EZ Melts Health Blog

Reading Time: 3 minutes Have you ever wondered why enjoying a glass of red wine from time to time is often touted as heart-healthy? One reason is it might be one of the natural sources of resveratrol, a compound being touted for its potential health properties.  Let's dive into what makes this molecule so intriguing and how getting more of it in supplement form could be beneficial to you. What is Resveratrol? Resveratrol is a polyphenol, a type of compound found in plants. It's most famously present in red wine and grape skins as mentioned above, but you can also find it in peanuts, blueberries, and dark chocolate.  Plants produce it as a defense mechanism against stress and damage, and interestingly, research on resveratrol shows it seems to have protective effects in humans too. How Does Resveratrol Work? At its core, resveratrol appears to be a cellular multitasker. It interacts with various proteins and enzymes in our bodies, potentially influencing multiple health-promoting pathways.  Resveratrol acts like a key that turns on special proteins called sirtuins, which are often dubbed "longevity genes”. These proteins play roles in our cellular health and aging processes.  Think of sirtuins as cellular maintenance workers - they help repair damage, regulate energy use, and may even slow down aging processes.  Anti-Aging Potential While we can't turn back the clock, resveratrol might help slow its ticking: Antioxidant power: Resveratrol may encourage the body to destroy free radicals—unstable molecules from our enviornment that can damage cells and contribute to aging. Cellular health: It may help manage senescent cells - old cells that can cause inflammation and tissue dysfunction. DNA protection: Some studies suggest resveratrol might help promote DNA health, a key factor in aging. Heart Health Support Your heart might just love resveratrol as much as it loves exercise: Blood pressure: Resveratrol can encourage blood vessels to relax, potentially supporting a healthy blood pressure. Cholesterol balance: It promotes healthy cholesterol levels, particularly by supporting "good" HDL cholesterol. Arterial health: Resveratrol promoting good circulation by supporting the flexibility and longevity of arteries. Promote Brain Health Keeping our minds sharp is a top priority, and resveratrol might lend a hand: Neuroprotection: It may support brain cells in their fight against oxidative stress and inflammation. Blood flow: By supporting healthy blood vessels, resveratrol might promote healthy blood flow to the brain. Cognitive function: Some studies suggest it could help maintain cognitive function as we age. Assists Immune System  A robust immune system is crucial, and resveratrol seems to be on our side: Immune cell support: It may support the function of various immune cells and their response to threats to your health. Inflammation balance: Resveratrol appears to promote a balanced inflammatory response, crucial for overall immune health. Conclusion Most studies on resveratrol have been done in labs or on animals, so we're still learning about its effects in humans. Also, the amounts used in studies are often higher than what you'd get from food alone, which is why some people consider taking resveratrol supplements. If you're intrigued by resveratrol, consider talking to your healthcare provider. They can help you understand if it might be beneficial for you and how to incorporate it safely into your routine.

Reading Time: 3 minutes Ubiquinol isn't just a mouthful to say; it's a powerhouse compound buzzing with activity in nearly every cell of our bodies.  Ubiquinol is a naturally produced compound found to be an energy booster and superhero antioxidant. It's at the heart of turning our food into fuel, helping to create adenosine triphosphate (ATP) - our cells' VIP energy source. But here's a twist: as we age, our bodies produce less ubiquinol. To maintain high energy levels and ensure our cells thrive, adding ubiquinol supplements to our regimen can be an absolute game changer.  Here's more info so you can see for yourself why more and more people are adding ubiquinol to their daily routine. What is Ubiquinol? Ubiquinol is a natural compound that our bodies produce, especially in key places like the heart, liver, kidney, and pancreas, but as mentioned our bodies make less and less as we age. People aged 40 and above are shown to make significantly less.  In its most basic form, Ubiquinol is an electron-rich version of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a compound commonly known for its connection to heart health. Upon consumption, our bodies convert CoQ10 into the active form of ubiquinol, which then gets to work on keeping us energized and protected. Ubiquinol is preferred because it doesn't need to be converted by the body when we take it, however, a CoQ10 supplement is still effective. Health Benefits of Ubiquinol Ubiquinol's believed health benefits are many, and research suggests it could play a role in the following: Cardiovascular Health Ubiquinol has been shown to support heart health, healthy blood pressure levels, and promote regular energy production in heart muscles. Energy Levels Since ubiquinol is naturally involved in generating energy within the cells, supplementing with it may support energy levels, especially in individuals with declining levels of CoQ10. Aging Oxidative stress is a leading cause of aging. Ubiquinol however is linked to optimal skin health and may lead to reduced negative effects from free radicals in the environment. Nerve Health Ubiquinol may be connected to promoting nerve health. Its neuroprotective properties support the health and function of brain and nerve cells, which is crucial for cognitive health. Immune