HEALTHILLIE'S 2023 MOCKTAIL GUIDE

Blogs – by Alex Aviza

10 Ways to Increase Dopamine Levels Naturally

Do you feel like you are in a funk? Even wellness-conscious people find ourselves in a rut at times. Despite our dedication to healthy habits, busy schedules, stress, and unexpected events can disrupt our typical routines.  If you are feeling a lack of motivation, decreased concentration, tiredness, or moodiness, you may be experiencing low levels of dopamine.  What Is Dopamine?  Dopamine is often referred to as the "feel-good" neurotransmitter or the “happy hormone.” It is a chemical messenger in your brain that gives you feelings of motivation and satisfaction. Dopamine plays a very important role in regulating mood as well. If you are feeling no drive to accomplish tasks, moody, generally “off,” there are several natural ways to boost this neurotransmitter and promote your well-being and happiness.  This blog post explores effective methods to naturally increase your dopamine levels and boost your mood.  Ways to Increase Dopamine Levels Holistically  In order to increase your “happy hormone” naturally, it is important to take care of the the body and the mind. 1. Move Your Body Exercise is one of the most quickest and most effective ways to boost your dopamine levels naturally. Physical activity triggers dopamine to be released in the brain, leading to feelings of happiness and satisfaction. Engaging in regular exercise, ideally for at least 30 minutes, will stimulate dopamine release.  If you are looking to amplify your energy and focus while working out, a pre-workout supplement may be the boost you need. We love the Ora Organic Preworkout because it does not contain any artificial flavors, nor does it give you jitters like other pre-workout powders might.  2. Eat Dopamine-Boosting Foods We always promote a nourishing, balanced diet. There are certain foods that help to increase dopamine levels. Try including whole foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants into your diet, like a variety of fruits and leafy greens. Also, incorporating foods rich in tyrosine, an amino acid precursor to dopamine, into your diet can help boost you mood and energy. Foods that have tyrosine include eggs, dairy products, nuts, seeds, and lean meats.  3. Set and Achieve Goals Dopamine is released in the brain when you feel a sense of accomplishment. Achieving your goals, whether big or small, can boost dopamine levels by providing a sense of attainment and reward. Even checking items off a list is an effective way to feel accomplished, therefore triggering dopamine levels. Set realistic goals for yourself and take small steps each day to work towards achieving them.  4. Practice Mindfulness Meditation Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or breathing exercises, can increase dopamine levels by reducing stress and promoting relaxation. If your mind is racing despite trying to mediate, it could be due to excess stress. Too much stress can negatively impact your dopamine levels and overall mental health. Deep breathing and muscle relaxation can help calm the mind and support healthy dopamine regulation. Need some help de-stressing? We carry Look Organics Calm, a supplement that promotes relaxation and works to improve energy production, mood, and sleep. 5. Prioritize Quality Sleep Do you wake up still feeling tired? Adequate sleep is essential for optimal brain function, including dopamine production and regulation. Establish a regular sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine to improve sleep quality. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep a night to support healthy dopamine levels. If you are looking for supplements to help with a good sleep routine, some of our favorites include Juna Nightcap Sleep Gummies, Cymbiotika Sleep, and Ora Organic You're A Knock Out Natural Sleep Aid Supplement. All our options have clean ingredients and work with your body’s natural circadian rhythm to help you have a better night of rest.  6. Engage in Creative Activities Make time for creative hobbies in your life. Engaging in creative activities, such as drawing, writing, or playing music, can stimulate dopamine production. When you immerse yourself in creative tasks, your brain enters a flow state where you are fully engaged in the task at hand. The concentration that happens for a creative task boosts dopamine levels because it contributes to a sense of accomplishment. 7. Practice Gratitude and Positivity  The power of gratitude can go a long way. Cultivating an attitude of gratitude can increase dopamine levels naturally by increasing your general happiness. If you focus on the positive aspects of your life, your brain considers them to be confirmations or achievements, therefore triggering dopamine. Take time each day to reflect on the things you are grateful for, whether it is your health, relationships, or simple pleasures in life.  8. Get Regular Sunlight Exposure Spending time outside has many health benefits. Importantly, sunlight exposure can increase dopamine levels in the brain by triggering the release of vitamin D and serotonin, which are closely linked to dopamine production. Take advantage of opportunities to go outside and connect with nature by going for walks, hiking, or simply getting outside and enjoying the sunshine.  We have discussed the importance of sunscreen on our blog as well. If you are going to spend excessive time in the sun, remember to apply a low-tox sunscreen like our Kinfield Cloud Cover SPF 35. 9. Socialize and Connect Regular social interaction and meaningful connections with others are essential for promoting dopamine release. We are social creatures by nature. Prioritizing spending time with friends, family, and people you are close to fosters a sense of connection. Building a social support network can enhance dopamine levels by contributing to a feeling of belonging and fulfillment. 10. Practice Dopamine Fasting Dopamine fasting involves taking a break from certain activities that typically stimulate dopamine.  Scrolling on social media, playing video games, and excessive screen time may all release dopamine in the brain, but these activities are not necessarily good for your health. By taking a break from these activities, and temporarily reducing sensory input, you can reset your dopamine receptors and enhance their sensitivity to natural rewards. Increasing dopamine levels naturally is important for overall wellness and happiness. By incorporating holistic strategies into your daily routine, you can support healthy dopamine production and regulation holistically, in a variety of different ways. Remember to prioritize self-care, set realistic goals, and celebrate your successes along the way.

Blogs – by Alex Aviza

A Holistic Approach to Seasonal Allergy Relief

The birds are chirping, the flowers are blooming, and the weather is getting warmer. As spring approaches, so do the dreaded seasonal allergies. Unfortunately for many, this time of year leads to congestion, sneezing, and itching, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks or enjoy the outdoors.  In this blog post, we will explore holistic tips for finding relief from seasonal allergies. A holistic approach to managing seasonal allergies addresses both the symptoms and possible underlying causes. By opting for low-tox alternatives to conventional allergy medication or incorporating different holistic remedies into your allergy treatment, you can strengthen your immune system and reduce the severity of your seasonal allergies. Five Tips for Seasonal Allergy Relief Naturally From a holistic perspective, seasonal allergies can be attributed to an imbalance in the body’s immune response triggered by different environmental factors, such as pollen. In addition, dietary choices, lifestyle habits, and stress levels can play a role in exacerbating allergic reactions. Holistic remedies or treatments for seasonal allergies can address the root cause of allergies, rather than just alleviating symptoms.  We have gathered five tips to help you find seasonal allergy relief.  1. Balance Your Nutrition One of the most powerful ways to combat seasonal allergies is through your diet. Certain foods have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, which can help reduce allergy symptoms and strengthen your body's defenses against allergens. Incorporating these foods into your meals can make a significant difference in how you feel during allergy season. Local Honey: Consuming raw, local honey is a popular natural remedy for seasonal allergies. The theory behind this remedy is that by ingesting small amounts of pollen from your local environment, you may desensitize your immune system to allergens over time.  Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in foods like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts, omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation in the body, including inflammation caused by allergies. Consider adding these foods to your diet or taking a high-quality omega-3 supplement during allergy season. Quercetin-Rich Foods: Quercetin is a natural compound found in foods like onions, apples, and berries that has been shown to have antihistamine and anti-inflammatory effects. Incorporating quercetin-rich foods into your diet can help stabilize mast cells and reduce the release of histamines, alleviating allergy symptoms such as sneezing and itching. 2. Consider Natural Supplements Looking to swap a conventional allergy medication for a low-tox option? Unlike conventional allergy medicines that may have adverse side effects, natural supplements aim to strengthen the immune system and promote overall well-being. Below are some Live Healthillie-approved supplements to help you feel your best during allergy season. Cymbiotika Allergy Defense: Formulated specifically to boost immune function and promote the body’s response to allergens, pollen, mold and parasites, this product is ideal for combating seasonal allergies. Quercetin is a key ingredient in this product and, as mentioned above, is helpful in reducing inflammation. Wooden Spoon Herbs Aller-Ease: This tonic contains seasonally-supportive herbs to promote a balanced immune system, making it a great supplement for allergy season. It comes in liquid form, making it easy to digest.  Cymbiotika Glutathione: Glutathione is an antioxidant naturally produced in your liver that protects the body against free radicals and maintains cellular health. Among other benefits, it also helps mitigate symptoms of environmental allergies. This product comes in individual pouches, making it ideal for when you are on-the-go. 3. Optimize Your Indoor Environment While you may not be able to control the pollen levels outside, you can create a clean and allergen-free environment indoors to significantly reduce the severity of your allergy symptoms. Invest in an Air Purifier: A high-quality air purifier can help remove allergens from the air inside your home. Not only does this provide relief from indoor allergy triggers, but also protects against any outdoor allergens, such as pollen, that you may bring inside. Place the purifier in frequently used rooms to alleviate your home from allergy irritants. Keep Your Home Clean: Regularly dusting, vacuuming, and washing bedding can help reduce allergens. Take a shower in the evening so that you are not bringing pollen or other allergy irritants into your bed with you. 4. Alleviate Stressors  Stress is a trigger for allergy symptoms as it can weaken the immune system and exacerbate inflammation in the body. By incorporating wellness practices into your daily routine, you can reduce stress levels and improve your body's ability to cope with allergens naturally. Engage in Meditation: For centuries, the practice of meditation has been used to reduce stress. Meditation can help calm the mind and promote relaxation, making it a valuable tool for managing stress levels. In turn, the reduced stress can reduce inflammation in the body.  Drink an Adrenal Cocktail: If you are experiencing a lot of stress, consider replenishing your adrenal levels. Combat fatigue from imbalance adrenal glands with Live Healthillie Minerals & Chill, a product made with powerful, yet simple, ingredients to boost energy levels if you are experiencing prologued stress.  5. Stay Hydrated This tip seems simple, but is so crucial. Staying hydrated throughout the day can help thin mucus secretions and keep your nasal passages moist, making it easier to expel allergens. Drink Warm Water: Warm water can have a soothing effect on your body. In particular, drinking warm water can soothe throat irritation that occurs from seasonal allergies. Try Herbal Teas: In addition to drinking water, herbal teas can soothe irritated throats and relieve congestion. Nettle lead tea in particular have been found to alleviate allergy symptoms. Nettle leaf is a natural antihistamine that can help reduce sneezing and itching. Seasonal allergies can be frustrating, but they do not have to derail your plans. By embracing a holistic approach to allergy relief, you can work with your body to address the root causes of your symptoms and support your immune system.  Remember to listen to your body and consult with a health practitioner if you have concerns about underlying health conditions. With dedication and patience, you can navigate this upcoming allergy season with more ease.

