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Faith & Self Care

7 things I learned about myself from Empower Summer Camp

Photo Credit IG: @jamespancoastphotos

Empower Summer Camp was so much more than I expected

Fit Approach Empower Summer Camp was sponsored by various companies listed in my post and I was hosted. There may be affiliate links in my post that I will be compensated. All the opinions are my own. My Full Disclosure policy 

Empower Summer Camp was two weeks ago, and I am just now sitting down to put together all my attempts at a recap.  I have written this post three times now, from three different perspectives.  It wasn’t until this morning that I realized why I haven’t pressed publish.

The other two posts were saying all the right things.  Highlight all the companies that spoiled us, which I am grateful for but a small part of what Empower Summer Camp was for me. Really it’s just a superficial perspective on an experience that has had more of an effect on me than I realized.

Empower Summer Camp taught me seven things

1. I need to chill!

Empower Summer Camp actually was an opportunity for me to reflect and realize why I have been so frustrated the last few months.  I need to chill!  That is a common theme this summer.  My need to relax keeps coming up.  Finally, it was brought to my attention at Empower Summer Camp.

I used to relax all the time maybe a little too much. Sit in the Word for hours, Go on mindless walks, or just sit idle binging on tv shows.  Within the last four years, I have gone from sedentary to active, but too much of anything is never a good thing.

It’s Okay to miss out!

I also need to relax and stop doing so much. Something that I learned at Empower Summer Camp and from my good friend Jque. Who enjoyed the moments of Empower Summer Camp on her terms. During summer camp as I busied myself trying to attend everything. She did the things that brought her heart joy, and you could visibly see her rest at the end of our camp experience.

Stop Living in FOMO mode

Me, on the other hand, tried to attend every event because you know FOMO.  I did get rest and to take some time to do things that I haven’t done in so long. Like crafts! I LOVE TO CRAFT!  You used to always find me crocheting, sewing, hot gluing something or adding some sparkle with glitter. I did it all!  My craft time has been non-existent in the last few years. I need to chill and do that more.

 

2. I need to learn alignment.

I need to learn alignment.  I can’t be all things to all people. I watched a Periscope (yes, like 3-4 years ago) with Priscilla Shirer doing a Q & A. Someone asked her, “How do you achieve balance?” paraphrasing her reply,

“I don’t! To balance you have to keep the scale even on both sides, which is impossible. I like to try to align myself. Setup the things that will work in my life and fit them in.”

I can’t do all the things

My intentions are to do “all the things”, go to all the events, be Mom of the year, trophy wife, upstanding Church member, achieve all the certs and still be available for the people I love and a sane contribution to society. Am I asking for too much?. Often, I fall short. I need to align the things in my life that work. And, I think I need to let a lot of self-made responsibilities go or put on hold till a later time.

I need to stop holding myself down

I’m tired, and I need room to breathe, walk in nature, spend time with loved ones, and hang out with friends. Currently, all of that time is limited, and I need to make alignment in my life so that I can have more. So, I am really assessing what I need. What’s holding me down or overwhelming me and if it’s needed in my life right now?

Photo Credit IG: @jamespancoastphotos

 

3. I need to listen better.

If I were an active listener, like Jamie King said, I would have realized sooner. Listening is something that I struggle with and practice daily as a trainer.  With my clients, I have to practice listening versus hearing.  I have hour-long conversations with them two to three times a week. I need to have something to relate to them week after week.  It’s part of my job to be an active listener.

When I come home, I sometimes turn off that skill, and I hear people. My family often have to tell me things time and time again because I wasn’t actively listening. Jamie’s camp story reminded me of my need to grow in this skill.

Photo Credit IG: @jamespancoastphotos

4. I need to share authentically.

Preferably, I share the positive and keep the negative to myself.  I don’t want to be the ranter on social media. It is not my intention to add to the chaos of this world, but that is not living authentically. It’s not Sunshine and Roses every day.

Filtering Myself

When I was 25 years old, I was diagnosed with High Anxiety and Depression.  Mental health is not uncommon in my family and no surprise to me.  Throughout the years, I have chosen various ways to combat the constant nag in my head, both healthy and unhealthy.  It was only when I was authentic, real, and honest have I felt my healthiest.  Somewhere between the presets of Instagram and the motivational quotes did I forget to post about real life.

