Portion Control

A customer of ours, Jenny, in Idaho, shared a helpful tip that we want to pass along. If you must have chips or crackers in the house, use zip close sandwich bags and portion the entire bag into them. This works best with the snack sized bags, so you don't pack them too full.

She has found that this is a great way to satisfy her craving without undoing all the good she has done already. It's when you deny yourself completely of things you love that you run into problems staying with your healthy eating plan.
Thanks for the tip Jenny!

Social Overeating

Eating whatever you wanted at a restaurant was OK in the days when people ate out only a few times a year, but these days we dine out every week, if not every day!

Solution: Search the menu for meals cooked using low-fat methods, such as grilling or stir-frying, and ask for sauces and dressing on the side. Then you can control how much of it you eat.

Success Story: I Wore My Favorite Jeans Today...and I Can Breathe In Them!

I've Lost 18 Pounds and Dropped Over 2 Pant sizes. I wore my favorite jeans today, and I didn't even have to lay on the bed and use pliers to pull the zipper up!

I love the TG-2000 ADVANCE! I take the Meta-21 with it and they are really working for me. This is awesome. Thank you so much Nature's BodyCare! Jeana of South Dakota, April 2009

It's All ABout You!

Eating Healthier sometimes feels like the "Food Police" are always watching you. In reality, there is only one you, and you want to have a long and healthy life. It's all about YOU.
Think of your car. You wouldn't put old, dirty oil in it. It would sputter and eventually have all kinds of expensive repairs. You want something that will make the engine run smooth and quiet. Is your body not your most prized asset? If not, it surely should be!

Here are a few tips on healthier oils you may wish to consider. (Every little bit helps.)

Choose expeller-pressed oils whenever possible; they’re mechanically pressed from the source — without using chemicals — retaining natural color, flavor and aroma. Most generic “vegetable oils” have been chemically extracted. Store oils in a cool, dark place.
canola oil
An all-purpose cooking oil that’s remarkably low in saturated fat and a source of potentially cholesterol-lowering monounsaturated fat.
non-hydrogenated coconut oil
This fascinating oil is uniquely rich in lauric acid, which the human body converts into an antiviral, antibacterial agent called monolaurin. Its firm texture makes it an excellent alternative to butter or shortening for bakers.
extra virgin olive oil
“Extra virgin” means first pressed, cold pressed, chemically untreated and of minimal acidity. This pillar of Mediterranean cuisine is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fat and the
antioxidant, anti-inflammatory plant substances known as polyphenols. Not recommended for high-heat cooking, but delicious in everything else.
flax oil
A rich, nutty-tasting oil pressed from flax seed, one of our best plant sources of omega-3 essential fatty acids. Store this highly perishable oil in the refrigerator. Use it in salad dressings or drizzle on cooked vegetables; it’s not meant for cooking.
grapeseed oil
Chefs love this versatile, inexpensive oil for its neutral flavor and generous smoking point — it stands up to higher temperatures without burning. Grapeseed oil is rich in vitamin E and is a leading source of linolenic essential fatty acid. When created as a by-product of the winemaking industry, it’s sustainable, too.
nut oils
Unrefined walnut, hazelnut and almond oils make sophisticated condiments that are also good sources of monounsaturated (walnut) and polyunsaturated (hazelnut, almond) fats. Store these
delicate oils in your refrigerator and use them in salad dressings or as finishing touches on grilled meats and fish.
Source: The Practical Guide to Healthier Living

Why Aren't You Losing Weight?#3

It's hard to deny yourself when a family favorite is on the menu for dinner. Especially when it's lasagna! Many of our favorite family meals are high in fat and calories.

Solution: Serve yourself a smaller serving of the main meal and a larger serving of vegetables, and salad (use a spray dressing to lower calorie intake). Many favorite recipes can be adapted by using lower fat cheeses without sacrificing flavor.

It is also helpful to serve the meal to plates and not put the extra food on the table. It helps to control our urge for seconds.

Invest in smaller plates. A smaller plate looks fuller than a large plate, and mind over matter works well in this situation. You may try using the salad plates that you already have in your cupboard!

Drinking plenty of water before and after the meal (not during) will help you feel fuller and will aid with digestion.

Orange Bran Flax Muffins

You are going to LOVE these simple muffins. You can often buy the bran and ground flax in bulk in health food stores very reasonably priced. These are healthy AND taste great...you don't often get both! Recipe courtesy of Flax Council of Canada.