Blogs – by Alex Aviza

How Often Should I Reapply Sunscreen?

Summer is right around the corner. As the days grow longer and you spend more time outside, there is one essential product you should consider using: sunscreen.  Sunscreen can be a vital tool in protecting our skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, its effectiveness diminishes over time, necessitating regular reapplication for optimal protection. And while protection from harmful UV rays is a priority, it is equally essential to choose sunscreens with low toxic ingredients.  In this blog post, we explore tips to safeguard your skin effectively and delve into low toxic, yet effective sunscreens. Understanding Sun Exposure Before diving into the need for sunscreen reapplication, it is important to understand the dynamics of sun exposure and its effects on the skin. Sunlight is a vital source of vitamin D, which is critical for our bone health and immune function. However, prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin diseases.  Sunscreen serves as a protective barrier, shielding the skin from these harmful UV rays. But its effectiveness can vary based on how much you are swimming, sweating, or even the tone of your skin. Thus, regular reapplication is crucial to maintain adequate protection throughout the day.  Sunscreen Ingredient Awareness  Not all sunscreen is formulated equally. In recent years, sunscreen ingredients have sparked controversy over their potential health impacts, with several main stream brands recalling their products. Concerns have been raised about certain ingredients found in these sunscreens potentially disrupting hormone function, causing skin irritation or allergic reactions, or being linked with diseases such as cancer.  Avoiding prolonged sun exposure is an option to reduce your risk of harmful effects of the sun. But if you do want to use sunscreen, just without the harmful ingredients, Live Healthillie has you covered. We have a collection of the best sunscreens with simple, effective ingredients. Our mineral sunscreens are formulated with zinc oxide, which sits on the surface of the skin, deflecting the rays of the sun and providing protection against any potential sun damage. Practical Tips for Sunscreen Reapplication If you choose to wear sunscreen, it is necessary to understand how frequently to reapply the product in order for it to be effective. The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of a sunscreen indicates the level of protection against UV rays. It is a common misconception that the higher the SPF, the less frequently you should reapply the product. Reapplication frequency depends on a variety of factors including your sun exposure and activity. Typically, you should reapply your sunscreen approximately every two hours if you are in the sun for long periods of time.  To ensure effective sunscreen protection, we have outlined some practical tips for preventing sun damage and sunscreen reapplication: 1. Set Reminders If you are going to spend a long time outside in direct sunlight, use alarms or reminders to prompt sunscreen reapplication every two hours. It can be easy to forget about sunscreen application when you are out and about, but setting reminders will keep you on track.  2. Carry Sunscreen with You Keep a sunscreen bottle in your bag or car, so that you are always prepared to reapply when needed. And do not forget to protect your lips! The Kinfield Liplock SPF 15 Balm is a great product to use SPF for on-the-go.  3. Seek Shade If you are not using sunscreen or if you forget to reapply it, be mindful of your sun exposure. Whenever possible, seek shade during peak sun hours to minimize UV exposure. 4. Cover Up In addition to using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, such as hats and sunglasses can further shield your skin from UV radiation.  5. Soothe Burnt Skin  Spent too much time in the sun? Make sure to hydrate your skin afterwards. We carry the TANIT After Sun, which is a cooling mist that you can use after excessive sun exposure if your skin is feeling dry and irritated. It contains a refreshing combination of aloe, witch hazel, mint, and lavender to soothe and reset dried-out or sunburnt skin. Factors Affecting Sunscreen Effectiveness There are several factors that can affect the effectiveness of sunscreen and determine the need for reapplication. Sunscreen Type: Different sunscreen formulations, such as lotions, sprays, and sticks, may have varying levels of durability. While sunscreen type is a personal preference, often creams and balms are mineral sunscreens, making them the better low tox option. If you are looking for a spray option, Beauty By Earth Sunscreen Spray is a great choice. This mineral spray sunscreen also goes on clear, making it easy to apply. Activities: Activities like sweating, swimming, and towel-drying can diminish sunscreen effectiveness, requiring more frequent reapplication. If you are partaking in activities that may result in the sunscreen wearing off quickly, make sure to remember to reapply more frequently.  Environmental Conditions: You may find yourself sweating off your sunscreen due to humidity and temperature. Especially in warmer climates and in the summer months, do not forget to reapply sunscreen.  Skin Type: Individuals with fair skin or a history of sunburn may require more frequent sunscreen application for effective protection. Be in tune with what your skin needs.  Healthillie Approved Sunscreens At Live Healthillie, we carry a selection of clean sunscreen and after-suncare products without harmful ingredients. Below we have highlighted a few of our favorites: Our TANIT Moisturizing Mineral Sunscreen is a popular choice for clean sunscreen. This formula is very lightweight and water-resistant, making it perfect for outdoor activities. While some mineral sunscreens leave a noticeable whitecast, this product blends easily into the skin. If you are looking to emphasize your skin-kissed skin, Kinfield Sunglow SPF 35 - Luminizing Sunscreen Lotion can help give you a glow. This sunscreen is formulated with a unique shimmering hue, leaving a radiant finish on the skin.  The Kinfield Cloud Cover SPF 35 is a great everyday sunscreen option. The formula is extremely blendable, making it perfect for quick application or for being a base under your makeup.  If you are looking for a mineral-based sunscreen that applies super easily, the Beauty By Earth Sunscreen Spray SPF 30 is for you. The spray bottle makes the zinc oxide transparent when it goes on the skin, making it suitable for any skin type.  The Earth Harbor Eclipse Sheer Mineral Sunscreen is a customer favorite because of its lightweight and blendable formula, which goes on smoothly underneath everyday makeup. This product comes in a 1 fluid ounce bottle, making it a perfect travel sunscreen option. But do not be fooled by the size of the bottle – a little sunscreen goes a long way.  These are just some of our favorites. We have many more amazing, low toxic sunscreens over at LiveHealthillie. Sunscreen reapplication is important for maintaining effective protection against UV radiation and reducing the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin diseases. If you are considering using sunscreen, be conscious of the ingredients to make sure that they are low toxic. Choosing sunscreens that are free of benzene and other potentially harmful chemicals not only safeguards your skin, but also protects your overall well-being. By prioritizing sunscreens with safer ingredients like zinc oxide, you can enjoy the sun responsibly, ensuring your skin stays healthy and vibrant all summer long. 

Blogs – by Iliriana Zeneli

All About The Adrenal Mocktail

In honor of my first ever product: Minerals and Chill, I wanted to take some time to make a master FAQ since adrenal mocktails are very popular in niche wellness groups but not so much to the public!  What are the adrenal glands & what is their function?  They are small organs that sit on top of each kidney and are responsible for making different hormones like cortisol, aldosterone, adrenaline and noradrenaline. They play an important role with how our bodies react to stress, manage blood sugar, balance electrolytes and even blood pressure!  The adrenal glands are directed by the hypothalamus, a small part of the brain that controls hormones. The glands work in tandem with other endocrine system elements like the kidneys, pituitary gland and sympathetic nervous system to help the body bounce back from stressors, fight off foreign invaders, metabolize food for energy, and reproduce, according to the Cleveland Clinic. So what is Adrenal Fatigue or HPA Axis Dysfunction? Since the adrenal glands help manage our stress response and "fight or flight" - it can become very taxing on the adrenals when we are chronically stressed. If you experience chronic stress for an extended period of time – your body may start to struggle to make the hormones it needs to keep that stress under control. This process also takes up a lot of minerals which can cause depletion. Some common symptoms can look like:  Chronic Fatigue Brain fog Headaches Constant need for caffeine Body aches Trouble Sleeping/ "Wired & Tired" Mood Swings/Irritability Anxiety Cravings for very sweet or very salty foods Light headedness Low blood pressure Digestive issues/ Sluggish Digestion Imbalanced Cortisol Waking Up Exhausted What is the Adrenal Mocktail?  It contains 3 main components that help replenish minerals/nutrients depleted by stress: Vitamin C: During periods of stress, the body's demand for vitamin C may increase. Vitamin C is involved in the production of adrenal hormones, including cortisol, and it may help modulate the body's stress response. Additionally, vitamin C supports the immune system and overall well-being Sodium: In the context of adrenal health, sodium is included in adrenal cocktails to help support electrolyte balance. During periods of stress, there may be changes in fluid balance and electrolyte levels, and adequate sodium intake is important for maintaining hydration and overall physiological function. Potassium: Adequate potassium intake is important for overall health and it may play a role in supporting adrenal function indirectly by helping maintain electrolyte balance. Imbalances in sodium and potassium levels can affect blood pressure and cellular function. You can make this by combining orange juice (or another high vitamin C juice), coconut water or cream of tartar for potassium & sea salt OR you can now use a powdered supplement like Minerals & Chill that's made with real food vitamin c, potassium without the coconut and unrefined sea salt along with magnesium malate which helps with mood and digestion.  Some frequently asked questions about Minerals & Chill: Does it replace an electrolyte? Technically Minerals & Chill contains electrolytes. Electrolytes are considered "macro minerals" which are magnesium, sodium, potassium etc. They are depleted during exercise but also times of stress (physical, emotional, mental) so they play an important role for overall health. The Vitamin C is what really makes this different from a typical electrolyte supplement and more optimal for stress and adrenal support. You can swap out your electrolyte for this or incorporate both but always check with your practitioner when starting new supplements.    Is it pregnancy & breastfeeding safe? Typically yes - always check with your provider before starting new supplements!  Why is the drink pink? Our whole food vitamin C comes from acerola cherries which come in 2 colors, red and yellow. The ones we use are red so it appears pink in our drink. Does it contain caffeine? No. It is completely caffeine free.  When is the best time to take this?  Some people may experience better energy and focus after taking Minerals and Chill while others may not with this being said the recommended way to take it is before 3pm. I recommend testing it out and seeing how you feel!  Is there any sugar? No it is sweetened with monk fruit.    I will be updating this routinely for more questions and answers. 

