Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

The Protein Advantage Cookbook — A Delicious, Healthy New Cookbook

The Protein Advantage Cookbook is a collection of 100 high-protein, low-carb recipes and tips from bestselling author Carolyn Ketchum, the deservedly popular recipe developer and blogger behind All Day I Dream About Food. Ketchum’s newest cookbook blends quick weeknight meals with make-ahead basics and treats, wrapped in her pragmatic, low-carb approach, this time with a focus on high-protein recipes.

Its official launch date was yesterday, August 12, 2025, but I was lucky enough to get an advance review copy courtesy of the author and the publisher, Fair Winds Press (an imprint of Quarto). It’s a terrific cookbook for anyone interested in increasing their protein intake, and I’m delighted to share my review.

The Protein Advantage Cookbook by Carolyn Ketchum

Who It's For

This low carb, high protein cookbook is for anyone looking to improve their health through “weight loss, blood sugar management, building lean muscle mass, or simply having more energy for daily life” while eating delicious, easy to prepare, wholesome food.

Ketchum’s stance of prioritizing protein aligns with the current science: increasing protein intake can improve satiety and support lean mass, especially alongside resistance training. And for adults 40+, adequate protein becomes increasingly important.

What's Inside

Ketchum opens with a concise science and strategy overview, including what “protein-forward, low-carb” means, why prioritizing protein matters from a health perspective, and how to stock a high-protein, low-carb pantry with healthy, tasty ingredients.

True to its name, of course, the majority of The Protein Advantage Cookbook is devoted to the recipes. I was delighted to see Ketchum's signature format: clear, easy to follow, step-by-step instructions, lots of full-color photos (although not every recipe has a photo), and practical tips, such as for swapping ingredients or scaling portions.

The 100 recipes are organized into chapters with straightforward labels:

  • Breakfast
  • Breads and Muffins
  • Appetizers and Snacks
  • Soups and Salads
  • Main Dishes
  • Desserts
The Breakfast chapter includes 22 tasty recipes, such as Loaded Breakfast Casserole (29.5g of protein), Chocolate Protein Pancakes (19.7g of protein), Hot Maple Cereal (29.7g of protein), and Everything Bagel Smoked Salmon Toast (26.5g of protein).

    Loaded Breakfast Casserole recipe from The Protein Advantage Cookbook

    The Breads and Muffins chapter has 10 yummy high-protein recipes including Easy Protein Bagels (13.3g of protein), Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread (11g protein), Cheddar Jalapeño Biscuits (12.9g protein), and even Chocolate-Glazed Donuts (10g protein)!

    Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

    The Appetizers and Snacks chapter caters to both savory and sweet cravings, including 17 recipes such as Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms (12.8g protein), Taco Bites (18.7g protein), Frozen Hot Chocolate (17.6g protein) and Chocolate Hazelnut Spread (9.8g protein).

    Asian Chicken Noodle Soup recipe from The Protein Advantage Cookbook

    The Soups and Salads chapter features 13 simple yet satisfying recipes such as Asian Chicken Noodle Soup (31.1g protein), Chicken Chile Verde (35.3g protein), Turkey Club Salad (29.1g protein) and Old Bay Shrimp Salad (23.3g protein).

    Easy Steak Fajitas recipe from The Protein Advantage Cookbook

    The Main Dishes chapter contains 22 terrific recipes to suit a wide range of tastes, such as Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs (33.3g protein), Easy Steak Fajitas (25.2g protein), Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce (33.4g protein), and Teriyaki Salmon (30.2g protein).

    If you have a sweet tooth, never fear! Carolyn Ketchum is also the author of The Ultimate Guide to Keto Baking, and The Protein Advantage Cookbook includes 16 luscious desserts with a high-protein twist, such as Deep Dish Brownies (16g of protein), Lemon Cheesecake Bars (12.3g of protein), Coconut Candy Bars reminiscent of Mounds bars (10.4g of protein), and Strawberry Lemonade Ice Pops (10.1g of protein).

    There's also a chapter called "A Day in the Life" which chronicles what Ketchum ate over the course of a few typical days, along with the workouts she did on those days. As a very active, extremely fit woman, her calorie limits are much higher than mine, but it was still helpful to see how she incorporates the cookbook recipes into her daily meal plans.

    Why It Deserves a Place in Your Kitchen

    The Protein Advantage Cookbook delivers exactly what it promises: approachable, protein-centric low-carb recipes anchored in sensible nutrition guidance. For those of us who want to feel more satiated, lift heavier weights, or simply be stronger as we age, while eating delicious, nutritious food and without spending all day in the kitchen, this book will be an excellent, much-used addition to our cookbook collections.


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    Thursday, August 7, 2025

    Reviewing Simple Green Smoothies Book

    I hadn't been planning on buying a new smoothie book. I still had several from years past, and had even donated some of the ones I had to Goodwill.