Function Ubiquinol promotes a strong immune system response in the body. A healthy immune system defends cells against oxidative damage and inflammation, as well as fights back against common illnesses and infections. How to Take Ubiquinol Ubiquinol supplements are available in different forms like soft gels, oral sprays, and liquids. The right dose for you might depend on your age, how healthy you are, and what you specifically need. So, it's a good idea to have a chat with a healthcare professional to figure out the best amount for you. As a general guideline, most people start with 50-200 mg daily. Some may need as much as 600-1200 mg daily to get their CoQ10 levels up to an optimal range. When it comes to dosage, keep in mind that the best practice is to gradually increase the amount over a few weeks until you reach your desired level. Additionally, it's important to take ubiquinol with a meal or some type of fat source to improve its absorption and bioavailability. This is because ubiquinol is a fat-soluble compound, meaning it needs fat for optimal absorption. Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure that there are no potential interactions with medications or preexisting conditions. Choosing the Right Form Depending on your preferences and needs, you can choose between soft gels, oral sprays or liquids. Soft gels are convenient for those who prefer to swallow pills, while oral sprays and liquids are easier to take for individuals who have difficulty swallowing. It's important to note that the active form of CoQ10, ubiquinol, is not affected by stomach acid so it can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with a meal has been shown to improve absorption. Ubiquinol-Rich Foods While the body naturally produces ubiquinol, levels can decrease with age or due to certain health conditions. Fortunately, certain foods are rich in CoQ10 and can enhance your ubiquinol levels: Fatty fish like salmon and tuna Organ meats such as liver Whole grains Spinach and broccoli Nuts and seeds Conclusion To maximize the benefits of ubiquinol, it's advisable to combine dietary sources with supplementation, especially if you fall within the categories more susceptible to low CoQ10 levels—such as the elderly or those with specific health concerns. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, a busy professional, or someone interested in preventive health care, ubiquinol could be the key to unlocking a revitalized, energetic you.

Reading Time: 3 minutes Your heart is your body's central powerhouse. When our hearts are healthy and working at full capacity, we feel strong and energized because it's supplying us with oxygen and nutrients by pumping blood to our entire body. Keeping our hearts happy and healthy is essential for overall well-being, and diet plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of our hearts. The right foods can strengthen your heart and reduce your risk of cardiovascular diseases, while the wrong ones can have the opposite effect.  Unfortunately, the American diet leaves a lot of room for improvement when it comes to keeping our hearts healthy. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 647,000 Americans die from heart disease each year – that’s 1 in every 4 deaths. The good news is that the risk of cardiovascular disease can be significantly lowered with the right nutrition. In this blog post, we'll share with you the 10 best foods that are good for your heart and why they're so beneficial. Fatty Fish Fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that lower blood pressure, prevent blood clots, and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Aim for two servings of fatty fish per week to reap the benefits. Leafy Greens Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and improve circulation. Steam, sauté, or blend them into smoothies for a heart-healthy boost. Berries Berries like blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are rich in antioxidants that reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and protect against heart disease. Enjoy them as a snack, in smoothies, or as toppings for yogurt and oatmeal. If you want to eat seasonal foods like berries year-round, consider freezing them so you can use them later. Nuts and Seeds Nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are high in fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants that improve cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease. Incorporate them into your meals and snacks for a crunchy, nutritious boost. Whole Grains Whole grains like oats, brown rice, and quinoa are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support heart health by reducing inflammation, lowering cholesterol levels, and regulating blood sugar. Swap refined grains for whole grains to reap the heart-healthy benefits. Legumes Legumes like beans, lentils, and chickpeas are high in protein, fiber, and nutrients that lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, and improve blood sugar control. Add them to soups, salads, or as a side dish for a delicious and heart-healthy meal. Avocados  Avocados are a good source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that improve cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of heart disease. Use it as a spread, dip, or topping for salads and sandwiches. Tomatoes Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that is associated with reduced inflammation, improves circulation, and protects against heart disease.  