1 1/2 c oat bran

1 c all-purpose flour

1c flax seed, ground

1 c wheat bran

1 Tbsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

2 oranges, quartered and seeded

1 c brown sugar

1 c buttermilk

1/2 c canola oil

2 eggs

1 tsp baking soda

1 1/2 c golden raisins

1. Preheat the oven to 375F Line two 12-cup muffin pans with paper liners, or coat the pans with cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine oat bran, flour, flax seed, wheat bran, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

2. Combine oranges, brown sugar, buttermilk, oil, eggs, and baking soda in a blender or food processor. Blend well.

3. Pour orange mixture into dry ingredients. Mix until well blended. Stir in raisins.

4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pans for 5 minutes before removing to a cooling rack.

Makes 24 muffins

Per muffin: 186 cal, 4g pro, 30 g carb, 8 g fat, 1 g sat. fat, 18 mg chol, 3g fiber, 140 mg sodium, 4 g flax seed.

I've Lost 16 Pounds...and Counting With TG-2000 ADVANCE

I started taking TG-2000 in September 08. I don't exercise much and I haven't really changed my eating habits other than if it doesn't taste good, I stop eating it.

I have lost about 16 pounds and have gone from a size 20 in September to a 16 in January 2009, and now my size 16 pants are even getting loose around the waist. I am wearing clothes I haven’t been able to fit in for 3 years! Julie H.-Utah
[These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnoze, treat, cure or prevent any disease]

Why Aren't You Losing Weight? #2

Skipping Breakfast?
Bad news for weight loss!
Chances are, you are going to feel hungry later, and that may be when you have less access to healthy food and are more likely to reach for a doughnut.
Tip: Keep something on hand that you can eat on the run, such as fruit, yogurt, or fat-free cereal bars.
(You should have some of the delicious Pumpkin Waffles (recipe below) in the freezer to pop in the toaster. Spread with a dab of peanut butter and sliced banana. and you can eat it on the run!)

Six Can Chicken Tortilla Soup

This soup is AMAZING and EASY . It uses only 6 canned ingredients, and taco seasoning. Serve with a few tortilla chips on top along with a little shredded medium cheddar cheese. For added flavor chop 1/4 bunch of Cilantro and add just when serving.

Ingredients:

1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained

2 (14.5 ounce) cans low sodium chicken broth

1 (10-12 ounce) can chunk chicken

1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained

1 (15 oz) diced tomatoes with jalapenos (or green chilies) with juice

3 teaspoons taco seasoning

Empty all cans into a large saucepan, add taco seasoning and stir. Simmer over medium heat until chicken is heated through. Add chopped cilantro if desired, (I thought it was best this way), then top with a few shreds of cheddar cheese. If you really want a pretty presentation, put a tiny dollop of low fat sour cream. Yummmm Makes about 6 servings of 225 calories each.

Turkey Mini Meatloaves

This is sooooo good, and good for you! Jamie the Titanium Chef found it for your healthful eating and it tastes fabulous. Recipe courtesy EatingWell.com

Ingredients
1 pound 93%-lean ground turkey
1 medium zucchini, shredded
1 cup finely chopped onion
1 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
1/3 cup uncooked whole-wheat couscous
1 large egg, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional)
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Generously spray a nonstick muffin pan with cooking spray.
Gently mix turkey, zucchini, onion, bell pepper, couscous, egg, Worcestershire, mustard, pepper and salt in a large bowl, preferably with your hands, without overworking. Equally divide the mixture among the muffin cups. Spread barbecue sauce on top of each loaf, if using.
Bake until the meatloaves are cooked through or an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 165 degrees F, about 25 minutes. Let the loaves stand in the pan for 5 minutes before serving.

Success Story:

"My wife and I have taken GSE for over 8 years. She was having terrible sinus infections regularly, and I was having trouble with allergies. We were introduced to GSE MAX by a friend, and have experienced such a turn around. My wife has not had a single sinus infection since, over 8 years! My allergies are non-existent now. GSE Max is a necessity for both of us, we wouldn't go a day without it."~Neil P., Iowa
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Pumpkin Waffles with Buttermilk Syrup

Hi Friends and Family-I know what its like to be busy with work and life but still want to eat great tasting meals. I also know what its like to be overweight and want to do something to change that. Over the past couple years I found a way to eat great food and lose that weight. I guess with all of those factors and the fact that I Attended Culinary Arts School, Nature's BodyCare thought I would be a great Chef Consultant for them. I will periodically send out yummy recipes that I have found or created. Some will show you ways to make healthy food without having to sacrifice any of the taste, others will just tantalize your taste buds.