    However, I had been trying to improve my nutrition. I usually had a couple of eggs sauteed with fresh spinach on most weekday mornings. I decided to cut down my egg intake; I have been trying to become more vegan for sometime now.

    I switched my egg ratio to one egg and upped my spinach amount. That first breakfast that I ate with my new ratio was transforming. Wow, I really enjoyed the extra taste of spinach compared to the egg. I wanted more spinach in my diet. And then the book, Simple Green Smoothies showed up on my radar.

    smoothie


    My local bookstore showed that they had one in stock, so I purchased that one. I was impressed. Two women told about how drinking a green smoothie a day had been transformative for them. They felt more energized throughout their day, had less cravings, and dropped off weight relative easily, after having made the switch, even if they ate some of their old ways for the rest of the day.

    It sounded too good to be true, but also hopeful.

    I had already had a couple of days of green smoothies before buying the book. Just winging it on whatever I wanted to put in it. And I liked them. And I saw it as a way to more easily get more greens into my diet.

    After I got the book, I started making some of the recipes from the book, Simple Green Smoothies. I liked that they were refreshing for the most part. I liked that the authors gave tips on how to switch things up; i.e. if you wanted them to be creamier, or have more protein, etc. I liked that this gave me more flexibility in how I wanted to approach my green smoothie making.

    The authors, Jen Hansard and Jadah Sellner, also give tips on why certain foods were combined; i.e. the combination of spinach with pineapple, helped with the absorption of both vitamins, A and C.

    I like how I have been progressing with my diet, since purchasing, reading, and practicing what I have read in this book, and recommend this book to anyone who is wanting to get more greens and or plants, or fresh plants into their diet.


    book


    Simple Green Smoothies book on Amazon. Check price.



    The earlier smoothie books that I had purchased, were more dessert like than being focused on nutrition; I was in a different place when I purchased the earlier ones compared to this one. Also, not all smoothie recipe books are alike. There can be different types of ingredients, i.e. some books were heavy on using protein powder as a main ingredient. I prefer fresh whole foods.

    Cheryl Paton





    Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


    Monday, August 4, 2025

    Reviewing Vicks VapoShower

    A few years ago I came across how to make shower steamers and I thought that sounds interesting, down a rabbit hole I went looking at shower steamers and imagining creating a lovely spa experience in my own bathroom with some - I just had to decide which ones.

    Reviewing Vicks VapoShower
    Vicks VapoShower Shower Tablets



    Imagine my surprise a few weeks later when I had a bad cold so my husband did a grocery shop and came home asking me if I had ever seen these tablet things that you put in a shower, I was so excited to see what he'd got me. I'm not going to lie when he showed me the box of Vicks VapoShower that he'd got I wasn't overly impressed as I had been thinking citrus or floral scents!

    His heart was in the right place though as a Vicks VapoShower with it's Eucalyptus, Menthol and Camphor scents was certainly a good idea to clear my sinuses. Now I think it's important to talk about Vicks and both mine and my husband's history with the brand before I review the shower steamers. I'll also let you know how easy they are to use.

    My husband used to always have Vicks VapoRub on his chest when he was younger and feeling sick and he loved it, I remember when we hadn't been married long and he had a bit of a cold he came to bed with some on his chest - I couldn't sleep with the smell as I found it way too strong. I have never been able to use the Chest Rub however I did used to use the Vicks nasal inhaler both when I was blocked up and also when I was flying. Vicks is actually really good, I just can't handle the smell for too long.

    When it comes to using these Shower Tablets (aka shower steamers), once you open the box you'll see all of the tablets individually wrapped. Simply cut off the top of the plastic wrapping and push the tablet out onto the floor of the shower (I choose to do this without touching them, personal preference). Once you turn the shower on the tablet with start to dissolve from the heat of the water and the fragrance will be released.

    So let's get back to reviewing the Vicks VapoShower tablets. The first time I tried them I got in the shower and couldn't smell anything, by the end of my shower I could smell it faintly and I found that it had definitely helped to clear my sinuses. A big yes from me, until my second time of using these.

    My second time of using Vicks VapoShower tablets I had a bad cold/flu, but it was more chest congestion and a bad cough - my sinuses weren't too bad. When I stepped in the shower I could smell the Vicks straightaway, I did cough a lot during my shower and it helped to break up the phlegm, but the smell was too overwhelming for me personally and I felt quite sick by the time my shower had finished. Did the Vicks help with breaking up the phlegm as I coughed or would that have happened with a hot shower alone? I don't know.

    In conclusion, for me I only use the Vicks VapoShower if I have very blocked sinuses and for this it works really well.

    Let's now talk about my husband - he loves Vicks VapoShower and does not find the smell overwhelming at all. If he has a cold or is feeling a little sniffly he will use one whether he's congested in his chest or sinuses and he swears it helps.

