actual surgical time, e.g., as when surgery is scheduled as one of the first cases of the morning.

Now that you know CF(Preop)® may be used in patients with diabetes, visit our website to purchase today!

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Nutrition

5 Tips To Stay On Track This Summer

Summer is officially upon us. As the summer progresses, we want to make sure you are able to enjoy yourself while also still staying on track with your health and fitness goals.We know that with the kids out of school, BBQ’s every week, and pool parties galore, it can be quite hard to navigate it all. Today, we break down our top 5 tips to staying on track this summer while still enjoying some fun in the sun. 

Tip #1 Pace Yourself at a Barbecue/Events

During summer months, oftentimes we have more events and parties. One of the biggest mistakes you can make is showing up starving. Even though it may seem beneficial to save calories up and forgo eating before the event, this likely will cause more harm than good. Most of the time, if we go into a BBQ or party starving, we tend to eat more than if we would have had a nutritious breakfast beforehand. 

If you’re able, you can even come prepared with a dish to share that fits into your goals. At any event, do an initial overview of what’s available and take a minute to decide what you want. Pace yourself throughout the event and listen to your body cues.  Remember to prioritize spending time with friends and family over focusing on chowing down. Sometimes it can help to hang out away from the food table to avoid overeating.

Tip #2 Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water and electrolytes is very important. But during the summer, it’s even MORE important because you are out in the heat, which makes you extremely dehydrated. Both CF(Rehydrate)® and CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ replenishes lost fluids and essential electrolytes, including those lost quickly through sweat. CF(Rehydrate)® and CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ are great ways to ensure you are properly hydrated this summer.

Staying hydrated can help us with our satiety as well. If we are drinking more than enough water, it can reduce the risk of overeating.

Tip #3 Plan Ahead

Summer can be a busy time of year for most, especially with the kids out of school and vacations on the calendar. With travel and activities frequently planned, it’s easy to rely on fast food restaurants. But it is essential to maintain consistency and accuracy. The best way to accomplish this is to plan ahead. Right after you brush your teeth before bed, take 10-15 minutes to pre-plan your meals for the day to come. Also ensure you take some time to prepare your meals the night before. It doesn’t have to be anything crazy. Something as simple as having a sandwich ready to go, along with an apple, protein shake and a granola bar goes a long way when you have a busy day ahead.  

Before heading out, pack some healthier snacks to avoid the drive through for every meal. 

  • Fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Pre-packaged individual servings of dips like guacamole or hummus
  • No sugar added dried fruits or squeezable packets
  • Trail mix, nuts or nut butter packets
  • Low sodium jerky
  • Cheese sticks
  • Roasted chickpeas
  • Tuna or chicken salad

Tip #4 Make Choices that Will Keep You On Track

It is not an excuse to eat poorly just because it’s summer time. It can be so easy to grab the yummiest, calorie dense options when we are at a summer function. Instead, we encourage you to ensure that you are always making healthy choices FIRST. Load up your plate with a bunch of fruit and veggies. Also be mindful you are consuming as many protein sources as possible. Filling up on these nutrient dense options is not only going to make you feel good, it’s going to help with your satiety so you reduce the risk of overeating at one of these summer functions. 

The key is to find balance and control. You can still enjoy your favorite foods. It is just important to be mindful of how much you are consuming. Prior to going to the event, set a limit for yourself. For example, if it’s someone’s birthday, make it a priority that you are only going to have 1 small slice of the cake and no more than 2 glasses of wine. Setting these parameters for yourself prior to the event is the best way to hold yourself accountable. It’s much more efficient to quantify your limits instead of just saying “I am going to have a few drinks.”

Tip #5 Quit The Vacation Mode/ All or Nothing Mindset 

For most people the idea of a vacation is a time to relax, let loose, and get off all your normal routines. While this can be great for rest and relaxation, it does not mean you have to completely blow off your goals. Quit this all or nothing mindset and try to find a bit of balance when you head out for your vacation this year. Try to keep a little bit of normalcy on your vacation so you can reduce, if not, completely eliminate the amount of guilt that you will feel coming home. 

Now that you have the tools to stay on track this summer, follow us for more health and fitness tips and tricks. 

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