These two recipes combined really are a little piece of heaven in your mouth, enjoy!! ~Jamie

Pumpkin Waffles

2 1/2 c flour ( I use half whole-wheat, half all-purpose)

1/3 c packed brown sugar

1 T cinnamon

1 tsp ginger

1/4 tsp cloves

1/2 tsp salt2

1/4 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda2 c buttermilk

1 c pumpkin puree

6 T oil

4 eggs, seperated

Directions:Sift together flour, sugar, spices, salt, baking powder and baking soda. Set aside. Combine buttermilk and pumpkin. Stir in canola oil and egg yolks. In a large glass or metal bowl, beat egg whites with a hand mixer or beater until you have stiff peaks (when you lift beater out of bowl, mixture stays pointy in peaks). Stir dry ingredients into pumpkin mixture till just combined. Fold in egg whites. Cook in waffle iron. Leftovers freeze and toast well.

Buttermilk Syrup

1 cube butter1 cup sugar

1/2 cup buttermilk1 tsp vanilla

1/4 tsp salt

Combine and bring to a boil.

Add 1 tsp baking soda, stir and boil for 1 minute.

Success Story:

Jane from Alaska called today to tell of the success with GSE Max she is having. "I suffer from problems with varicose veins, and when I take the GSE Max they appear less noticeable. I feel it strengthens my veins, as they don't cause me near as much trouble. It is excellent for circulation!"
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Creamy White Chili

Another hit from Jamie the Titanium Chef! If we had a five spoon rating that would describe this one, but we will have to use 4 spoons for now.

Creamy White Chili
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
1 medium onion, chopped
1 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 Tbsp. vegetable oil
2 cans (15.5 ozs each) great northern beans, drained
1 can (14.5 oz.) chicken broth
2 cans (4 ozs each) chopped green chilies
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. dried oregano
1/2 tsp. pepper
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup whipping cream
In a large saucepan, saute chicken, onion and garlic powder in oil until chicken is no longer pink. Add beans, broth, chilies and seasonings. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes. Remove from the heat; stir in sour cream and cream. Serve immediately. Serves 7.
**To make it lower in fat use light or low fat sour cream and milk instead of whipping cream. I make it this way every time and it tastes great!

Share Your Success Story With Us

Many of our customers call each day to share the great success they are having with our products. You can read them by clicking on the bottle of TG2000, or GSE Max on the left and clicking on testimonials.

You can add your story as well by emailing it to us at mysuccess@naturesbodycare.com
We love hearing from you.

Nancy from Minnesota takes our very powerful antioxidant GSE Max, and shares her story:

"I am able to breathe when I take the GSE Max. I have asthma, but I don't have any breathing problems as long as I take it. I have been using GSE Max for about 10 years now, and it makes life so much easier. The times I have not planned well and run out have shown me how well this product really works as I struggle with my asthma symptoms and have trouble breathing without it. I really could not live without this great product, thank you!"
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Eat early, Eat Often:

Starting your day with a healthy breakfast can jump start your metabolism.

Eating the majority of your daily caloric allotment early in the day gives your body time to work those calories off.

Also, eating small, healthy meals throughout the day, rather than the standard three large meals, can help keep your metabolism going and ward off snack attacks.

Lowering the Fat in Holiday Treats

Eggnog:
Use mostly egg whites or egg substitute instead of whole eggs. Use fat-free half and half or evaporated fat-free milk instead of their whole milk counterparts. Substitute rum extract for the alcohol if you want the taste without the effect.

Cakes, Bars and Muffins:
Use heart-healthy canola oil instead of butter, or use applesauce or mashed bananas if you want to cut the fat completely. Other fruit purees will work too. If you must use shortening, there is at least a trans-fat-free version available. Substitute egg whites for whole eggs in cakes and quick breads. Use cocoa powder instead of chocolate in your baked goods to add a rich chocolatey flavor without the fat, or use smaller quantities of miniature chocolate chips instead of the regular versions. Dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips add more flavor than milk chocolate ones.