Enjoy them fresh, cooked, or in sauce for a tasty and heart-healthy addition to your meals. Dark Chocolate Yes—chocolate, sweet! But hold on, it has to be the right kind. Pure, dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids that improve circulation, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease. Choose high-quality dark chocolate with a high cocoa percentage for maximum health benefits. Green Tea Green tea is rich in antioxidants that reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and protect against heart disease. Enjoy it hot or cold for a refreshing and heart-healthy drink. Conclusion Making smart nutrition choices is one of the best ways to keep your heart in its prime and lower your risk of heart disease. Incorporate these 10 foods into your diet to reap the heart-healthy benefits. The best part about these foods above is they're so flexible—they all can be incorporated into recipes, snacks in between meals, sandwiches, salads, desserts, you name it! Of course, you can eat them on their own, but feel free to get creative. Check out the American Heart Association's site for more suggestions on nutrition, exercise, and more if you're just getting started.  A healthy diet, combined with regular exercise, stress management, and good sleep, can help you maintain a strong, healthy heart for years to come.

Reading Time: 3 minutes How’s your heart doing? Heart health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, but unfortunately, many diseases and conditions can have a negative effect on the heart, such as high cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes, or coronary artery disease. Heart issues can lead to an array of complications and long-term health concerns, including stroke, dementia, and diabetes. However, there are some easy ways that you can take to support your heart health and live your best life without changing your entire lifestyle.  Swap 20 Minutes of Social Media for Movement Come on—we all do it. How many hours are you wracking up on your phone each day?  We love videos of cats doing cute things as much as the next person, but a sedentary lifestyle that's common with extended periods of sitting and scrolling on social media can lead to poor heart health. And even if you're checking your phone for five minutes here and there, take that time aside and put it towards moving your body. Regular physical activity supports good cardiovascular health, so rather than spending 20 minutes on your phone or laptop, take a walk around the block or do some stretches in your living room. The cat videos will be there when you get back. Reduce Sodium and Add Flavor High-sodium diets are linked to an increase in blood pressure, which puts additional strain on the heart. And unfortunately, the American diet is on average high in sodium. Make an effort to reduce your salt intake by avoiding processed foods and adding sauces and seasonings. Try not to put salt on the dinner table before eating so you aren't tempted to add more. Reducing the takeout and going out to eat can help too, as dishes at restaurants are largely unregulated in terms of ingredients and you can't be sure how much is in your order. Food prepping for the week can make it less tempting to go out.  If you like to cook, discover new spices and flavors that you can add to a dish while cutting back the sodium. Where you would normally add a bunch of salt to a recipe, cut down the amount you use. Instead, use fresh herbs and spices like garlic and turmeric to add flavor to your dishes. Swap In Plant-Based Once a Day Ditching animal-based proteins (like beef, pork, and eggs) for plant-based alternatives like beans, legumes, or tofu can help improve heart health too. That's because plant-based foods are lower in saturated fat and cholesterol than animal proteins. Saturated fat and cholesterol are bad for heart health, as they can increase your LDL cholesterol levels and clog up your arteries. Swapping in plant-based proteins once a day is an easy way to support your heart health. Try adding chickpeas to a salad instead of chicken, or using plant-based crumbles instead of beef on Taco Night.  And again, just like with fruits and veggies, it doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing thing—start by swapping out one meal item a day for something plant-based and go from there. There are so many options now! If you're an absolute carnivore and the switch feels too hard, try starting out with cutting red meat and swapping it for fish or chicken a couple of times a week, which are meat options lower in cholesterol and saturated fat. If you're struggling with ideas of what to make for dinner, try looking up some recipes online that focus on using mainly plant ingredients. We have some recipes here in our blog. Supplements for Heart Health  Even if you are eating a balanced diet, taking additional supplements is a good idea to consider with your medical professional. It's quick, easy to do, and relatively cost-effective.  There are several supplements that can support heart health in the long run: Resveratrol, a compound found in red wine and other foods, supports a lower risk of heart disease CoQ10 is an antioxidant that supports energy production & healthy cell function, including red blood cells Magnesium promotes lower, more regulated blood pressure levels Calcium promotes strong & healthy bones while also supporting your heart Conclusion Your heart health is important and there are many steps you can take to support it that don't feel like an overhaul of your entire lifestyle. No matter what changes you make—big or small—think of it as an investment in yourself. It's never too late to start taking care of yourself. Aim for a balanced diet, more movement and less tech, getting plenty of fruits & veggies, switching to plant-based meals once in a while, and talking to your doctor about supplements. Remember, small changes add up over time and your heart will thank you for taking the necessary steps to protect it.