Lost in the Fluff

Even my blog post that used to be so raw and real have been fluffed over.  It’s how I have been coping with my anxiety. Painting the picture I want to see.  It wasn’t until I attended Empower Summer Camp did I become aware of how I have changed over the years.

Photo Credit IG: @jamespancoastphotos

Sharing my story at Camp

I was invited to Empower Summer Camp to speak in a group panel discussion.  The Fitapproach Dream Team wanted me to share my story.  I thought it was peculiar because I have never told my story. I didn’t know what they were expecting.  Before the “before” story, how did I get overweight?  What made me change my ways?  Or how did I get here today? And Why? or all of the above? They gave me lots of freedom to share my story.

Sharing is healing

No one has ever asked me to share my story.  I grew up in the ”Don’t ask, Don’t tell “ military home.   You don’t just solicit information about yourself for the sake of sharing.  Now that I am an adult, I have realized that my lack of sharing has been hindering my healing. Keeping it all bottled in is not healthy.

Photo Credit IG: @jamespancoastphotos

Amidst Inspiring Women at Empower Summer Camp

Tasha of Hip and Healthy Chick made that evidently clear with her story.  I was also inspired by Cam Lee to live your authentic self and be and do what you want to do in life.  Don’t let “what you’re supposed to do” hold you back.  It was such an inspiring experience to be in the company of these amazing women and share my story.

Photo Credit IG: @jamespancoastphotos

Authenticity Got Me Started

It’s also how I started this platform I shared the struggles of weight loss authentically. The highs and lows of my faith journey.  Baring my belly month after month showing that progress despite hard work can be slow. Sweaty unflattering selfies, poorly lit not as nutritional meals as I thought. I was unfiltered when I began living freely was liberating, and honestly, the draw of blogging (Influencing wasn’t even a term)..

Not sure when I began to hold back. Take it all in and hold the world on my shoulders, but that is when my anxiety began to show its evil head again.  Within the last five months, it has become an Achilles in most things that I do.

The Reality of Social Media

Why? Because Social Media has become my platform but not my life.

Being authentic in Social Media is hard.  There is an immediate response or rejection of your vulnerability.  You spill your heart out and two people like your post-Ouch! You share a motivational quote that you may or may not have posted to inspire yourself, and the crowd goes wild.  We don’t want to see the real unless it’s a real train wreck.  People are looking for the “good stuff”  a few rejected vulnerable post later you start giving the people what they want.  It’s what we are taught to do.

Being vulnerable in front of strangers

At Empower Summer Camp, I was really vulnerable. Like, I shared with a room of semi-strangers things I have only shared with close family and friends. I was sitting on “Stage” for an immediate response of approval.  And it was liberating! Despite the crowd’s reaction, my story was going to be out there, and people will either relate to me better or look at me differently.  Either way, it was exactly what I needed, and I have known this for the last two years.

Back Story:

Two years ago, when leaving Idea World Blogfest.  There was an epiphany at the airport to “Share your story,” which I immediately responded in hysterical tears. I am sure people-watchers thought I was crazy. They probably thought I was crazy. Hysterically crying at my gate over a random thought in my brain.  So, I wrote my first of over several versions of my story that day. Continuing to write, rewrite, tweak but never publish.  When I got the email from Fitapproach inviting me to share my story, I ignored it for about three days.  Never deleting it but always seeing it when I checked my inbox.

Getting Over Myself

Then three days later, I responded with full intentions on telling a version of my story without giving all the history.  I was honored to be thought of and asked without even knowing my story was other than I lost a lot of weight naturally, quickly. They never knew the Why? And How I got to a point where I needed to change my life?  Which I didn’t have to include.

I didn’t prepare for my story until the morning of the campfire.  I thought, “I know my story”, and then anxiety and nerves took over.  Tasha told me she even had a shirt with her takeaways, and then I was like,

“Oh crap! I probably should have prepared better”

Well, fast forward, because it was quite the blur and I did it!

Living life Authentically

I shared my story with the beautiful women and men (maybe man) who came to empower.  They didn’t “Boo”, they didn’t give me dirty looks, but they were actually inspired.  That’s when I realized, “I need to live authentically” why am I holding back and from whom?  Why do I care so much about other people’s opinion that I don’t even know? Why am I seeking a superficial “like”?