Cookies:
The key here is to cut the fat rather than eliminate it altogether. If you take the butter out completely, the end result is not very satisfying in terms of texture or taste. Many recipes that typically call for a whole stick of butter or more can be made over with about half that quantity. Avoid using whipped butter or tub margarine: the air and water content in these makes them unsuitable for baking. Again, consider using cocoa for a rich chocolaty flavor and add smaller quantities of chocolate chips. Try some of these Low Fat Christmas Cookie options.

Nuts:
In moderation, these make a great holiday snack. True, nuts are high in fat and dense in calories, but most of the fat is unsaturated. Some are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help protect the heart. Nuts are also an excellent source of B vitamins, as well as iron, zinc and potassium.

Success Story:

"I have used TG-2000 and TG-Max Ultra together now for 3 months and have lost 10 lbs. My main goal is to tone and firm. I do ride a bicycle outside most of the year and take inside cycling classes in the winter. I also lift weights. Now I will take those products to maintain my weight and have more energy, I am 57 but most people I meet think I am around 45. I will continue taking these two products because of the good effects they have on my life."
Thank you. Kris W.-Utah
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Holiday Eating Tips

If you're following a low fat diet, the holiday season is a mixed blessing, especially coming so soon after Thanksgiving. As wonderful as it is to be among family and friends for the holidays, it's hard to say no to all those tempting holiday treats that are passed around. Seemingly, you have two choices: abandon your good intentions and regret it later, or abstain and be miserable.

Fortunately, there is another option: choose wisely and still enjoy yourself. Better still, if you are hosting a holiday celebration, you can control what's offered and adjust many of the recipes to make them lower in fat.

As always, moderation and portion control rule. Too much of anything can add unwanted pounds and be unhealthy. Reducing fat is not an excuse to feast on lots of sugary holiday treats. But if you want to eat a sugar cookie and drink a little low fat eggnog, or have a slice of fruitcake and some mulled cider, you can.

Make sure you compensate elsewhere; not by skipping meals, but by saying no to second helpings, by filling up with fruit and vegetables, and drinking plenty of water to aid digestion and keep you feeling full for longer.

And don't forget to exercise: a brisk walk, running up the stairs, skating with the kids, or a proper workout, will all help burn excess holiday calories.

Saltine Cracker Toffee

Toffee is one of those holiday treats everyone loves but it is full of fat. This recipe gives you the same great flavor of toffee but with a lot less fat. Its a lot easier to make and nearly impossbile to mess up!

Saltine Cracker Toffee
Ingredients:
1/4 pound (1 sleeve) saltine crackers
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup butter
1 cup dark brown sugar
3/4 cup chopped pecans

Directions:
Preheat oven to 400-degrees. Line cookie sheet with saltine crackers in a single layer.
In a saucepan combine the sugar and the butter. Bring to a boil and boil for 3 minutes. Immediately pour over Saltine Crackers and spread the mixture to cover the crackers completely.
Bake for 5 or 6 minutes. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips over the top and let sit for 5 minutes. Spread melted chocolate over all the crackers and sprinkle top with chopped pecan nuts. Cool completely (4 or more hours) and break into pieces

Success Story:

Shannon from Idaho called to say after losing 100 pounds in 1988, she wanted to keep the weight off. A friend recommended she started taking TG-2000 ADVANCE.

Now she has accomplished that goal of weight maintenance long term with the help of our TG-2000 ADVANCE. She feels it has made all the difference in her life.
"It's worth every penny!"

Sneak in Some Nutrients!

Here are ways to get some nutrients in your holiday treats with the use of dried fruits, nuts, spices, whole-grain cereals and even chocolate. Fruits and nuts are rich in antioxidants; cinnamon suppresses blood sugar spikes; chocolate may help your heart and your mood.

Avoid Stress While Eating:

When we are stressed, our digestion can be compromised, causing problems like colitis and heartburn. Avoid eating while working, driving, arguing, or watching TV (especially disturbing programs or the news). Try taking some deep breaths prior to beginning your meal, or light candles and play soothing music to create a relaxing atmosphere.

Holiday Eating a Little Wiser:

Keep portions moderate, especially high calorie food. In recent years serving sizes have ballooned, particularly in restaurants. Choose a starter instead of an entree,split a dish with a friend, and don't supersize ANYTHING!

Listen To Your Body:

Ask yourself if you are really hungry, and stop eating when you feel full, It actually takes a few minutes for your brain to tell your body that it has had enough food, so eat slowly.