Read Time: 4 minutes February is American Heart Month. What better time to talk about taking care of your cardiovascular health? We're in favor of everyone adopting some healthy habits (and stopping a few unhealthy ones) to support their best health. Here are some of the best ways to be smart about your heart this year and a special limited-time offer. Quit Smoking This one might be obvious, but smoking cigarettes isn't great for your health. In fact, smoking is one of the leading causes of cardiovascular disease. If you smoke, it increases your risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer. Smoking is linked to heart disease in that it damages your arteries and thereby reducing blood flow to your heart muscle over time, and increasing the risk for blood clots that form deep inside an artery or vein. There are many programs and aids that can help in your journey to quit, try experimenting and seeing what works best for you. Limit Alcohol Intake Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and drinking too much can raise your blood pressure and increase your risk for heart disease. People who drink alcohol should limit themselves to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. Is happy hour calling your name after work? If you don't want to quit entirely, try reducing how much alcohol you consume each day as much as possible. Reduce Stress Stress is a huge trigger for heart disease, so it's important to reduce stress in your life. Try these tips to reduce stress: Get moving. A brisk morning walk or evening jog can help you clear your mind and improve your mood. Exercise can lower blood pressure and LDL cholesterol levels, which are major risk factors for heart disease. Breathe deeply and slowly whenever you feel stressed out—this calms the sympathetic nervous system that controls our "fight-or-flight" response to stress (and also happens to be good for overall health). Spend more time with friends and loved ones; social support has been shown to support your wellness against stressors like money troubles or relationship issues. Prevent Diabetes According to the American Heart Association (AHA), diabetes is a serious condition that affects nearly 30 million Americans. In fact, it's considered one of the greatest public health challenges in the United States today. And while this disease can lead to serious complications like heart disease and stroke, you can lower your chances of developing diabetes by eating healthier foods, exercising regularly, and losing weight if necessary. Supplements for Heart Health There are several supplements that can support heart health. Here are the best ones to take: Resveratrol, a compound found in red wine and other foods, has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and more CoQ10 is an antioxidant that supports energy production & healthy cells within the body Magnesium may reduce the risk of high blood pressure as well as other signs of cardiovascular disease (CVD) Calcium promotes strong & healthy bones while supporting your heart Conclusion Heart health is a lifelong commitment, but small changes can make a big difference! Getting regular exercise and eating a healthy diet are great first steps to lowering your risk of heart disease.  You don’t need to change everything at once—start by making one change every week until you’re on track. Try starting with a daily vitamin supplement that’s beneficial for heart health and is a simple yet effective way to support your quality of life in the long run. Our Heart Health and Function bundle is curated just for this purpose. Our vitamins are non-GMO, vegan, sugar-free, and free from the nine most common allergens. We make it EZ to get the nutrition you need with our fast-melting supplements. And with our subscription service, it’s even easier to take care of yourself. Use code EZ30 at checkout to save 30% off your first subscription.