    I would definitely recommend them for anyone who finds Vicks VaporRub helpful. If you generally find Vicks VaporRub a little too over stimulating then try a Eucalyptus & Lavender or Tea Tree & Lemon shower steamer as they will still help but the smell won't be quite as over powering.



    Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


    Wednesday, July 16, 2025

    Clevr Blends Honey Pistachio Matcha SuperLatte: Delightful Hot or Cold

    I’ve never been a big fan of matcha. The distinctive grassy flavor reminds me a little too much of freshly mown lawn clippings. So, when I tried Clevr Blends’ Honey Pistachio Matcha SuperLatte after it was highly recommended by a friend, it was more out of curiosity than optimistic expectation. But this blend surprised me—in the best way.

    Smooth, subtly nutty, and lightly sweet, it’s easily the most enjoyable matcha I’ve tried. In fact, I liked it so much I’ve started keeping a pouch on hand for both cozy mornings and refreshing cold pick-me-ups.

    Here’s my honest review, including how I like to prepare it as both hot and iced matcha lattes.

    The Most Delicious Honey Pistachio Matcha Latte with Superfoods

    A Delicious, Indulgent-Tasting Treat

    The taste of this matcha latte is surprisingly delicious. The matcha is smooth and mellow, not grassy or bitter. The honey and pistachio notes shine through, adding warmth and a slightly nutty sweetness. The added honey and milk make it even more comforting and balanced. It feels like an indulgent treat. The added superfoods and antioxidants are a bonus!

    The iced version is light, smooth, and refreshing, with just the right amount of sweetness. The pistachio flavor seems to come forward more when iced, which I love, and the honey note lingers without being too sweet. It’s the kind of drink I could sip all summer long: satisfying but not heavy.

    The bright green color was a bit startling at first, but it's much prettier in person than on the screen!

    The Superfoods Bonus

    The Honey Pistachio Matcha SuperLatte from Clevr Blends isn’t your typical matcha drink. It’s a creamy, plant-based latte mix that blends:

    • Organic Japanese matcha (ceremonial grade, but without the overpowering grassy bite)
    • Oat and pistachio milk powders for creaminess
    • Real honey for natural sweetness
    • Ashwagandha, lion’s mane, and reishi for focus and calm
    • L-theanine to smooth out energy without jitters (this honey pistachio matcha latte with superfoods has 45 mg of caffeine, about half the amount you would find in a cup of coffee)

    It’s dairy-free, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free, with functional ingredients that support focus, mood, and a sense of balance. And while it's definitely not keto, it's fairly low carb.

    But you don't have to drink it for the superfoods benefits. You can just drink it because it's flat-out delicious!

    Making Hot Honey Pistachio Matcha SuperLatte

    I add 3 tablespoons of the powder to 6–8 ounces of hot water (not boiling). Then I stir in a small squirt of honey (I use monk fruit-sweetened sugar-free honey), add a splash of unsweetened macadamia or almond milk, and froth it all together until smooth and frothy.

    Ingredients for Iced Clevr Blends Honey Pistachio Matcha SuperLatte

    Making Iced Honey Pistachio Matcha SuperLatte

    I use an electric frother to dissolve 3 tablespoons of the powder in 4 ounces of warm water with a squirt of honey (or monk fruit honey) and a splash of unsweetened macadamia or almond milk until the mixture is very frothy. Then I pour it over a tall (16-ounce) glass filled with ice cubes.

    By the way, the best frother I have ever tried is the one in these photos, the Nahida Coffee Milk Frother Wand, which is powerful, has three speeds, dedicated buttons for each speed, and holds a charge longer than any other frother my husband and I have tried.

    Two glasses of iced Clevr Blends Honey Pistachio Matcha SuperLatte
    Why I Keep Reaching for It

    As someone who’s never cared for matcha, Clevr Blends Honey Pistachio Matcha SuperLatte really changed my mind. It gives me a gentle, steady lift without the crash I sometimes get from coffee. And I love that it includes adaptogens like ashwagandha and lion’s mane for added stress support and focus. It feels like a small act of self-care, easy to make, enjoyable to sip, and supportive from the inside out.

    Pros & Considerations

    Pros:

    • Smooth, mellow matcha flavor (even for matcha skeptics!)
    • Honey and pistachio notes are well-balanced and comforting
    • Easy to prepare hot or iced
    • Adaptogens and L-theanine support focus and calm
    • Dairy-free and refined sugar-free

    Considerations:

    • A bit pricey per serving (but worth it for the quality)
    • Some may want to add extra sweetener or milk to customize the flavor, as I do

    Final Thoughts

    If you’ve avoided matcha because of its grassy flavor, this SuperLatte might just change your mind. The Honey Pistachio Matcha from Clevr Blends is smooth, lightly sweet, and surprisingly crave-worthy. With its clean ingredients and nourishing benefits, it’s become a go-to in my kitchen.