Blogs – by Iliriana Zeneli

Colostrum vs Collagen

With so many new trends and supplements coming out, many sounding like they give similar or even exact results, it's important to know the difference between them!  Colostrum and Collagen have both had their moments in the wellness industry but only recently has colostrum become a popular topic and now many are comparing it to collagen. So which is worth it? Do you need both? Or are both a scam? Let's find out. Colostrum is milk that all women make post birth (and sometimes a little before) and it's known as 'liquid gold'. Mammals feed this colostrum to their newborns in order to build their immune system because it is filled with so many nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Because of the essence of my job, I try MANY, if not all trendy supplements on the market to see if they are truly worth the hype. Colostrum has been one of those supplements I thought would be a gimmick but I actually noticed a major improvement in my overall immune and gut health.  Some interesting components of colostrum: - it contains secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA),the most abundant antibody at mucosal surfaces in the respiratory and GI tract - antiviral and antibacterial - intercepts allergens and toxins - has been found to inhibit influenza and rotaviruses, and neutralize toxins from bacteria like C. difficile and E. Coli - plays an important role in maintaining homeostasis of the helpful gut bacteria (microbiome). - contains IgG which can recognize and bind to specific, harmful particles like viruses and bacteria to block them from crossing the barrier.  - contains growth factors like Colostral IGF-1 which increases lean muscle tissue and when used during exercise, switches cellular fuel from sugar to fat, increasing the body’s fat burning capacity. And that just scratches the surface. This really is an incredible superfood.  Now to chat a bit about collagen! Now there is a debate on what the best way to get collagen in the most effective way and that is taking collagen OR taking vitamin C which is a precursor to creating collagen in the body. (I personally take both since vitamin c is a powerhouse as is but I can do a separate blog on that)  There are two types of collagen people take: Marine and Bovine. I personally love marine collagen because it is lower in histamine but either are fine. Collagen is a type of protein that our body naturally makes less of as we age. There are over 20 types of collagen but 90% of our body is Type 1 collagen!  The common benefits of supplementing collagen are: - improved skin hydration, elasticity and wrinkles - reduced symptoms related to osteoarthritis, including stiffness - increase in bone density - provides moisture to the skin and scalp, strengthens the hair follicle, accelerates healing, and nourishes the hair bulb - may reduce hair loss or thinning and may prevent graying, often related to the antioxidant benefits - improve the overall appearance of the hair Now you might be thinking, why are people comparing the two when the benefits seem so different? It is because 1. marketing and 2. many people who are taking colostrum are also reporting an improvement in their hair and skin health.  What some people may not realize is poor gut health has been linked to many issues including poor hair, skin and nail health. So when your gut is struggling due to artificial additives, stress or antibiotics use etc, this can result in leaky gut and the inability to properly absorb nutrients. When we cant properly absorb nutrients, our hair, skin and nails will struggle because they are usually the last on the totem pole to receive nutrients in our bodies.  Taking colostrum which has been shown to improve gut health - which can improve immune health - can also inadvertently result in also better hair, skin and nail health. I personally take both a collagen supplement and colostrum to get the benefits of both.  I love our Cowboy Colostrum brand that comes in unflavored and vanilla.  I personally take our Agent Nateur Collagen because it also has pearl powder:  Pearl powder is the richest source of calcium on the planet. When ingested, this oceanic adaptogen stimulates the appearance of collagen production and regeneration for youthful, clear skin and healthy hair and nails. Its high magnesium content elevates the appearance of GABA levels to lessen the look of oxidative stress that leads to premature aging and boosts the mood. Check out the site to see what what works for you! 

Blogs – by Alex Aviza

Embracing the Power of a Morning Skincare Routine

Mornings can often feel like a race against the clock. We find ourselves trying to prepare for the day – coordinating upcoming tasks, making breakfast, meeting deadlines, and scrambling to check things off our to-do lists. In addition, our cortisol, also known as our body’s stress hormone, is typically higher in the mornings. This hormone can make morning tasks feel more urgent or stressful.  You know that at Live Healthillie, we are all about balance, which can be found in our everyday habits and routines. If your mornings feel chaotic at times, then you have the opportunity to create a routine that benefits you. Part of that routine may include tending to your skincare. Creating a morning skincare routine is an excellent way to take a moment for yourself in the early hours of the day, and set the tone for what is ahead. A morning skincare routine is not just about going through the motions — it is about being mindful and starting your day by focusing on your well-being. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of a morning skincare routine and the role that choosing the right products plays in enhancing its effectiveness to create the best morning skincare routine for you. The Importance of Morning Skincare  Your morning routine can set the stage for the rest of your day. A structured morning routine provides a sense of stability and peace, reducing the sense of stress that your body may feel. By establishing consistent rituals, you create a sense of rhythm and familiarity throughout your morning that can reduce stress in the body.  A morning skincare routine allows you to be present and spend time to focus on yourself before taking on the rest of your day. Your morning skincare routine is the first step in protecting your skin from external environmental stressors, hydrating it after a night's rest, and preparing it for whatever lies ahead. A well-established morning skincare routine can help you start the day feeling refreshed and confident. Identifying Low-Toxic Skincare Products If you are reading this, you are probably interested in low-toxic alternatives to some of your favorite skincare products. It is no secret that throughout the skincare industry, you will find products containing potentially harmful chemicals such as parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances. These ingredients not only irritate the skin, but also potentially disrupt the body’s natural hormone function and contribute to long-term health issues.  Choosing low-toxic products involves carefully reading labels and being mindful of the active ingredients they contain. Look for products that prioritize simple ingredients, free from harsh chemicals and unnecessary additives.  Essential Steps in a Morning Skincare Routine If you would like to cultivate a morning skincare routine with low toxic products, we have created a simple step-by-step routine below:  1. Cleanse Your Face Begin your morning skincare routine by cleansing your face with a gentle, low-toxic cleanser. Washing your face in the morning helps remove impurities that have accumulated overnight, leaving your skin feeling clean and refreshed. Cleansing your face also helps prepare your skin for the application of other skincare products or makeup. Opt for cleansers with gentle formulations and simple ingredients so as to not strip the skin of its natural oils. We love using our Agent Nateur Lactic Acid Skin Brightening Cleanser in the morning because the brightening properties in this daily cleanser may promote a radiant complexion. This product is infused with high quality, organic ingredients that brighten the appearance of skin, refine texture, and smooth signs of aging, making it a great option for a morning cleanser. 2. Use Face Toner After cleansing, apply a toner to help balance the skin's pH levels and minimize the look of pores. Toners can also have a soothing effect on the skin, which makes this product a good addition to your morning skincare routine if you wake up with puffy or irritated skin. The Jack Henry Face Toner, formulated with organic witch hazel as a key ingredient, is a solid option to brighten and balance your skin. This product is designed to help reduce inflammation and ease irritation. More importantly, it is an alcohol-free face toner, meaning it will not dry out your skin.  3. Incorporate Serums  Target specific skincare concerns, such as dehydration or dullness, by using a serum in the morning. Serums can deliver potent active ingredients to your skin and provide added hydration. The key to using a serum in the morning is to make sure it is lightweight and absorbs into the skin effectively so that you can go about your day or apply makeup on top of it. Our Luna Nectar Neptune Hydrate and Blur Serum is a good low tox choice for a morning serum. The hyaluronic acid creates a protective barrier and smoothing effect on the skin. This ingredient also helps plump and hydrate your skin, which can offset any skin dehydration that naturally occurred overnight.  4. Moisturize Your Skin Hydration is key to maintaining healthy, glowy skin. For your morning skincare routine, select a lightweight face lotion that replenishes moisture levels without causing the skin to look or feel greasy. A lightweight formula also allows for smoother application of makeup.  If you are looking for an effective morning moisturizer with clean ingredients, the UpCircle Face Moisturizer is a favorite. Formulated with Vitamin E, this face moisturizer easily absorbs into the skin, leaving your face feeling nourished and brightened.  5. Protect From the Sun Sun exposure first thing in the morning can be beneficial to our circadian rhythm. However, if you are looking to protect your skin against the sun’s UV rays throughout the day, then apply sunscreen in the morning. For a cleaner option, choose a mineral-based sunscreen, like the Kinfield Cloud Cover which contains 100% mineral non-nano zinc. This product offers effective protection without the use of potentially harmful chemicals. It also does not leave a white cast on the skin, making it ideal for morning application.  Benefits of a Low-Toxic Morning Skincare Routine Embracing a morning skincare routine centered around low-toxic products offers numerous benefits for both your skin and overall well-being, including contributing to a healthier lifestyle. A morning skincare routine is more than just a series of tasks — it can be a way to slow down and promote self-care at the start of your day. You know your skin best, so you may not need every step we listed in your routine. By embracing mindfulness and choosing the right skincare products, you can create a morning routine that starts your day off with the right tone.