Photo Credit IG: @powercakes

5.  I need to meet new people

Do you follow the #SweatPink hashtag on Instagram? I do! And daily, I get a glimpse of active women being active in their communities, with their families, at their jobs, or their side hobby. It’s really encouraging to know other women are living a sweaty life.  But the 1:1 photo does not compare to the real-life connection when you get to meet these women.  They’re creativity! Energy! It cannot be replaced with a Social Media feed.

Amazing women attend Fitapproach events

I got to connect in person with women that I have never spoken to in real life. But, I feel like I know them.  These women are brilliant, go-getters, and the kind of people I want in my real life.  Empower Summer Camp left me seeking real-life connections with so many women. Even getting out more in my community. Other than the gym I am pretty much at home behind my computer. I learned that it needs to end and real life connections are valuable.

Photo Credit IG: @jamespancoastphotos

6. I need to walk in my purpose

Ronora Lodge and Retreat were located on a Native American reservation.   The grounds were sacred, and quite a few of us had different experiences.  I had a moment where six butterflies encircled me.  Butterflies have always been my thing since I was a little girl. I was even a butterfly in my Second-grade play. I also have six butterfly tattoos, I’ve had since my 18th birthday.

Well, I shared my experience with the women Deej, who is one of the owners of Ronora Lodge and Retreat and the heart and soul of the facility. She also said there was a connection to our experiences in nature.

“You’re a woman of transformation. You were put on this earth to help people transform.” Deej said without even knowing my story.

The Confirmation I needed

That was the confirmation that I already had but knew I needed.  Why I am where I am today, it has nothing to do with me but everything to do with my purpose on this earth.  So many people seek to know what their purpose is in life. I was one of those people, but getting to walk daily in what I was called to do is a very empowering, comforting feeling.  I left the weekend with so much joy and peace that has kept me for the last two weeks.

Photo Credit IG: @jamespancoastphotos

7. I need to meet up with the Sweat Pink Fam yearly and probably more

Empower Summer Camp was so much more than I expected.  I thought I was going in the woods to get eaten alive by bugs and hang out with some familiar faces of my Sweat Pink crew. Maybe Paddle Board (which I didn’t and I am mad at myself for not doing it).

I didn’t know that it was the emotional and physical reset I needed to hopefully take me through the rest of the year.  Every time I get with the women of Fitapproach, I grow.  It’s always a pivotal step on my journey. I am grateful I attended and am now going camping again for my sisters birthday next week.  Being in nature and unplugging is so needed in this world.  It’s something I will be infusing more in my life.

Photo Credit IG: @powercakes

Will I see you there next time?

I plan on going to Empower Summer Camp in Roanoake, VA.  If you’re like who I used to be and you always intend to go to the conferences but never execute. DO IT!

If you need to start saving now, do that! If you need to find, reliable childcare, pray and start working on it. Whatever your excuse was this year for not attending. Don’t let it be your excuse next year!

Not everything you attend has to be about growing your business, making money, or achieving more in your career. Sometimes you need a soul reboot and regardless of what you beliefs are from reading other attendees recaps. Empower Summer Camp is the self-care you need! So, I hope to see you next year at the Adult Empower Summer Camp. You can get on the newsletter for more info from clicking the link

Can’t forget our Sponsors

In my past post, I highlighted all the wonderfulness that was made possible because of our amazing sponsors. From food, coffee breaks, crafternoons, kick-butt workouts, delicious eats, and happy hour treats.  We were spoiled the entire weekends from the Sponsors.

I can’t thank @NowFoodOfficials for everything from toiletries to delicious smoothie bowls, kick-butt workout and post-workout fuel. Or Aftershokz for keeping us motivated with music with the Air Shokz (sidenote: did you know they have free shipping on ALL orders…just sayin’).  Bob’s Red Mill had gave us a great Oatmeal breakfast to start our day. Grass fed coffee for that morning get up and go with their ready to drink butter coffee.

Takeya for keeping us hydrated and our water icy cold.  Goodr had us looking cool with lightweight sunglasses that are perfect for active people.  Happy Hour was amazing because of our Great Lakes Collagen Friends, Suja Juice and Jade Matcha Leaf.

 

Have you ever been to adult summer camp? Have you learned something about yourself recently?

Categories
Fitness and Health Weightloss Journey Wellness

Are you getting the most out of your protein?

I was compensated by Deerland Probiotics & Enzymes through Kitchen PLAY. 