    Not a matcha lover? Neither was I. But this superfoods-infused Clevr Blends matcha latte made me a believer.

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    Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


    Thursday, July 3, 2025

    Hand Weights Dumbbells Review

    When I purchased my first set of hand weights, quite a few years ago, I had no idea of how many I would come to own, or that I would develop any kind of preference.

    hand weights


    My first two dumbbell set were one pound each. Today, I would recommend, if you got some full water bottles around, go with them. See if you like them and if it is something you want to keep doing.

    However, one pound weights can come in handy if you want something light weight to carry, to burn some extra calories, when out for a walk.

    Other than that, I would say that two pound weights would be a good place for beginners to start. At least, that is my preference, your starting place will depend on what works for you and where you are in your fitness journey.

    The other preference that I developed, is the texture of the dumbbells. My first ones were coated with a smooth type surface. I really didn't mind that. But as I advanced to wanting heavier weights, I purchased ones with a rougher type coating, which are rated as non-slip. I felt I had a better grip with those.

    I never was inclined to buy the dark gray or black weights, no matter their coating; so I can't speak for those. This girl likes colors and finds them more motivational.

    When I purchased my first set of hand weights, I may have purchased just the one pounders; I'm not sure. A thing to consider is once one knows that they are going to go forward with lifting weights, is that different weights can be better for working different sets of muscle groups.

    For instance, I can easily handle heavier weights when doing arm curls. (Lifting the weights from a down position, and bringing my hands upward, making a 90 degree angle with my elbows, or lifting them even higher from that position.) But when I work my forearm muscles, like when lifting the weights from a down position and forearms upward and out to the sides or upward to the front, I want a lighter weight. Some muscle groups will already tend to be stronger than other muscle groups, and different weights will be more appropriate for the muscle group that one is currently working on at that given time.

    I currently own seven different weight sets, and would have never thought that I would fill a rack that would hold more than three sets. I'm glad that I didn't purchase a small rack early on. I simply found a place off to the side to place my weights, mainly near or on the lower part of the cat tree, lol!

    I'm glad that I ended up getting a larger dumbbell rack, because it was something I knew that I was sticking with by then, and that I had become more educated on needing and wanting different weight sets, and on my preferences.

    If you are considering purchasing a rack for weights, that has the option of coming with weights, be sure to consider the texture of the dumbbells that you want, and whether or not they come in the color(s) that you like. Also consider the weight spread in between the weights. Some weights in these multiple weight sets, may only be two pounds apart, and some three pounds or more. Consider your ability, and allow yourself to grow into your weights, and decide what will work best for you.

    For me, a two pound difference is plenty enough, at least for now.

    My husband did have an old type set of weights, many years ago. With those, one had to add or remove weights from the handles. If one is limited on space, this may be a space saver. However, I found the time of changing the weight ends rather annoying.

    I do have some smaller weights with a space for your fingers to slide through; I prefer having the open space to easily put my fingers around. They might however serve better for other purposes. I saw that Pilates was mentioned for some of these styles.

    One last thing to consider is the shape of the ends of the weight, whether they are round, or hexagon in shape. The round ones can roll. I like knowing that my hand weights will stay steady when I place them on the floor, etc. I've seen people do elevated planks, holding onto hand weights that were placed on the floor. One definitely needs a steady set for that.

    There you have it. If you're ready to to check out hand weight options, here is the general link to them on Amazon. Hand weights on Amazon. I don't own any one certain brand, I just have my preferences on texture, end shape, and weight spread between the weights that I purchase.

    On one final note, I have stayed more steady with using weights now that I am older than when I was younger. I find that my back is stronger and that I can do more things now than I could before. I also listen to my body, and move up to the next weight as I see fit.

    Happy fitness journey to you.

    If you're interested in the weight lifting exercises that I have been following, you can check out my blog on 8 Minutes in the Morning.https://www.reviewthisreviews.com/2025/05/8-minutes-in-morning-book-review.html

    Update:

    For those wondering what weight they should get, it will depend on a variety of factors. One thing to consider is the amount of weight one is already used to picking up and or carrying.

    Many of us are already used to picking up a variety of different weight amounts when we shop for groceries, etc. However, when exercising, one will be doing repetitions. What I read as a recommendation, is that if one can easily do 12 repetitions in a row with a hand weight, that it is too light for your stronger muscles, but may be suitable for your smaller muscles.

    According to Jorge Cruise, from 8 Minutes in the Morning, It's good to have three sets of weights. Cruise's recommendation for repetitions is 12. He has two different exercises that he shows for each day, that you alternate through for a total of four sets. Also, as your muscles get stronger, instead of increasing repetitions, it is better to increase the weight amount.