Blogs – by Alex Aviza

How To Treat Dry Hair Naturally

Dry hair, damaged hair can be frustrating to deal with. However, with some simple product swaps and the right routine, you can restore moisture and vitality to your hair.  If you are reading this blog post, you probably already have an interest in natural or holistic alternatives to hair products. Choosing natural hair products may be daunting; it can be difficult to know whether the ingredients are low toxic or if they will work well with your hair type. Luckily, at Live Healthillie, we carry many different hair care products with clean ingredients to choose from that actually work for a variety of hair needs. In this post, we will explore the causes of dry hair, as well as potential treatments to help you achieve healthy, luscious locks naturally.  Common Causes of Dry Hair Dry hair can stem from various factors, including environmental elements, lifestyle choices, and hair care practices. Poor nutrition can contribute to dry hair by depriving the hair follicles of essential nutrients and hydration. External factors such as overwashing, excessive heat usage, or chemical treatments may strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness, breakage, and frizz.  Using hair products with clean, low tox ingredients can help you maintain your hair health and prevent future dryness. Why Choose Low Tox Hair Ingredients? Hair care can be very personal, so why opt for natural, low tox products? Hair products with clean ingredients minimize your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals that may have adverse effects on your health. High quality, clean ingredients in hair products are often derived from natural sources and are more gentle on your hair and scalp, reducing the risk of irritation, allergic reactions, or even headaches.  Remember to look at the ingredient labels of your products. Many traditional shampoos and conditioners contain endocrine disrupting ingredients such as phthalates, parabens, and certain fragrances which can interfere with your body’s hormonal system and regulation. By choosing low tox hair products, you can minimize your exposure to certain chemicals and toxins.  Tips to Fix Dry Hair Naturally  It is no secret that having healthy hair is not just about using the right products; having healthy hair requires a balanced approach to hair care that considers both internal and external factors. From nourishing your body to using natural ingredients, keep reading below to find out how you can treat and prevent dry hair naturally. 1. Hydrate From Within The health of your hair is often a reflection of your overall well being. Eating a balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, is crucial for promoting hair growth and strength. Include real, whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids in your diet to provide your hair follicles with the nutrients they need to thrive. Proper hydration and balanced nutrition is the ultimate natural dry hair remedy. Just as your body needs water to stay hydrated, your hair also requires moisture to remain soft and healthy.  If you are looking to supplement your diet, we love our Cowboy Colostrum which has simple, but powerful ingredients. This product is rich in bioactive ingredients like immunoglobulins and natural growth hormones for hair health (and also support immunity, gut health, and skin!).  2. Maintain a Gentle Shampooing Routine Harsh shampoos and overwashing can strip your hair over time, leading to dryness and damage. The best shampoo for dry hair is one that is moisturizing and free of harsh chemicals. Avoid shampoos that have silicones, as this ingredient can seal moisture out of the hair shaft, ultimately leading to dryness. Depending on your hair type, you may want to try limiting shampooing to no more than a couple times per week, as excessive washing can further dry out your hair.  Our silicone-free Innersense Hydrating Cream Hairbath is great for restoring the hair follicle, leaving hair bouncy and healthy. Formulated with raw shea butter and avocado, sage, monoi and tamanu oils, this shampoo is the perfect gentle, yet effective clean hair hydration solution.  3. Prime Your Hair Using a heat protectant spray forms a barrier between your hair and heat styling tools such as flat irons, curling wands, and blow dryers. This barrier helps minimize the damage caused by the heat, which can otherwise lead to hair dryness or split ends.  Consider taking a break from heat styling tools if you can. Otherwise, the Innersense Hair Love Prep Spray is a great option for a hair protection spray with high quality, clean ingredients. Rich in Vitamin B and rice protein, this spay restores strength and shine while protecting your hair during styling. 4. Stimulate Your Scalp  Scalp stimulation, such as gentle massaging or brushing, can offer many benefits to both your scalp and hair health. Using a tool like the Kitsch Shampoo Brush and Scalp Exfoliator, may improve circulation and increase blood flow to your hair follicles, encouraging healthy hair growth. In addition, stimulating your scalp reduces product build up, allowing hydrating products to actually penetrate your hair. If you are looking to take your hair hydration to the next level, consider using a hair oil for dry hair like the one from Bur Bur. Hair oiling is a great step to incorporate into your low tox hair care routine before massaging your scalp. Leave the hair oil on for the recommended time, allowing your hair to absorb all the nourishing benefits. This weekly treatment visibly strengthens hair, adds shine, and supports healthy hair growth.  5. Switch Your Shower Head    If you are still experiencing hair dryness despite eating well and using the right products, you may want to upgrade your shower head. Chlorine, heavy metals, and other water contaminants may be the culprits of your brittle hair. Filtered shower heads remove these impurities, leaving you with clean, healthy hair. As a bonus, a filtered shower head may also help reduce irritation on your skin and scalp.  Remember, just because dry hair is “common,” does not necessarily mean that it is “normal.” Reflect on your daily habits and routines to figure out what may be at the root cause of your hair dryness. To prevent dry hair naturally, it is helpful to maintain a balanced diet and use hair products with clean, low tox ingredients. For more serious hair-related concerns, work with your dermatologist or healthcare professional. 

Blogs – by Alex Aviza

Clean Travel: The Low-Toxic Packing List for Your Upcoming Trip

Spring break and summer vacation are on the horizon. As you prepare for any upcoming trips, one of the most important tasks is deciding which products to bring along on your adventures. Packing the right low-toxic products can help streamline your travel experience and ensure you have everything you need while you are on-the-go. We put together a list of a few of our favorite low-toxic travel essential products to bring with you on your next trip. Whether you are jet-setting across the country or embarking on a weekend getaway, packing low-toxic essentials with clean ingredients will have you feeling your best while traveling.  Why Choose Low-Toxic Products for Travel? Traditional products often contain harmful chemicals, endocrine-disrupting ingredients (chemicals that may block, mimic, or interfere with the body's hormones) that can compromise your health. By choosing low-toxic alternatives, such as those found on our website, you reduce your amount of exposure to harmful substances and minimize your risk of possible such as skin irritation or potential long-term illnesses. As a bonus, many low-toxic products are biodegradable, cruelty-free, and ethically sourced. Essential Low-Toxic Packing List  On the hunt for low-toxic products for travel? We have compiled a list of some of our favorite low-toxic travel products to make the process easier for you.  1. Sunscreen Even if you are not traveling somewhere tropical on your vacation, it is a good idea to pack sunscreen. Protecting your skin from harmful ultra-violet (UV) rays is essential, especially when spending time outside. While being outside in the sun does have health benefits, such as a valuable dose of Vitamin D, excessive sun exposure can be harmful. The most common concerns about skin damage include sunburn, signs of premature aging, and skin cancer. Applying sunscreen can help mitigate the negative effects of the sun on the skin. However, many conventional sunscreens on the market often contain endocrine-disrupting ingredients. If you are looking for a non-toxic sunscreen option, it is important to choose a mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the main active ingredients. Mineral sunscreens do not absorb into your skin like conventional sunscreens do. Rather, the ingredients sit on top of your skin, acting as a shield against the sun. Formulated with 100% mineral non-nano zinc, our Kinfield Cloud Cover is a great low-toxic sunscreen option for travel. Its water-resistant, lightweight formula applies easily, does not leave a whitecast, and is reef safe.  You know your skin the best. If you feel like your skin is sensitive to prolonged sun exposure, stay mindful of your time outside and take breaks by moving to the share or going inside.  2. Natural Insect Repellent Pesky insects can put a damper on outdoor excursions. Instead of using insect repellents with harsh ingredients, there are natural, low-toxic bug repellants to choose from. If you are trying to use low-toxic products, look for ingredients that list essential oils like citronella, lemongrass, and lavender. In particular, citronella is a potent insect repellent, warding off all kinds of bugs, especially mosquitoes. We love using our Kinfield Golden Hour Wipes to keep bugs at bay. Their clean formula repels mosquitos with a unique strain of Indonesian citronella. These bio-degradable wipes effectively ward off bugs without exposing you to harmful toxins, making them ideal low-tox on-the-go companions for hikes, beach days, and camping trips.  If you are looking for additional relief from bug bites, our Kinfield Bug Bite Relief Patches may be able to help. These easy-to-apply hydrocolloid patches are made with powerful, natural plant-based ingredients. They come in multiple sizes and are also waterproof, making them an ideal low-toxic travel product. 3. Refreshing Wet Wipes Wet wipes are versatile travel companions for freshening up on-the-go. Biodegradable wipes made from sustainable materials like bamboo or organic cotton are good eco-friendly options that break down naturally, reducing environmental impact and leaving you feeling refreshed wherever your travels take you.  Wet wipes are multi-purpose, making them ideal when traveling. Common uses for the wipes are to relieve and soothe irritated skin, moisturize the face and body, act as a natural deodorant when applied to your under arms, and even act as a makeup remover.  We turn to our Conscious Coconut Organic Coconut Oil Wipes to moisturize and refresh skin while traveling. The only ingredient in this product is 100% Organic Fair Trade Certified™ Virgin Hand-Pressed Coconut Oil. Coconut Oil is full of antioxidants and Vitamin E, which both work to  deliver nutrients to the body and calm the skin when applied topically. 4. Travel-Size Hair Products  There is no need to sacrifice good hair while traveling. If you are looking for hair products with clean ingredients, then avoid sulfates, parabens, and phthalates, which can strip your hair of natural oils and potentially cause irritation.  If you are looking for low-toxic hair products while traveling, we recommend the Yarok Styling Travel Essentials. This kit includes TSA size-friendly products like Feed Your Hold Hairspray, Feed Your Ends Leave-in Conditioner and Feed Your Roots Mousse to help you look (and feel) your best. 5. Car Freshener  If you are going to be in your car for a long period of time, you may want to use a car freshener to mask any unpleasant odors.  The Grow Fragrance Car Freshener is an excellent choice for your road trip. This product is formulated with certified 100% plant-based ingredients and none of the harmful chemicals found in traditional petroleum-based products. Pro-tip: This product can also be placed inside your luggage when traveling, leaving your clothes smelling good without compromising on ingredients.  Lox-Tox, Low Stress When traveling, you will often be exposed to various different toxins in an unfamiliar environment. However, try not to stress about the things you cannot control, like your external surroundings. Rather, do your best to focus on making the best choices you can. If you want to have a healthier, low-toxic lifestyle, you can opt for travel products with clean ingredients. Enjoy your vacation and remember, life is all about balance. 