Have you heard of ProHydrolase?

Since I began my fitness journey, I have been on the search for a functional protein. I never knew the power of digestive enzymes like ProHydrolase.  I have found some protein powders that I really like. Recently, I discovered that I needed more from my protein powder. Protein powders aren’t all made the same, so it makes it hard. I also have many digestive issues, so that makes it even harder to find the right one.  Early on my journey, I realized that whey protein was not for me. Switching to plant-based protein seemed to help my digestion, but I still had issues like gas and bloating.  

My protein shake could be better. 

I have continued to search for the protein that won’t leave me gassy because protein supplements are a great way to help you reach your goal. Especially if you choose the correct one with a critical ingredient.

Why use protein powder? 

Most people use protein powder for pre- or post-workout. Protein powder is helpful to rebuild muscle and recover.  Some people drink protein shakes to find a source of low calorie, carb, and fat protein source. You can find many protein powders that fit those criteria, but it may be hard digesting them.  If you’re consuming one to two shakes a day, it can be very uncomfortable.

 

Why are protein powders hard to digest?

Many factors contribute to the poor digestion of protein. Seven factors you may have never considered that make it hard to digest your shake are:

1. Air Bubbles

are caused by too much air when you mix your protein.  The air bubbles sit in your stomach, causing bloating, cramping, and gas.  I usually shake my protein in a blender bottle. I like to drink my shakes in between my personal training clients or post-workout.  Something I never considered but all that shaking is adding air bubbles to your deliciously smooth shake. Those little air bubbles get released in your stomach and cause bloating and gas.  

 

2. Sugar Alcohols

is another reason your shake may be causing digestive issues.  Personally, I have an adverse reaction to sugar alcohol that causes my stomach to swell and bloat.  Most sugar-free proteins contain this alcohol and aggravate my stomach.

 

3. Slow Absorption.

It takes hours to absorb the protein shake. Meanwhile, the “shake” is sitting in your stomach without the presence of digestive enzymes like ProHydrolase to speed the process. Protein is sitting in your stomach, creating digestive issues. ProHydrolase has been in vitro studies and human clinical studies. The studies concluded:  that the capacity to quickly break down protein and increase the available amino acids in the blood will, in turn, lower C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and decrease the large peptides associated with digestive issues when consuming protein. Meaning, it makes it much easier for you to absorb more protein.

4.Optimal Protein Absorption.

Most proteins are not entirely absorbed in the body within 90 minutes.  If the protein has not been broken down to the smallest form what is remaining is excreted.  When you drink your protein shake, you are not receiving all of the protein that is labeled. You may only receive 30-85% of the protein that you consume — all dependent on the type of protein and ingredients. 

5. Lactose Intolerance.

Some people who are lactose intolerant don’t realize that their favorite whey protein contains dairy.  I explored the difference between Whey and Plant-based protein before, but dairy is called many other things, and Casein is one of them.  Sometimes you are consuming dairy when you don’t even realize it, causing havoc in your gut and digestive discomfort.  Casein is also an extremely slow-digesting protein. 

6.Too much protein, not enough carbs.

I look for a protein that is low in carbohydrates. It was one of my criteria when searching a protein powder to use. I didn’t realize that without the carbs, the protein remains in my stomach longer.  Holding the protein in your stomach for an extended amount of time can contribute to gas and bloating. Having a proportional amount of carbs in your shake helps you to eliminate it faster from your stomach and reduces the cause of digestive irritations. 

7. Protein Intolerance and Allergy.

Protein Intolerance and protein allergies may be another reason why you’re not getting the most out of your protein. You are protein intolerant or have an allergy that causes an excessive inflammatory immune response.  If this is your issue, you would want a doctor to diagnose you and seek their advice for a protein source.

How do I digest my protein?

Digestive issues can be embarrassing and inconvenient.  I know I have experienced digestive mishaps due to protein.  Recently, I heard of a digestive enzyme that helps you effectively and efficiently digest protein. 

Have you ever heard of ProHydrolase? 

I tried a protein powder with ProHydrolase for over a week, and honestly, I didn’t realize the difference until I tried it. While I consumed my protein with ProHydrolase, I immediately notice the lack of belly bloat. The plant-based protein powder I used also tasted amazing. It’s hard to find the right tasting plant-based protein. Although I prefer plant-based protein, ProHydrolase also helps you digest other forms of protein, including whey, soy, egg, casein, hemp, and pea protein. 