    Cheryl Paton



    Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


    Wednesday, July 2, 2025

    You Will Love These Moist, Delicious, Low Sugar Protein Brownies

    A delicious brownie that treats your tastebuds and supports your wellness goals? Yes, please.

    As someone who prioritizes health without sacrificing enjoyment, I’m always on the lookout for snacks and desserts that feel indulgent but support my body, especially my skin, joints, and energy. So when I came across Prime Bites Protein Brownies, I was intrigued. A brownie with 19 grams of protein, 5 grams of collagen, a moist, fudgy texture and fairly low in added sugars? That definitely caught my attention.

    After trying several flavors and incorporating them into my daily routine, I’m ready to share my honest thoughts. Here's my product review.

    The Best Moist, Delicious, Low Sugar Protein Brownies

    What Are Prime Bites Protein Brownies?

    Prime Bites are individually wrapped high-protein brownies created by Alpha Prime. Each brownie is:

    • Generously sized (my husband and I sometimes split one)
    • Packed with 19g of whey protein
    • Enriched with 5g of collagen
    • Low in added sugars, sweetened using a blend of erythritol and other sweeteners
    • Around 200–240 calories, depending on the flavor
    • Available in fun dessert-inspired flavors: As of this writing (July 2, 2025), the flavor choices are:
      • Peanut Butter Candy Crunch
      • Glazed Cinnamon Roll
      • Glazed Chocolate Donut
      • Chocolate Cookie Monster
      • Cookies & Cream Blondie
      • Banana Nut
      • Cookie Dough
      • Blueberry Cobbler
      • Birthday Cake Blondie
      • Red Velvet
      • PB&J
      • Variety Pack
    • Crafted in small batches in the company's Miami bakery for quality control
    • Absolutely delicious!

    These aren’t dry, chalky protein bars pretending to be brownies. They’re surprisingly soft and satisfying.

    3 boxes of Prime Bites Protein Brownies

    What I Love About These Protein Brownies

    Excellent Texture and Flavor

    I was honestly surprised by how moist and rich these brownies are. (They're even better after a quick 10-second warm-up in the microwave.) The texture is soft and slightly dense, much like a traditional fudge brownie. My husband and I have enjoyed all the flavors we have tried so far: Glazed Chocolate Donut, Chocolate Cookie Monster, Banana Nut, Cookie Dough, and Red Velvet brownies. (The Banana Nut isn't quite as indulgent as the other flavors we've tried.)

    These taste like indulgent bakery treats, minus the sugar crash. They’re especially good when you’re craving something comforting but want to stay on track.

    Packed With Protein and Collagen 

    Getting enough protein, especially as we age and lose muscle, can be a challenge. The combination of whey protein and collagen makes these brownies more than just a snack; they’re also nutritionally beneficial. I love knowing that I’m supporting my skin, joints, and lean muscle while indulging in something that tastes like dessert.

    For those of us over 50, this collagen boost is especially welcome, since natural collagen production declines with age and affects everything from skin firmness, hair health and nail health to bone health.

    Portability and Convenience

    Each brownie is individually wrapped, which makes it easy to throw one into a handbag, gym bag, or even your car’s center console for a mid-day boost. They don’t melt or crumble, and they are much more delicious and feel more satisfying than typical protein bars.

    A Few Things to Consider

    Flavor Preferences Vary

    Some flavors lean sweeter than others, and a few have a noticeable sugar-alcohol aftertaste. If you're sensitive to erythritol or similar sweeteners, you might want to sample one or two before buying a full box.

    Not Budget-Friendly

    These come in boxes of 12 individually wrapped protein brownies. At around $3–$3.50 per brownie, these are on the pricier side, but you are paying for high-quality protein, added collagen, and convenience, as well as supporting a small business. 

    I try to wait for a promo code or sale and stock up on the flavors we love.

    Four flavors of individually wrapped Prime Bites Protein Brownies

    Nutrition Snapshot

    Per brownie (approximate):

    • Calories: 200–240
    • Protein: 19g
    • Collagen: 5g
    • Added Sugar: ~4–11g
    • Net Carbs: 7–14g (varies by flavor)
    • Sweeteners: Erythritol, allulose, and others

    Where to Buy

    I find the best promos are usually directly from the brand's website, where you can also create a custom assortment box with four flavors of your choice. You can also order the Brownie Variety Pack that includes all the flavors for you to try.

    I love these brownies (and the brand new muffins) so much that I became an affiliate partner. You can save 15% when you order Prime Bites Protein Brownies through my affiliate link. 

    If you prefer to order Prime Bites Protein Brownies on Amazon, you can. You can also sign up for a Subscribe & Save subscription on Amazon. 

    Final Thoughts

    I’ve tried dozens of high protein snacks and desserts over the years, and most have been too dry, too chalky, lacking in taste, texture, or both. But Prime Bites Protein Brownies stand out. They satisfy my sweet tooth, deliver meaningful nutrition, and support my healthy aging goals with that bonus dose of collagen.