Blogs – by Iliriana Zeneli

Which Magnesium Is Right for You?

How to choose the right magnesium for you! Which magnesium is best, this is a little cheat sheet on the best kinds.

Blogs – by Iliriana Zeneli

The Pros And Cons of Creatine

Does Creatine cause bloating? Is Creatine safe for women? How to take creatine? All questions answered in this short review.

Blogs – by Iliriana Zeneli

Tracking Your Fertility Naturally

Not sure how to track your fertile window because you recently got off birth control or you're looking to naturally prevent pregnancy? This blog explains my favorite ways to naturally track fertility.

Blogs – by Iliriana Zeneli

Strengthen Your Immune System for Winter

Looking to boost your immune system during the winter months and flu season? Here is a list of all my favorite immune supporting supplements.

Blogs – by Iliriana Zeneli

What's The Hype Around Shilajit?

What is shilijit and do I need to supplement with it?

Blogs – by Iliriana Zeneli

Supplements to get you through Holiday Season

The holidays always seem like a time where everything gets thrown out the window: habits, morals and definitely our routines. Let's be real, with all the running around, stress and more I don't always have the time to prioritize my 56 step routine so that's when my mighty supplements come in handy. I do not take all of these simultaneously but I definitely keep a few in my tool box for whenever I need them. In no particular order here are some of my favorites to whip out during family time.   Break it down digestive enzymes: I love these because they contain 15 digestive enzymes to help alleviate common digestive issues like bloating and occasional constipation (which are both super common around this time because of everything we're neglecting). It also includes one billion probiotics to help promote the health of your intestinal wall, which can get damaged when foods are poorly digested. It's easy to overeat or come across an unknown food sensitivity, or find that you feel bloated after certain meals. I personally like the powder because I can make it into a fun mocktail and sip on it before meals. On the topic of gut health one of my favorite supplements from Juna is their new Gut Therapy formula which can really be taken not just around the holidays. It helps with everything from blood glucose levels, gut immunity, reducing nausea, indigestion, bloat and gas. Taking it long term can positively impact your overall gut health if you've been struggling.  I recently made a mocktail using our Cymbiotika Molecular Hydrogen and it was amazing and can totally be remixed in different ways! Molecular hydrogen helps beat oxidative stress which can be brought on not just from food but even toxins and things out of our control. Especially if we're not hosting the holidays at home we can be exposed to unnecessary toxins elsewhere with candles and cleaning products.  The next two supplements are so important for liver health. Our liver takes a hit not just when we drink but when were exposed to toxins or eating foods that don't love us back. Our Zuma liver detox is great as a tea, in water or juice.  Some kind of liver support is ALWAYS in my supplement rotation especially when I cant do my nightly castor oil packs.  If you're looking for something more fun that you can add to smoothie or drink as a mocktail our Well Told Health Face The Day powder is perfect for those of you who still like to enjoy a glass of wine or two around the holiday season. It helps to relieve discomfort resulting from what you ate or drank the night or day before & if your liver needs a little extra support after a busy weekend or holiday festivities.  Another aspect of health people don't think about much during the holidays is their lymphatic system. When we wake up after a day or weekend of drinking and eating a lot we also wake up puffy, sluggish and have that "full" feeling. This can be due to how taxing the overeating, the drinking and lack of movement can be during the holiday season. Our Zuma Lymphatic Detox can help toxins be eliminated from the body so we don't become more susceptible to sickness. (this is also great for those of us who are acne prone) Last but not least if you're looking for a good probiotic to support you through the end of the year Zuma also makes a great multi-strain one that helps with mood, metabolism and overall gut health.  Again like I said, I really pick and choose some that I feel I need. My holiday season will be low key this year but I do plan on eating half my body weight in turkey and cranberry sauce FROM THE CAN so definitely will be adding some digestive support to the tool box. Happy Holidays! 

Blogs – by Iliriana Zeneli

Rosemary Beach Travel Guide 2023

If you've never been to Florida's best kept secret (at least for me) welp, now you have to go. I have never heard of 30A, Alys Beach or Rosemary Beach until talking to some local Floridians and asking them where they like to travel since the summer gets so hot here.  Then all that was popping up on my FYP was 30A and I knew I had to go. I was skeptical going to another beach town since I literally live in one but BOY was I impressed. (disclaimer I'm going to go back and forth between Alys and Rosemary beach since they are adjacent and walking distance from each other so we went to both the same day)  We went for my birthday weekend, just Matt, myself and Moose. I typically plan everything on a schedule but this time around I just wanted to relax and explore and so happy we did.  We stayed in an airbnb that was WAY too large for us, it slept 12 people but it was the only place I could find last minute that was dog friendly.  This was the airbnb and it was really beautiful. They also have this little area in between Rosemary & Alys Beach called Seacrest beach which is literally a rental community it seemed like with its own tram service, pool access and beach access. We were right outside that community and still had all their amenities. Its very family friendly and a decent amount of bachelorette parties. Highly suggest that area for large groups.  We spent a lot of our time just on the beach or walking around with Moose. You can rent bikes were are pretty easy to find. Our Airbnb had bikes available so we didnt need to use a service, if you have more people you can rent a golf cart or hop on the tram.  Restaurants were the main attraction here and we had some pretty good food. We didnt get to try everything since we were only there for two full days but ill list out all the restaurants I had on my list so you can mix and match.  The hot spot and definitely healthillie approved spot was Raw & Juicy. They have breakfast, lunch & dinner (on weekends), fresh organic juices, a little shop with handmade body products, amazing smoothies, bowls and bites. We ate breakfast here everyday by just walking over. I loved it here.  Another breakfast/cafe spot was Fonville Press, lots of healthillie approved snacks in there!  Dinner: The Citizen had amazing food, nice ambience, and even mocktail options!  The Pearl rooftop/Havana Rooftop had nice views, live music but not my vibe food wise but a cute spot to stop for drink during sunset.  Pescado Rooftop topped it for me. Amazing food & views. So cute in here! More Dinner spots we didnt get to go to: Gallion's George's Neat (wine bar) La Crema Paradis Highly suggest just walking around Rosemary Beach and hanging out. Lots of live music and chill night life. Really feels like you're in Europe with the buildings and architecture and just overall vibe of the area.  Matt reached out to a company to do a beach bonfire, apparently its a very popular thing to do there, we saw a handful on the beach with large parties and families. They even set ours up to have gluten free smores. Highly recommend Other Mamas.  Here are my IG reels to give you some visuals of what we did. Reel 1 Reel 2 Reel 3 Lastly wanted to link a couple things I packed for myself since my supplement routine is very important when I travel. First greens, I NEVER get enough greens when I travel and I feel like thats always what contributes to slower digestion. So I packed a few packets of the Cymbiotika Greens and also the Vitamin C for immunity. Since its very hard to get high quality water on the go I also bring our Cymbiotika Molecular Hydrogen. This really makes such a difference in how I feel energy wise and skin wise.  Since we drove I was able to bring my whole pack of matcha by Blume. I live this because its already flavored how i like it so I just need to add milk or water and enjoy.  I find I have a hard time sleeping in new places and we had an hour time zone change that I didnt expect so I brought some tea and magnesium with us. Our topical magnesium is something I use everyday so thankfully I was able to bring it since again, we drove.  Hopefully you guys add Alys Beach to your future travel plans because I'm definitely going back! 

Blogs – by Iliriana Zeneli

MY TOP TIPS FOR PRECONCEPTION HEALTH

How to plan a holistic pregnancy! My favorite books, accounts, and supplements for family planning and preconception health.