Better Protein Absorption 

It seems odd, but I also felt satiated longer. My protein shake usually leaves me needing something more within an hour. It’s more to hold me over until I can get some food. Perhaps this is because ProHydrolase has been proven to maximize the absorption of protein instead of excreting it, allowing you to get the optimal benefits. 

Find ProHydrolase 

I didn’t realize the difference in my protein until I tried a protein with ProHydrolase and now I make sure to check my protein to see if it includes ProHydrolase as an ingredient. It’s got everything I need. It’s even Non-GMO Project Verified, and Star-K Kosher certified.  When choosing your protein, look for ProHydrolase. 

Are you looking for better, digestible protein?

I was paid and compensated byDeerland Probiotics & Enzymes all the opinions are my own. My Full Disclosure policy 

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Uncategorized

7 Reasons I am attending Shift Con 2019

Finally attending Shift Con 2019

When I started as a blogger I never thought I would be attending events like Shift Con 2019. I began this blog as a Christian Mom blog.  Sharing the struggles of my faith journey. Then four years ago, I embarked on a Weight loss journey that literally changed my life and lifestyle.  With the conviction to honor my temple inside and out, I have discovered that is so much more than just exercise and nutrition. I have attended many expos and conferences in regards to Gluten-Free, Fitness, and Wellness, but nothing like Shift Con from what I hear! 

Exploring the Pillars of Wellness 

There are so many aspects to honoring your temple, but it all falls under wellness.  I like to look at wellness in seven categories:

  1. Nutrition
  2. Activity
  3. Rest
  4. Stress Management
  5. Toxic Relationships
  6. Restorative Self Care
  7. Spiritual Devotion

Shift-Con

A few years ago, I was sharing my perspective with a friend on the new Wellness journey I was embarking once I met my weight loss goal.  She had suggested I attend Shift Con. Ever since I have wanted to go but never had an opportunity because of timing, finances, or one year, I just waited too late.  Not this year, I am going, and I wanted to share why I am so excited to attend Shift Con this year.

1. Location

Shift Con is being held Oct. 3- 8th in Atlanta, GA.  This will be my first time visiting  Atlanta, Georgia. I have driven through, maybe even made a pit stop but I have never checked out the ATL. I am excited to visit a new place. 

2.Meet up with other like-minded people

It is very validating to meet other people who share the same views as you. As an African American women who care about wellness in my immediate location. I am one of the few, but when you go to conferences that are focused on Wellness. I know I am not alone. It is encouraging and an excellent opportunity to meet new people to connect. 

3. Discover new products in the wellness

The problem with products that are good for you they come at a premium. Not all do what they say.  When you go to Expos, you have the experience to try before you buy as well as learn about the new offerings in the market. I have been told that Shift Con is the best place to explore these products. 

4. Education on wellness

I am a life long learner.  Always investing in education. I am excited to attend some of the workshops and hear various speakers on Wellness. 

5.Getaway with my girlfriends for a weekend

I get to see some of my Virtual and now real-life besties!  My absolute heart JQue of JQue Now will be rooming. My very dear friend Christina of Growing Up Gorgeous is coming and my Soul Sister Sandrell of NaturalFlyDiva. The Ultimate Slumber Party with some amazing women and I just can’t wait!

6. Finally, get to attend something I have watched others grow

I have been watching via Online Shift Con; it always looks like so much fun. I always see so many bloggers and Influencer that I follow and have watched some cool collaborations manifest through Shift Con networking. And I want in on that! Sometimes you have to leave the comforts of your home office to connect, and I am ready to make connections in the Wellness Industry. 

7. Post Back to School Vacation

I don’t know about you, but by the beginning of October, my family is just recovering from the madness of Back to School with three kids. It will be a welcomed treat to get away and learn, shift, and grow at Shift Con, and I can’t wait. 

Excited to attend Shift Con 2019

I have no idea what to expect other than what I see through Social Media, but I am excited to attend.  I would love for you to join me. If you’re like me curious about the even then you should come and let’s meetup.  Even though I have never attended, I know that the investment in my education about wellness and holistic products would be worth it; everything else is a bonus.

Are you going to Shift Con? Do you go to Expos or Conferences like Shift Con?