    If you're looking for a protein-rich treat that aligns with your skincare and wellness routine, these are absolutely worth trying—especially when you want a little indulgence without the guilt.


    You Will Love These Moist, Delicious, Low Sugar Protein Brownies by Margaret Schindel


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    Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


    Tuesday, June 24, 2025

    Reviewing Uses, Benefits And Disadvantages Of Insulated Water Bottles

    Two insulated water bottles, one blue, one silver

    Before a recent trip to a major city  we went on we decided to buy a couple of insulated water bottles. We knew it would be warm and we had a lot of walking to do. We did not want to keep buying plastic water bottles, partly for environmental reasons and partly due to the expense. 

    Although the water bottles we purchased were far more expensive than a single plastic water bottle, we knew the cost of single plastic bottles would mount up and we would use these insulated water bottles for many reasons not just this one trip. 

    In addition we were fed up with plastic water bottles becoming a not very nice rather warm tepid drink within a short period of time and often leaking.

    It is so important to keep hydrated in the summer heat we felt it was a worthwhile investment. Now I have experienced travel with one of these insulated water bottles I would never be without one and feel they are an everyday essential for just about everyone. 

    For us they were a real game changer and helped us to feel much more comfortable and hydrated. We bought two of the 750 ml ones in different colours and it was one of our best purchases. 

    The reason these insulated water bottles are so good is that they use double walled vacuum insulation to keep the drinks at the right temperature for many hours. Some models including the one we bought keep cold drinks cold and fresh for up to 24 hours, and hot drinks hot for up to 12 hours. Different models will have different times for hot and cold liquids so do be careful to check that out.

    They come in a range of sizes from small ones that can be carried easily to big one litre ones for a long trip and other in between options. We found the 75 litre size perfect for our days out. There was no strange taste or smell and it all was just fresh cold water and thirst quenching.

    A tip is to fill with water then put in the fridge for a while to have really cold water for your trip or day out. However it is not advised to have freezing cold water as it can upset your stomach, just cold water is best. 


    Two water bottles, blue one standing, silver on on its side.


    Ideas How To Use Insulated Water Bottles.

    These insulated water bottles are incredibly versatile and since we have owned them have far more uses than I initially thought. 

    For City sightseeing trips like ours they are invaluable. Walking for miles and needing regular drinks, these water bottles were fantastic! We added rehydration sachets as well to maximise the benefits of the cool fresh water and sometimes lemon.  We saved a small fortune on city centre cafe visits and found many places to fill them up.

    For more serious hiking, biking or camping trips and long nature reserve walks where hydration is important. The size to choose will depend on the length of time you are out, the weather,  and how comfortable you are carrying the size and weight of the bottle. 

    Fill it with cool water for exercise in the gym, running, yoga, Pilates or spin class to rehydrate. It is useful to add rehydration sachets to the water to help you as well. 

    On family trips out each family member can have their own individual drink in smaller sizes, maybe each person has a different colour. Alternatively, the family or couple can share a larger size bottle.

    Keeping one with you when gardening to keep hydrated or have a lovely coffee, tea or hot chocolate just when you feel like it without having to go inside. This is great for me as an avid gardener I can now stay outside all the time and I do not need to go inside to make a drink! Also as it is sealed, unlike a glass or mug of water you wont get any stray insects in it!

    Take hot tea, coffee or fresh cold water with you on your journey to work and for use while at work. For people who work outdoors, it would be a very handy way to hydrate and have good hot drinks available just when you need them.

    Very good for keeping fresh cold  water or hot lemon drink by your bed when feeling poorly or post operation, as it is important to keep hydrated and also for taking medication. No need to keep getting up to make drinks when you don't feel like it, or bothering someone else.

    Keep one bottle by your bed at night, filled with water,  in case you wake up thirsty, which I often do, when the weather is very hot or humid. The water is much fresher than when it is just in an open glass. 

    Older people often do not drink enough water to keep hydrated. If they have one of these it is easier for them or carers to monitor how much they are drinking. It is easier to drink more when a bottle is by your side than having to keep getting up to get water or make a drink.  

    Take one for long train, bus or car journeys and have your hot or cold drink just as fresh as you made it. I once ran out of water on a long train journey in the summer heat and I do not recommend it, I felt quite poorly as I was dehydrated and so since then always make sure I have more than enough water with me. 