Eating just enough to satisfy your hunger will help you remain alert, relaxed and feeling your best, rather than stuffing yourself into a "food coma'!

(If it's too late for you for this advice, i.e., Thanksgiving Dinner!!!, you can try this advice again...Tomorrow!)

Don't Be the Food Police.

You can enjoy your favorite sweets and fried foods in moderation, as long as they are an occasional part of your overall healthy diet. Food is a great source of pleasure, and pleasure is good for the heart--even if those French fries aren't!

Enjoy the Thanksgiving Holiday, with all that delicious food, in moderation of course, and get back on track...on Friday!

TG- 2000 ADVANCE can help to curb those food cravings, and give you the energy needed for the busy days ahead!

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us here at Natures BodyCare. We are truly grateful for each one of you; our customers and friends.

Eating Smart

Take time to chew your food:
Chew your food slowly savoring every bite. We tend to rush through our meals, forgetting to actually taste the flavors and feel the textures of what is in our mouths. Reconnect with the joy of eating.

Success Story:

Julie H. of Utah wrote today:

"I started taking TG-2000 ADVANCE about 2 months ago. I wanted to see if there was something that would help me lose weight without having to really change anything in my diet or routine. I have since lost 10 lbs without changing a thing.

I think if I changed my eating habits and exercised more, I would reallly see the weight come off. My husband just started taking TG-2000 ADVANCE about 4 weeks ago and he has already lost 5 lbs."
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Pumpkin Chip Muffins

These are a little more health conscious than your average muffin.

(Very tasty too with a '4 spoon' rating from Jamie our 'Titanium Chef')


1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup whole wheat flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup canned pumpkin
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup honey
1/3 cup water
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup miniature chocolate chips (optional)

FROSTING: 1 pkg. (8 ounce) lowfat cream cheese, softened
3 Tbsp. lowfat margarine, softened
1 tsp vanilla
2 cups confectioners sugar

DIRECTIONS: In a large bowl, combine first 7 ingredients.

• In another bowl combine the eggs, pumpkin, oil, honey and water; mix well.
• Stir wet ingredients into dry ingredients just until combined.
• Fold in walnuts and chocolate chips if desired.
• Fill greased or lined muffin cups 3/4 full.
• Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.

For frosting:

• In a small mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter and vanilla till fluffy.
• Gradually beat in the confectioners sugar until smooth.
• Frost cooled muffins.

Share YOUR Succes Story with our products! Email us at

www.customerservice@naturesbodycare.com

Success Story:

Kim from Wisconsin writes, "I have used TG 2000 for over a year now and have lost over 50 pounds! The high energy it gives me is a major plus as I no longer drag through each day. I will continue to use this product even after I get to my weight goal as it just keeps me going everyday. I loveTG 2000!"
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Healthy Minestrone Soup

This delicious recipe gets a 4 spoon rating from our test kitchen!

8 oz lite kielbasa or turkey sausage, cut in half lengthwise and sliced
1 small onion, diced
1/2 green bell pepper, diced
3 cloves of garlic, chopped
1 Tablespoon olive oil
4 cups water
3 chicken bouillon cubes
2 cups carrots diced
1 cup celery diced
2 (14.5 oz) cans Italian diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can cannellini or Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup dry farfalle (bowtie) pasta

Directions:
Brown sausage in bottom of soup pot. Remove and set aside. Add olive oil, onion, green pepper, and garlic to same pot, stirring to scrape up any brown bits from pot. (This deglazes the pan and will add great flavor) Cook on medium heat until onion and green pepper are tender. Add water, bouillon cubes, carrots and celery to pot. Bring to a boil and cook for 8-10 minutes or until carrots and celery begin to get tender. In a seperate saucepan bring water to boil for pasta. Salt water, add pasta and cook for about 5-7 minutes. You still want pasta to be somewhat firm, it will finish cooking in the soup. Add tomatoes and sausage to soup and reduce to simmer for 5-10 minutes. Add beans and pasta and simmer for 10 minutes or until ready to serve. Soup is even better reheated the next day!

Coming soon!

Nature's BodyCare healthy living blog where you will find up to the minute healthy, (and yummy) recipes that are easy to prepare, and weight loss tips and encouragement to help you reach your goals.

Exclusive to Nature's BodyCare is our very own Culinary Genius "Jamie the Titanium Chef" who will be bringing you irresistible recipes that will help you meet your weight loss goals, without sacrificing flavor.

More to come...