Categories
Wellness

Medterra CBD

I use CBD 

Yes! I use CBD Oil

Within the last year, as predicted in the previous year. CBD has exploded and its in everything. Some people know why you need CBD. Others have fear for the unknown, and there are those like me who are curious about an alternative to prescription drugs.

Skepticism of CBD

Some people coin it as the “miracle oil” while others are skeptical. I know for me it has helped with several ailments and something I am discovering more and more to benefit. With the rise of Cannabinoid Oil in the market and the testimonies of people who use CBD. I get asked all the time in a quiet secret voice, “Have you heard about CBD?” And when I reply, “Yes! I use it every day!” A bottle of Medterra CBD tincture contains 30 servings per bottle.

Where can you get CBD?

My next question is, where do you get it? For a while, various CBD companies sent me products to try. There are so many products, but I only share what I believe. So, I had to find a Cannabinoid source that was reputable, and I would trust to share with people I know and my Bible and Bootcamps Beauties!

Reputable CBD

I believe that Medterra is a reputable brand I can recommend to my family and friends.  It was started by a group of people who are passionate about Cannabboid. Medterra believes that quality trustworthy CBD should be accessible to everyone. So, I am unashamed in my use of Cannabinoid. It has helped my family and I. Although; the Cannabboid industry does have a bad reputation for unregulated and poorly produced products that don’t work. 

What is CBD?

Last fall, I discovered Cannabidiol or CBD. Cannabidiol is a phytocannabinoid found in agricultural hemp. Daily is gaining attention and popularity because people are finding many benefits for both human and animal health. In research, it is found to be affecting almost every biological process.CBD is non-psychotoxic, non-hallucinogenic meaning it doesn’t give you euphoric feelings. Medterra has 0% THC. 

Your Endocannabinoid System

Our bodies contain an (Endocannabinoid System) ECS. The ECS includes multiple cannabinoid receptors “that are endogenous to the human brain.” Cannabinoid receptors play a critical role in how our body processes mood, memory, pain, and appetite.

What is so magical about CBD? 

It helps keep “healthy people healthy.” Cannabinoid simulates ECS (endocannabinoid system-a “central regulatory system” recently found in the body). Your ECS produces “homeostasis” in your body wherever it is needed — giving people relief for their ailments. Depending on the issue almost immediately reaction upon application of Cannabinoid.
It helps the body maintain internal homeostasis despite changes externally. There are over 100 derivatives of cannabinoid that specifically affects specific body organs. 

Plants are changing people’s lives

All I know that there are plant derivatives that are changing people’s lives. Healing their pains, relieving ailments both physically and mentally. Thousands of products and brands are growing daily. There are also different dosages and potency that people should be aware of.

CBD Quality

I always say do your research, check your information sources. Make sure you get Cannobboid from a reputable source. Without regulation, there are no guarantees you are buying what’s labeled on the bottle. Medterra is grown in the United States and is fully compliant under the Kentucky Department of Agricultural Industrial Hemp Pilot Program. Medterra is also contains 0% THC. Every bottle that leaves Medterra’s manufacturing is tested by an outside company that checks for consistency and quality.

Medterra CBD

Daily I have found relief from Medterra CBD tincture. They hooked me up with a variety of supplements to help me sleep with their CBD Melatonin and Cannaboid Energy. Using their products has helped with many ailments. It’s the new “cure-all” in my house. I am jumping on the Cannabboid train and recommending it as alternative holistic care.

Dosage

Medterra Cannaboid Oil Tincture is made with Medterra’s 99%+ Cannabboid and MCT oil in strengths of 500 mg, 1000 mg, and 3000 mg. The dosage depends on the person and the need, but there is no correct or specific dosage. It’s unique to the person. Medterra carries several different products that you can choose from:  tincture, Good Morning, Melatonin,  Topical Cooling Cream, and Monthly Wellness. 

What have you heard about Cannobboid Oil?

 

My blog is in partnership with Medterra.  I am being compensated for this post but that does not affect my opinion. I chose these brands because I believe in the product and what they stand for. My Full Disclosure Policy

 

Categories
Product Review Product Reviews Wellness

Water Quality Awareness Month

August is Water Quality Awareness Month

Not only is it my Birthday month. It’s Water Quality Awareness Month!  That’s right August is all about “me”-just kidding it’s all about the importance of water! Let’s be real! If you’re honoring your temple every month, you should be too.  If your water is a problem, my friends at ZeroWater make it easy to have high quality filtered, great-tasting water. ZeroWater gives me the confidence I need when I am looking for the best source of hydration, not only for myself but for my family.  Since I have been drinking ZeroWater, I have the confidence that we are drinking the purest tasting, and virtually free of all dissolved solids. We have always hydrated adequately with ZeroWater. I have actually become a water snob.