     


     POWCAN 40 oz Insulated Water Bottle with 2-in-1 Straw and Spout Lid, Keep Cold 24H, Leak-Proof, BPA-Free, Double Wall StainlessCheck Price


    Benefits Of Insulated Water Bottles

    • They keep drinks cold or hot for hours which is a major benefit and one of the main reasons I wanted buy one. I love this feature as I dislike lukewarm water or a just about cold coffee. It is a lovely thing to have a refreshing cold drink several hours after you have made it or a nice hot coffee or tea halfway through the day. So great for both warmer and colder months. 
    • A huge advantage is that many of them and the ones we bought are leakproof. This was my second reason for buying one. Ours have a guarantee against leaks which is a big plus for me. I once had a plastic water bottle that leaked all over on a bus which was embarrassing and then meant I had no water for my rather hot journey. I would certainly choose one that is leakproof. 
    • You can also  make your drink exactly how you like it. For example I like water with a hint of lemon. I like my coffee milky. Most coffee shops make it too strong for me. My husband likes coffee strong but not sweet. So we can now customise our drinks the way we want them and have a bottle each. 
    • They are perfect for rehydration for travel and days out, exercise and illness.
    • Insulated water bottles are better than constantly buying plastic water bottles then discarding them. Or filling a plastic bottle repeatedly and risking leaks as the plastic weakens or the top seal fails. Instead we can just refill these insulated water bottles helping to reduce plastic use overall and is in time cost effective.
    • In addition most insulated water bottles are made from stainless steel, which makes them strong, though do check individual models and makes for exact construction.
    • There are a variety of useful sizes to choose from. From small bottles perhaps for exercise use, medium sized for carrying around sightseeing all day, to large flasks for long hot days or sickness, we can choose the best for us and our needs.
    • While certainly more expensive than a plastic bottle or take away coffee initially,  over a short period of time you will more than recoup that cost by making your own drinks and using this flask.
    • These insulated water bottles are available in a good choice of colours and designs to suit most needs and styles. We found it useful to have one colour for water and one colour for coffee. Or one colour for each of our different coffee preferences. Ours came available in silver, blue, green, black or white and there are a wide range of colours to choose from in most brands. 
    • They are easy to clean. We just clean ours manually in the sink.


     Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw, BPA-Free Sports Water Bottle, Great for Travel, 24 Oz, Camo CoolCheck Price


    Disadvantages Of Insulated Water Bottles

    • Insulated water bottles are significantly more expensive than plastic bottles. However we find the cost recouped really quite quickly once we no longer needed to buy plastic water bottles or so many cafe visits. On our one week trip with them we already saved most if not all of the cost than if we had bought the same volume of water in plastic bottles. 
    • They can be heavier and take up a bit more space in a bag or rucksack than a plastic bottle. However on our city break trip and nature walks we have not found this an issue.
    • The bottles are generally opaque so you cannot see from the outside how much of the drink you have left before opening them. We found that you can get an idea by the weight though quite quickly once you are used to them. 
    • If you are going to want to refill them often when out and about be careful which size you choose. With our 750ml bottles we found that we could refill them at most water filling points. However, there were some we could not fit the bottle underneath. So if that is a concern perhaps take one smaller bottle to use alongside a larger one in those circumstances or just the smaller bottles.  
    • It is important to clean thoroughly after containing tea or coffee.


    However for us these insulated water bottles have been wonderful and made life so much easier! A few minor issues are not important compared to the major advantages and now I would absolutely never be without one or two. 

     TOURIT 32 oz Insulated Water Bottle, Stainless Steel Bottle With Straw, Double Wall Vacuum Insulation for Cold and Hot DrinksCheck Price


    So in summary, we think these insulated water bottles are a great find for us and for many people. They look nice and stylish and have a good range of colours to choose from. The size choice is good from small to very large. Many carry a good guarantee against leaks  as well which was important to us. Once bought you will never need to buy plastic throw away water bottles anymore or take away coffees, so you will easily recoup the money spent. As always read the details about each brand carefully and choose based on your own needs and activities.


     BJPKPK Insulated Water Bottles, 18 oz Stainless Steel Metal Water Bottle with Strap, BPA Free Leak Proof ThermosCheck Price


    Finally these would make a lovely thoughtful gift for just about anyone. Especially for a birthday or Christmas present and would also be a thoughtful gift for someone starting work who has a commute, exercising regularly,  someone going travelling, a gardener or an older person, to name a few.


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    Reviewing Uses, Benefits And Disadvantages Of Insulated Water Bottles by Raintree Annie





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    Monday, June 16, 2025

    LifePro Waver Whole Body Vibration Plate Review

    Two months ago, I purchased the LifePro Waver Whole Body Vibration Plate with a great deal of skepticism. But I am struggling with my health and have been desperate to find some relief. Much to my surprise, it does provide relief.  I look forward to using my LifePro every night after work. I haven't found a cure for my pain and problems but I am sleeping better. I feel as though I've had a mini-massage in the comfort of my home each evening. That alone is worth the investment in the LifePro Waver.

    image with text LifePro Waver Whole Body Vibration


    Important:  I am not giving medical advice. Even if I wanted to, I wouldn't. I am not able to figure out my own health so I would not try to advise you about yours. Please do your own research about the claims made related to health and whole body vibration.