Blogs – by Iliriana Zeneli

My Favorite Practioners

As a health coach, who no longer takes clients, I still want to provide so many of you with great ways to invest in your health. I have personally broken away from the western medical system years ago after being gaslit about my health issues and told my blood work was normal regardless of FEELING normal - and Ive found a lot of relief being my own advocate and finding likeminded coaches/doctors online.  Now don't get me wrong Western Medicine is extremely important and has a place in my health journey but for preventative health, I have found a lot of help and healing by following and investing in people below.  If you'd like to find a Naturpathic Doctor near you. If you'd like to find a Functional Doctor near you.  also another great place I've come across and had the chance of visiting is The Lanby in NYC. Its membership based and a great place to go for primary care in general.  Looking for at home blood testing thats easy and get one on one work with a practitioner try these:  Moment Health Co. for overall health Paloma Health at home thyroid test Viome at home gut test For more knowledge about cancer and treatment, I love following @connealymd and her practice Cancer Center for Healing Here is a list of my favorite practitioners to follow who also currently take clients: @kalemekourtnutrition opened up her own program complete with lab testing - she's great to work with if you are TTC, struggling with PCOS, & hormone issues. I've personally worked with her for half a year now and WOW the change I've seen in my energy and health overall has been indescribable.  @drhalieschoff offers lab testing also in her program and depending on where you are in NY (shes up north north) she also does in person and free discovery calls over the phone along with amazing retreats!  @jessicaashwellness is perfect if you are struggling with thyroid issues (hypo or hyper), PCOS, hormonal issues, weight problems, etc She has lots of free downloads/courses and has an amazing more in depth program. @drshannoncurtis is my favorite follow for all things ACNE! She has a masterclass on how to heal after Accutane and you can even work with her virtually or in person if youre in Boulder Colorado.  @dr.ryan.monahan is a functional medicine doctor who discusses topics from the IUD to chronic UTIs to endometriosis. Really knows his supplements and is a wealth of knowledge.  @ashleytaylorwellness offers Health and Life coaching if you feel you need someone to kick you into shape physically and mentally.  @innate_fertility is a prenatal, pregnancy and postpartum coach offering courses and so much knowledge if you're TTC. @jessicaanazareth is a sexual wellness coach specializing in all things libido, sex and vaginal health.  @meg_langston has an amazing 1:1 course and guides if you are struggling with metabolic health, hormone issues or digestion.  @yourgutsygal has great coaching on all things GUT HEALTH.  @caleeshea has so many courses for anyone looking to break up with birth control of all kinds, workout for their cycle, and heal their hormones.   There are also a bunch of new membership based functional practices where you pay a subscription monthly or yearly and have 24 hour access to professionals and lab work. I think this is a great option for people who are unsure where to start and definitely need more support but also people who are looking for health maintenance. Malla is one of those programs!  Along with Function Health founded by Dr. Mark Hyman I will be expanding this list periodically as I find more coaches and doctors I love but it IS worth investing in your health.  Remember, finding a practitioner isn't as easy as picking out an outfit. Id suggest taking a couple days, look at what each one has to offer and weigh out your budget. 

Blogs – by Iliriana Zeneli

Healthillie's 2022 Mocktail Guide

I have been on my sober journey for about 2 years now and that has officially made me a mocktail connoisseur.    I have become obsessed with trying all different types of drinks and have accumulated some favorites through a lot of trial and error. Here are some of my top favorites to impress your family and friends and maybe even silence the "JuSt hAvE a DRinK!" comments you're bound to hear all night.  By The Bottle: These are some favorite brands where you can buy a whole bottle as a house warming gift, to "pop" like champagne, or just mimic that bottle of wine you gave up drinking.  1. Drink De Soi is actually Katy Perry's aperitif company and they also sell cans and 3 unique flavors. I personally enjoy Golden Hour and they contain adaptogens to help you relax and vibe out.  2. The mocktail option I offered at my wedding was Drink Ghia Aperitif, sparkling water and a sprig of rosemary. It looked and taste so elegant. The bottle is stunning and it also contains botanicals to help you kick up the energy.  3. For Bitter or Worse is perfect to drink alone or as a mixer. Love these options for occasions where you're probably the only boozeless beauty in the fam. These just simply taste nice, no major effects but nice to have!  4. Can't have a list without Three Spirit Livener, It's really the perfect bottle to bring to get the whole party started. Contains guayusa, guava leaf and schisandra to help you literally feel energized.  5. A really nice gift to bring, these are botanical wine swaps! Essentially wine without the alcohol. This is great for anyone who just misses their wine nights or loves the taste of wine, but not that wine migraine - Drink Proxie is where it's at.  6. Optimist Botanicals is another great bottle to use as a mixer to create your own mocktail beverages. Mix with a sparkling soda, tonic or create your own fancy blend and impress everyone.  7. Most cocktail mixers at the liquor store are filled with additives and even colors. Mixly creates great mixers with fruit juices and they have so many fun recipes on their website. 8. Miss the FLAVOR of alcohol but not alcohol itself? Amass makes Gin & Vodka with all natural botanicals. I also just love their packaging, looks so chic.  Fill The Cooler:  These are brands that will blend right in with the other cans in the cooler. Ive gotten invited to so many house parties or BBQ's where I don't want to sit there concocting my own mocktail, I want something easy to just bring and pop open a can. 1. My number one spot is easily Kin Euphorics in Spritz. I personally like the flavor of Lightwave better BUT after 3 Spritz I literally felt "tipsy" - I was giggly and relaxed. You can find many in stores now so I'd search their store locator but these are a winner in my book.  2. Love a spicy paloma? De La Calle makes some of my favorite drinks ever and truly the perfect in hand drink if your're feeling spicy. The variety pack is a great way to start since there is truly something for everyone, Pineapple and Manzana are my favorite though.  3. C'mon you think I'd leave out my favorite, Olipop? You can find them practically everywhere now so it makes the best in hand purchase if you get a last minute invite somewhere. Plus they have so many flavors someone is bound to love. If you shop online you can use my code Healthillie15 4. Craving a cocktail but not sure how to make your own mocktail? Drink Avec is SO cute to hold and they come in so many flavors. They make amazing mixers so even your drinking friends can enjoy a clean mix alternative.  5. My beer lovers, there is a solution! Athletic Brewing Company created non-alcoholic beer. Now I havent tried these because I never liked beer but they literally look just like beer and they have very similar ingredients. SO if you try it let me know!  6. Canned wine drinkers, Surely got you! They do contain sulfites which some people dont react well to (they're in regular wine too) but if it doesn't bother you then these are not only CUTE, they give me major Hamptons vibes, but they have your favorite wine flavors so you don't miss out on wine night.  Kin, Ghia & Drink De Soi also come in cans if you enjoy that adaptogenic feeling!  I hope this list helps all you Boozeless Babes on your sober journey and remember why we choose no alcohol - we're making health hot again hehe

Blogs – by Illie Z

Illie's Healthie Holiday Gift Guide

It is almost that time of year to start gifting the family CLEAN PRODUCTS (that they'll probably roll their eyes at, but appreciate in the long run).  I am the black sheep of the family when it comes to my lifestyle. Like who asks for an air purifier for Christmas? lol me.  Now I wanted to make a list that DIDN'T involve my website although, anything from my website is a perfect gift/stocking stuffer. Personal favorite: candles, grow fragrance, skincare! If you are reading this - we are getting actual stocking stuffers up on the site in a few weeks with such cute minis and trials for the fam who is still hesitant!  But enough of that let's get to the ultimate healthie holiday gift guide for literally anyone in the family!  1. COYUCHI Literally anything coyuchi. This brand is all organic, luxurious and definitely pricey BUT you really cant match the quality. Here are a few I would personally go for as a gift: Super Soft Organic Throw Blanket Unisex Organic Waffle Robe Organic Bath Towels 2. For the Nut Milk Lover Definitely a splurge with the $218 price point BUT you literally never have to buy your own milk ever again so..... feel like it pays itself after a while.  Nut milk maker 3. Natural Perfume This is something I personally bought for myself and the scents are really light and beautiful. Comes in a set of 3 roller balls and they are all clean scents. They are simple and easy to just pop in your bag. Feel like this is good for any age group too!  4. Mate The Label Who does'nt love an ORGANIC matching set? like cmon. If you build your own matching set its 20% off so I think thats a pretty good deal. Perfect for anyone but especially the HOME BODY.  Make your own set here.  5. Clean Self Care Set Okay personally, I LOVE just making a basket full of things depending on what the person likes. So picture this: get some clean bath salts, clean candle, clean exfoliant and then biohack the heck out of it and add a BATH WATER FILTER. Tbh, I would love something like this.  6. The BioHacker That Has Everything This is a product Ive personally been trying for a while now (on the low low because I'm the biggest skeptic) BUT I stayed open minded and it's actually INSANE. I got a somavedic to structure my water and block emf in my home. Water can be really poor quality, as most of us know, so with all the chemical treatments out water gets - the structure of it gets damaged. One thing I've noticed is I literally sleep like an absolute rock. You know those sleeps where you wake up and wonder when the heck you even fell asleep in the first place? yeah. They also have a 100% money back guarantee which is unheard of with most products. The price point is hefty but they gave me a code: HEALTHILLIE20 7. Blue Light Blockers This is a great gift for anyone in your family or friends list that you know is in front of a computer or TV screen all day. A good pair of blue light blockers can be a total game changer in someones health. I love these from RA Optics - lots of nice frames and the right amount of color so that you are actually blocking blue light. The one the eye doctor gives you is NOT enough like... at all.  8. The skincare obsessed These are two brands I plan on holding on my website - very soon BUT I dont want to hold out on you all because they are THAT amazing. Agent Nateur is for the absolute bougie skincare babe that you know. They have a higher price point, but for good reason. If you want to absolute change your skin and defy aging this is it. Really great for all skin types and even mature skin.  This is a fun set to gift!  The second brand was a black friday find for myself 2 years ago and I used every single drop. I personally got "The Whole Shebang" and it came with their skincare, body oils, body creams, masks and literally everything they have. I used every single thing. They have other gift sets for hydration, clear skin, body and more so you can really find something for most. I personally cant wait to hold them on LiveHealthillie so hopefully by the time you are done with ur trial - well be rocking and rolling!  9. Red Light Therapy Another major splurge that I also asked for for my birthday last year and use it constantly is my red light therapy . Any size does the trick and this is perfect for literally anyone that suffers with pain, poor sleep or are just active people. This can even help with skin to help produce more collagen. I personally use it before bed for about 10-15 minutes to help promote deeper sleep, help with my skin and even on my thyroid to reduce inflammation. It's really a great investment.  10. Toss The Toxins As the last product on my list, this may be a weird one. I really feel like a full kit of Branch Basics is perfect for someone who is really ready to make the leap or has just been wanting it for a while. You get $$ off with my code HEALTHILLIE so thats def a perk. Branch Basics completely swaps out any cleaner you have from toxic ass windex to greenwashing fake clean Mrs. Meyers (yes i said it, fake clean) AND the need to any type of powerful detergent or 'oxiclean' crap. The starter kit is the perfect place and tbh if you don't get it for someone else, get it for yourself. I have such a peace of mind knowing I don't have to worry about my home cleaners being toxic at all.  11. Most Aesthetic Diffuser Ever I personally have a diffuser from here and I absolutely love it. (also got it for christmas) I feel like most diffusers are so typical and ugly tbh but these are so pretty to just have as decor in your house!  That's my ultimate healthie list! I know there are SO many more but I felt like most health and wellness peeps always suggest similar things so I wanted to add some unique gifts here for people at all levels of their journey.  Also stay tuned for our stocking stuffers slowly hitting the website, we already have one live which is our grow fragrance discovery set! If you are hesitant or want to get someone else on board to ditch the febreze it's such a good stocking stuffer or add on to a gift basket!  Happy Holidays!   