Hydration is essential to active people

I have mentioned the benefits of hydration several times on my blog. Whether its for muscle recovery, performance enhancement, weight loss, or just proper fuel.  Hydration is key to any active or non-active person. Because of the state of our environment, not all water is the best to fuel your body. We need to take into account what is in our water.

Not all water is made equal

So here’s the problem.  The United States is currently in a crisis when it comes to its water distribution.  Many states are relying on aging infrastructure. Daily there are reports of water contamination.  Water in many cities is showing higher than normal levels of lead, radium, PFOAS, and Teflon. It’s becoming more common than not, and the Flint Water Crisis in 2014 was just the beginning. There is so much more discovered and undiscovered in so many more states and cities.  The best way to avoid contamination is a better filtration system.

4 Reasons I am a Water Snob

There are four reasons why I have become Water Snob. It all started when I attended the Well Summit last year.  I thought drinking water was a good thing until I realized all of the Total dissolved Solids I was drinking and learned about the Quality of American Water.  After more research, I realized the water that my family was free but was not adequate to properly hydrate us for several reasons:

1. Water does have a flavor.

I remember a time when I hated water. It didn’t have a flavor. Here I am 4 years later, and I mostly drink water. I can tell you what comes from the tap, what is purified, and now that I have been drinking ZeroWater, even the purified water tastes different. That’s because unlike purified water.  ZeroWater eliminates virtually all of the total dissolved solids in your drinking water. Total dissolved solids are “inorganic and organic compounds like salts, minerals and heavy metals such as lead can hide in your water.

2. Water filters aren’t removing everything.

ZeroWater has a 5 stage filtration process that has been tested to remove 99% of TDS in your water. Compared to the Brita Standard 2 Stage filter that only removes 50% of the TDS in your tap water.  ZeroWater has NSF certifications to reduce Lead, Chromium (Hexavalent), Chlorine and Mercury. It also has third-party lab testing to reduce many other contaminants such as Radium, Chromium (trivalent), Fluoride, Arsenic and so much more! These third-party tests found that a standard Brita filter does NOT reduce nearly the same amount of percentage of these contaminants when compared to ZeroWater.

3. My Tap Water is Contaminated

ZeroWater has a “How Clean is your water” application on their site to find out your TDS amounts in your Tap Water.  When I entered my zip code in the simple app, it gave me a score of 156. It’s on the higher side of the spectrum but falls into the typical contaminant level of USA water.  Areas like Maine, South Carolina, and Wyoming have very low impurities levels, and cities like Texas, Nevada, Arizona, North Dakota, and California have the highest TDS levels in the nation.  If you live in these states you probably already filter but know that your water filtration needs to be replaced more frequently than others.

4. I have so many options to filter my water.

I think the biggest reason I am a water snob is that ZeroWater has so many options to filter my water. There is no reason I should be drinking anything but water with 000 TDS.  They have a variety from Tumbler on the go to 6,7,8,9,10,11,12,20,23 and even up to 40-gallon filtration dispensers. They also have a Bottle water distribution. There is absolutely no reason why my water can’t be filtered for the entire family.

Using ZeroWater has also saved me from buying bottled water, which although I know it is terrible of the environment. Was a regular purchase out of convenience.  My Brita filtered way too slow and was just an annoyance. I never trusted the one on the tap either. I have been using ZeroWater for over three months, and it has been an easy solution to bottled water. We have the 20 cup container, and it keeps my family hydrated. We are active and continuously filling up water bottles, cooking, and even use it for our ice.

So, if you see me walking around with my ZeroWater tumbler, sorry, once you go Zero, you can’t go back! I would definitely take a look at the water filtration system you are using for your family.

 

Does your family use Water Filtration? Have you tested the TDS in your drinking water?

My blog is in partnership with ZeroWater.  I am being compensated for this post but that does not affect my opinion. I chose these brands because I believe in the product and what they stand for. My Full Disclosure Policy