    I kept seeing ads for various types of  whole body vibration machines. They all make claims about helping lymphatic drainage, improving bone density and muscle strength. They make claims about reducing inflammation and body fat. I found it extremely hard to believe these claims. But I was intrigued by the claim of improving balance.

    Over the decades, I have seen physical therapists help children with balance problems. Sometimes that includes standing on things that are soft or things that move. Somehow, that helps the children's bodies strengthen and learn to balance. I have become very concerned about my balance difficulties after recently falling and smashing my head on the arm of the sofa. When I saw that the LifePro Waver Vibration Plate moves up and down, alternating side-to-side, I decided to give this vibration plate a try. 

    LifePro Waver Vibration Plate information

    • Motor Type: Oscillation
    • Hz & Amplitude: 4hz - 12hz and 0 - 10 mm
    • Measurements and weight: 30.5" x 15.3" x 5.8" and 31 lbs
    • Claims: Lymphatic Drainage, Decrease Aches & Pains, Balance Training
    • Weight Limit: 330 lbs
    • Includes: resistance bands, power cord, remote control, waver vibration plate, LifePro mini bands
    • Current ratings on Amazon: 26,000+ reviews totaling 4.6 out of 5 stars

    The premise is that you sit or stand on the machine and run it for 15 minutes (or more).  You can change the vibration from very light to harder and the remote control makes this easy when you are standing on the machine.

    I have read studies that reportedly prove some health benefits. I did not take the time to delve into the studies to look at the reliability of the study and/or whether the research was done by a neutral party. I do know that I have felt decreased stiffness and increased range of motion after 15 minutes of vibration.  I look forward to sitting or standing on the LifePro and I sleep better after those 15 minutes. I can't say whether or not my balance has improved but I am very aware that my balance hasn't worsened. 

    I have an undiagnosed health problem that runs in my family that includes joint pain, balance problems, muscle weakness, muscle spasms, neuropathy, and proprioception problems. I am always looking for relief. Despite my skepticism about the claims made about this machine, it has been a very good investment.  I seems counter-intuitive to me that vibration would help relieve neuropathy. But it does. Just sleeping better at night is a pretty big deal and makes this machine worth it to me. One final thought. I don't think I would recommend a vibration plate that doesn't oscillate. I don't know how, but I think that oscillating movement is important. 

    LifePro website

    LifePro Store on Amazon 




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    Tuesday, June 10, 2025

    Premier Protein Drink Review

     Do you consume enough protein in your diet? I know that I don't get enough throughout the day. I use Premier Protein Drink as a supplement.

    Premier Protein Drink Review

    How Much Protein Should You Have Per Day?

    The amount of protein depends on your activity and body weight. 

    Below is what I found from the Mayo Clinic Health System

    If you're an average adult.
    The recommended dietary allowance to prevent deficiency for an average sedentary adult is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight. For example, a person who weighs 165 pounds, or 75 kilograms, should consume 60 grams of protein per day.

    The Healthiest Protein Options Include:

    • Egg Whites
    • Fish and seafood
    • Lean meats (skinless, white-meat chicken or turkey)
    • Low-fat dairy
    • Soy, nuts, seeds, beans, and lentils
    According to the Mayo Clinic Health System, you should always try to meet your daily requirements with these whole foods instead of supplements.

    After checking with my doctor and getting his okay to use a protein supplement, we found Premier Protein Drink at our local grocery store.

    Premier Protein drinks come in a variety of flavors like Chocolate, Vanilla, Caramel, Cookies & Cream, and other limited edition flavors. Each bottle is compact, easy to carry, and requires no refrigeration until it is opened.

    Here are the Nutritional Stats:

    • 30g of protein per serving
    • Only 160 calories
    • Just 1g of sugar
    • Low fat
    • Includes 24 vitamins and minerals
    I don't use these to replace a meal, I drink 3 or 4 per week after a light lunch.

    If you want to use a protein supplement, the Mayo Clinic recommends:

    • 2 grams or less of saturated fat
    • 5 grams of sugar or less
    • 200 or fewer calories
    • No trans fat or partially hydrogenated oils
    The Premier Protein Drinks checks all of the above boxes.

    Unlike other protein drinks that can taste chalky or artificial, I like the smooth and creamy taste of Premier Protein. I have tried several different flavors, but I always go back to my favorite, chocolate.

    Always check with your doctor before using a protein supplement to ensure it's right for you.

    For more Product Reviews, click here: ReviewThisProductReviews.com

    You can find a large selection on Amazon if you can't find Premier Protein Drinks in your local grocery store.


    Premier Protein High Protein Shakes Variety Sampler Pack Vanilla 11 Fl. Oz Each (18pk)Premier Protein High Protein Shakes Variety Sampler Pack Vanilla 11 Fl. Oz Each (18pk)Check the Price

     




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