Blogs – by Illie Z

Parasite Cleanse 101

Okay so you've decided our parasite cleanse is right for you so here we are! This is a master list straight from Zuma on how to do it and how to prepare.  Will you see parasites in your poop? You 100% can. Some people get gloves and take their poop apart to see anything large but if you don't want to do all that, then don't and youll be fine.  Will you FEEL them coming out of your butt? lol no. They are dead by the time they come out, you will not feel it. I have seem people pull out some crazy long parasites but they usually takes a few rounds before something that large comes out and by then you are a pro.  How long is the cleanse? This one is 30-45 days. I have seen longer ones that are more extensive but they are normally 30 days if you want them to be effective.  What's it taste like? Gunna be honest, not that great. The herbs used for parasites are extremely powerful - to help with the taste I make it hot like a tea and a big ass squeeze of lemon. DAY 1-3 Take a 1/2 dropper before bed on an empty stomach (2 hours after eating)  DAY 3-30 Take 1 full dropper AM + PM (if after day 3 it feels like a lot, take a few more days of just the half dropper than that will end up extending the amount of time you are on the cleanse.  OTHER SUPPLEMENTATION (what I will be doing - you do not have to do all this but it can be helpful) full dropper of our Trace Minerals in water on an empty stomach in the morning and then throughout the day. 1 dropper per 12-24oz of water. you can also use the Liver Detox if you are having trouble pooping and add a squeeze of lemon juice (I personally drink this hot like a tea) 1 hour before lunch take a probiotic of choice. I personally use our Trust Your Gut & Ora sells a less expensive version of their probiotic on their website and you can use my code HEALTHILLIE at checkout. DIE OFF SYMPTOMS When doing this cleanse, if you have parasites they will not leave without letting it be known. Some people dont get any symptoms, some get mild symptoms and some terrible symptoms (and normally if its terrible it means you arent supporting your body properly and arent hydrated - remember that) fatigue headaches cravings skin breakouts  rash aches flu like symptoms phlegm or stuffy nose brain fog yes the symptoms can be pretty shitty but fair to say the only issue I had the first time around was migraines and they lasted about a week and subsided. I also had bad hormonal acne prior and by the time I finished my skin cleared up id say easily 95%. Not promising anything since we are all different but just sharing my experience.  AVOIDING DIE OFF SYMPTOMS drink plenty water (not tap) should be filtered or spring water get good sleep avoid processed foods daily self massages get in nature + ground PREPARING FOR THE CLEANSE cleanse the colon: consume 1tbsp chia seeds + fulvic minerals in 8 oz water and drink daily. move daily avoid highly processed foods check your supplements and food for seed oils, artificial sweeteners, dies, and mystery flavoring start from now to drink plenty water and hydrate. avoid high glycemic fruits FOODS TO ADD WHILE CLEANSING garlic onion honey dates pumpkin seeds!!!!!!  pineapple apple cider vinegar spices coconut oil carrots dandelion greens kale broccoli sunflower seeds fermented foods chia seeds!!!!!! okay thats everything you need to know about the parasite cleanse so if you ever plan on doing it again, you have this full blog on my website and even better Zuma has so many amazing blogs on other cleanses that they have and more info on parasites if you are looking for that!

Blogs – by Illie Z

Do you Need a Parasite Cleanse?

So you saw my story about me doing our parasite cleanse and you want to know if you are a good candidate. Ive done one major parasite cleanse at the beginning of my health journey knowing practically nothing about how to do one or if I should even do one - so don't be like me.  Im going to go over all the basic questions here that I get and I'll link the next blog here when it's live about how to prep for one, how to do it and what to expect.  What is a parasite and how do we get them? I always personally thought parasites were something you get in foreign countries but after joining the wellness space, I realized if you are breathing you most likely have a parasite and I was STILL skeptical so I did one and then i literally saw them in my poop :) so here we are.  You can get parasites from public restrooms (people not washing their hands and touching door knobs etc), fruits, veggies and most commonly meat, and you can get parasites from just having a pet. Pet's tend to lick their own ass, then lick themselves, then you pet them and you go about your day just touching your face etc or even more you let them lick your face and mouth.  So cleary getting a parasite it more common than you may think so chances are if you are reading this you have one, but it's also not for everyone.    Do not do a parasite cleanse if: you are pregnant or breastfeeding you don't poop consistently (you excrete parasites through your poop, so if you don't poop.... well you don't wanna know)  you struggle with fainting, not eating enough. you have already done 1 less than 10 weeks ago Always consult with your doctor before starting any type of cleanse because this isn't medical advice and I don't know your life.  ALRIGHT, so if you aren't any of the above then let's go into if you even need one, cuz who is tryna go through all this and they may not have to ya feel.  Some common symptoms of parasites are: chronic fatigue chronic migraines acne gas bloating nausea vomiting skin rashes like eczema Diarrhea  constipation If this sounds like you, then I would highly suggest either joining me for my parasite cleanse or doing one that you prefer that you may have done prior and had success It is suggested to do 2 cleanses yearly, I personally do one year (around fall no particular reason just a very cleansing time of year for me). It is not suggested to do anymore than 2 as your body needs time to adjust.  Hope this clarified any questions you've been having about being a candidate for a parasite cleanse!   

Blogs – by Illie Z

My Mother's Day Gift Guide

Mother's Day is around the corner and I wanted to make a quick guide to help you find the perfect non-toxic gifts for a mother or mother figure in your life! For The Active Mom: Protein + Greens: this organic protein + greens powder is perfect for mom's on the go. Goes great alone with milk or in a smoothie and has a subtle banana/vanilla flavor Ora Organics Matcha: if you love matcha and want a clean alternative to starbucks favorite - this is the next best thing with a solid boost of energy and no crash Moon Valley Herbal Muscle Rub: we all know moms with achey body parts - so give the gift of relief. This is a natural swap to Tiger Balm! For The Mom That Needs A Break: We all have that mom that never has time for a spa day, so bring it to her with our Sweet Dreams Salt Soak. With calming lavender and chamomile - she is guaranteed to feel relaxed This magnesium sleep spray is a game changer, get one for yourself while you are at it! A few sprays on the body and you are ready for bed. A face mask is a must for any spa day - this gentle enzyme mask is perfect for all skin types and gives such a hydrating boost of nourishment The SkinCare Obsessed Mom: Another great ask for aging skin is the Hibiscus Regenerating Mask, just dump some powder into a bowl and mix with water! Our dual ended jade roller is a game changer for any skincare routine. It stays naturally cool to help depuff skin, tone, and help oils penetrate better. this unique gift is something anyone will love - Sea Body Sponge. Fully sustainable and biodegradable. Great swap to those conventional plastic ones and also helps gently exfoliate skin. Last our newest summer addition- Marina! Perfect for evening out texture and discoloration, perfect addition to any skincare regiment. The Lavender Lover: Personally, my grandma loves anything lavender so I had to give you some insight on what I will be getting her. First, our luxurious body butter - perfect for all skin types but especially super dry skin. Grow Fragrance - for me this is so important since I really want the women in my life to avoid endocrine disrupting artificial fragrance so this is a must and we have a bunch of beautiful scents including Lavender ofc! Our newest item which is a great pair for our diffuser is the Lavender essential oil! It can also be used on dryer balls in replace of dryer sheets. Then we have our beautiful lavender body wash one from Moon Valley and a frothier one from Organic Bath!  The New Mom: We always remember baby, but we forget mom needs love too! Make new mom feel cared for with our amazing Lash booster, with botanicals to help eyebrows and lashes grow! My newest obsession is our body scrubs in Peppermint and Blood Orange - super hydrating and fine grains anyone will love! Who doesnt love a bath bomb? Ditch toxic Lush products and get this non toxic bath bomb that smells DIVINE. Our magnesium oil is just perfect for anyone and especially a new mom who can use some peaceful sleep!  A lip scrub is simple way to feel luxurious and hydrated- I personally use this probably more than I should but its that awesome The Health Kick Mom: So if I was a mom, what would I want? Well my go-to's ofc! Beauty Collagen is such a nice and simple gift and its perfect for anyone since its unflavored and easy to use Sweat it out detox bath salt is perfect for whoever wants to push out those toxins and start fresh! Zuma Trace Minerals will make any mom feel like they have their life together- since many of us simply do not eat enough variety this is a great addition to any health freaks daily routine! ANY MOM!: We all have that mom we have no clue what to get, has everything, or its a teacher, neighbor, in law whoever you can never go wrong with a beautiful diffuser and essential oil combo Dont want to spend too much? our non toxic candles are just as beautiful and any mom would love!  Hope this little blog helps! Happy Mother's Day!

Blogs – by Illie Z

WHICH ZUMA PRODUCT IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Zuma Nutrition is easily one of my favorite brands on Live Healthillie, not just because of their great packaging and high quality supplements but their entire ethos as a company and their mission towards health.  Right now, I hold 4 of their best selling products and I plan on holding more but I truly believe these 4 can create a solid foundation for anyone wanting to upgrade their health.  So which one is right for you? I made a quick check-list so you can decide for yourself!  Fulvic Acid + Trace Minerals Most of us should be getting our minerals from our food but because of mono cropping and poor access to real spring water - we are lacking.  Fulvic Acid has the ability to chemically bind to toxins and eliminate them from the body Helps increase absorption of nutrients Supports Gut Health Protects Brain Health Reduces Inflammation Taken Daily Best Taken With: Liver Detox or Parasite Detox Read more at Zuma Nutrition  Parasite Detox Most people have parasites whether we want to admit it or not. You can get them from just living with pets and even eating sushi. Other countries actually encourage parasite detoxes bi-yearly!  This may be for you if you struggle with any of these symptoms: brain fog acne sleep disorders teeth grinding eczema hives food allergies loss of appetite Best taken with Fulvic Acid Trace Minerals Before doing the Parasite Detox please read Zuma's Guide.  Liver Detox The liver is probably one of the most important detox organics in the body and it is responsible for over 500 different functions in the body. This is the one I have been taking myself before starting a parasite detox so I can make sure my main detox organ is flushing all the gunk out before trying to push out parasites!  You may need to support your liver if you struggle with these symptoms: acne + skin rashes allergies blood sugar imbalances fatigue headaches sluggish stools muscle/joint pain depression mood swings best taken with Fulvic Acid Trace Minerals Liposomal Curcmin Most people suffer with chronic inflammation which is mostly caused from things like overload of toxins to untreated symptoms. Common signs of inflammation are: chronic illness skin disorders (eczema, psoriasis etc) joint pain inflamed gums IBS + gut issues asthma This is also the best tasting product from the whole line.  Hopefully this will help you narrow down your choices with your next purchase!  Disclaimer: this is not medical advice, always consult with your doctor before trying anything new  

Blogs – by Illie Z

HOW TO DETOX YOUR ARMPITS

Did you know your skin is the largest detox organ? That's why sweating is so dang important, but we've been conditioned to stop it instead of embrace it.  Now no one is saying you need to be sweating buckets on a daily basis, there is balance to sweating. I personally suffered for years with hypohydrosis which is a condition where you sweat WAY more than the average person - even when it's cold out. I would sweat through SWEAT SHIRTS it was so embarrassing. Whenever I went to a doctor they either gave me all these prescription deodorants (that burned like hell btw) or last case scenario: BOTOX.  When I first started switching our my deodorant to a non-toxic version, I already accepted that I will have to deal with being a sweaty beast for the rest of my life.  but the story doesn't stop there, it has a happy ending, I promise.  There are a lot of reasons to swap your deodorant and here are just some: CANCER: there have been more and more studies recently seeing the correlation between breast cancer and aluminum, which is an active ingredient in deodorant. Think about it this way, the armpit is so close to breast tissue, these toxins build up in the lymph nodes close to the breast and can become overwhelmed with toxins and cause cancer.  Aluminum has other links too including DNA damage which can lead to the formation of cancer.  FRAGRANCE: Fragrance is defined by the FDA as a combination of chemicals that gives each product its distinct scent. So whenever I see "fragrance/parfum" on any product, I always put it back.  fragrance is a little complicated though because you can see "natural fragrance" on the back it can sometimes mean essential oils but its always good to check with the brand, some brands genuinely wont disclose especially if they are a smaller brand and don't want people stealing their scents. Then it's up to you to choose whether or not to buy them!  The last reason I wanted to switch was because since our largest sweating organ is our skin but I'm here trying to prevent sweating, it made no sense to me to not optimize my bodies natural detox pathway.  What you need for detoxing your armpits: 1. Natural Deodorant 2. Charcoal or Benzonite Clay 3. Patience WEEK ONE:  some people do not see a difference right away nor notice anything but use the charcoal bar to wash your armpits every night or mix some clay and water and use as a mask to help pull toxins WEEK TWO: you should be smelling and maybe even sweating more at this point since now your armpit pores are freeing up to push out toxins. I remember smelling so terrible for THREE weeks, I had lots of backed up toxins in my body continue doing week ones routine WEEK THREE: for most people by now the smell will subside and now you can continue to wash you armpits with the charcoal to help keep you dry and stink free. if you are still smelling, please give yourself some time and also access the foods you are eating. You are what you eat, so super smell pungent foods will come out through your pores ie garlic, onions etc WEEK FOUR: this was my free week, I was finally free and using deodorant like a normal person, I didnt have to use my bar nightly, only if I felt I had to or on days I knew Id have a sweaty day. some people need more time than 4 weeks, also okay. Most of us have been using toxic deodorant for YEARS we cant expect changes over night either.  So once I was done: I no longer had hypohydrosis. I was free from sweating at really stupid times. My excess sweating was my body telling me it couldnt keep up with the amount of toxins I was using and it was trying so hard to push them out by SWEATING.  This is why we need to listen to our bodies and not just try to suppress symptoms.  I hope this helps and gives you hope on your detox journey!  Other brands I recommend: Kaia Naturals Primally Pure Nala Humble  

Blogs – by Iliriana Zeneli

HOW TO SHOP FOR PROTEIN POWDERS

Navigating the protein market when there are thousands of ads for brands daily and fitness influencers saying their protein is the BEST one, makes it that much harder to know what is really good for you.  I mad this post for my instagram to get people to make the most informed decisions they can and also know when they are being scammed.  I do want to say, good protein almost always comes with a higher price. If you are being sold a protein for $19.99 at Costco we really need to ask ourselves is this quality, because for that same amount you can buy chicken/meat and get in a real source of protein.  Protein powder is a luxury and the way fitness influencers act like its a necessity is just a way to get you to use their coupon code and make them more money. Real protein will always be more important than not.  How to spot a good protein, it DOES NOT CONTAIN: Artificial Dyes: dyes like RED40, BLUE1, BLUE2, YELLOW5, YELLOW6 and so forth. Many of these dyes have been linked to hyperactivity in children, skin rashes, respiratory reactions like asthma, and tumors. Gums: some gums aren't bad like Gum Arabic which can be a helpful prebiotic but most people who suffer with gut problems or are on a gut healing journey it would actually help to stay away from gums as much as possible. Xanthan Gum, Gellan Gum, Tara Gum, Guar Gum and Cellulose Gum are some to look out for in your protein powders. They are there to thicken these shakes and don't add any nutritional value. HFCS: or high fructose corn syrup has been linked to a wide array of health conditions especially obesity. Most fitness influencers I come across think they don't eat a lot of sugar but sadly they're not looking at their protein powders where things like this are hiding. ALWAYS AVOID. Synthetic Vitamins: If there are vitamins added to the "other ingredients" you know that it has been added synthetically. Although it's great to get in your vitamins, these ones are bioavailable meaning our bodies can't utilize them therefore they are worthless. They can lead to nutrient deficiencies because people think they are getting their required about of (x) vitamin when they simply aren't. Synthetic Sugar: these are the worst culprits and are usually the reason why people may not see the results they want to see because of the hidden sugars in their daily shakes. Aspartame, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium to name a few. If it says "0 sugar" on the front or is super low in calories we know that something has been added to make it sweeter. I approve of monk fruit or stevia leaf extract, as long as its from a natural source.  Natural Flavors: these flavors can literally mean anything. There is no regulation and the FDA protects the brand from having to reveal what it is made from, go ahead and ask any brand, 99.9% will NOT tell you. This mystery ingredient is a recipe for disaster. The only time I let flavoring slide is when its "organic x ingredient" - this is just telling me its going by organic regulations and I know where its coming from they just used a little bit of science to enhance the flavor which for ME I personally don't mind since I don't want my protein to taste like dirt either  Pesticides: well how do I know there are pesticides? well, there are always going to be pesticides in anything since that's how things need to be grown. What I personally avoid is non organic protein since it is sprayed with literally any harmful pesticide they have and especially if there are GMO crops used in the protein then we know it has been sprayed with cancer causing RoundUp. Always aim for organic and go the extra mile to ask for the COA, you can email any company it is public information and you can see the heavy metal content of the powders you are looking into buying. I hope this rundown helped and please take your time when buying supplements, I promise you protein powder should not be 1. cheap and 2. a rush job. If you aren't going to get the real thing you should be getting something as close to the real thing as you possible can.