Read Time: 4 minutes November 1st is World Vegan Day, a day when people celebrate and raise awareness for a vegan lifestyle. This holiday was created in 1994 by Louise Wallis, the President of The Vegan Society, to help promote and educate people about the many benefits of a vegan diet. And it's not just a holiday here —World Vegan Day is celebrated by people all over the world. It's a great opportunity to learn more about what veganism is, its history and benefits, and how you can build a healthy diet. So if you are thinking of trying it out or just want to learn more about it, mark your calendars! While November 1st is World Vegan Day, learning about this lifestyle at this time of year is great because of the food-heavy holidays coming around the corner. What is Veganism? At its core, veganism is all about getting good nutrition and eating healthy foods for our bodies and the planet. It eliminates animal products from your diet, including meat, dairy, eggs, and even things like honey or gelatin.  There are many reasons why people choose to become vegan - some do it for health reasons, while others may be concerned about animal welfare or environmental issues related to factory farming practices. Whatever your reason may be, a vegan diet can provide you with all the nutrients you need to stay healthy and thrive—when you are intentional about the plant-based foods you eat. The Benefits of Veganism  At its core, veganism is a lifestyle that avoids all animal products and by-products. This can include things like meat, dairy, eggs, honey, leather goods, and more. While this diet and lifestyle originated as a type of ethical or moral stance against animal cruelty and exploitation, it has also become popular for health reasons. In fact, there are many health benefits to this diet when it comes to nutrition and overall well-being. For example, vegans tend to have lower rates of heart disease and cancer compared to those who eat animal products. They also tend to be leaner due to the higher intake of plant-based foods like fruits and vegetables. Additionally, following a vegan diet can help reduce your risk of chronic diseases like diabetes or hypertension.  The Challenges of a Vegan Diet However, people who follow this diet often are vitamin deficient. Certain vitamins like B12 and D are only found in animal products, so vegan diets may need to be supplemented with these nutrients. Protein is also something that can be a concern for vegan diets, as many plant-based foods don't contain all of the essential amino acids that our bodies need to function properly. It takes practice and education to find adequate substitutes and foods you enjoy if you're not used to a plant-based diet. Despite these challenges, veganism is still a sustainable way of life and can be incredibly beneficial, but everyone's bodies are different. If you're interested, be sure to do your research and talk to your doctor or dietitian about what kind of diet works best for you. Whatever your diet is, it's important to get good nutrition so that you can live your best life. An EZ Way to Support a Vegan Diet If you find that you'd like to implement some lifestyle changes and a plant-based diet, it's good to know that you aren't alone in being a vegan. Supplements can be an easy, cost-effective way to support diet and lifestyle changes that may create nutrient deficiencies.  However, a lot of supplements aren’t vegan, so finding a quality supplement that fits your diet is essential. Our vitamins are non-GMO, vegan, sugar-free and free from the nine most common allergens. We make it EZ to get the nutrition you need with our fast-melting supplements. With our subscription service, you’ll never have to worry about running out of the supplements you need! Use code EZ30 at checkout to save 30% off your first subscription order.

Read Time: 4 minutes This month, we're putting the spotlight on heart disease. Unfortunately, heart disease is still the leading cause of death in the United States, so it's important to do everything you can to reduce your risk.  We hope you find this information useful and that you'll take these tips to heart (pun intended). Eat a Healthy Diet Eating nutritious foods is good for your overall health, and that includes your heart. Be sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet, and limit your intake of saturated and trans fats. You should also watch your sodium intake, as too much salt can lead to high blood pressure. Here are some heart-healthy foods you can pick up on your next grocery trip. Try incorporating them into meals you already make: Avocado Whole Grains Berries Walnuts Beans Make Movement a Habit Exercise is another important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Aerobic exercise is great for your heart, so aim for at least 30 minutes of activity most days of the week and incorporate strength training at least 1-2x a week. If you're not used to exercising regularly, start off slow and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts. Going full throttle from no movement to extreme levels of exercise will not only cause fast burnout and lead to stopping, but it can also be harmful to strain your body. If it's overwhelming to begin a habit of movement, try our goal-setting tips for success here. Quit Smoking If you currently smoke cigarettes, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your heart (and your overall health). Did you know there are over 600 ingredients in a cigarette, 250 of which are known to be harmful? If you needed a reason to quit, that's a big one. If you need help quitting, there are many resources available, such as nicotine replacement products, counseling, and support groups. Just don't try to quit on your own—it's much harder than it sounds. Control Your Cholesterol There's good and bad cholesterol, but in the United States, almost 94 million people have bad cholesterol levels over 200mg/dL—that's a national health crisis. Cholesterol is a type of fat found in your bloodstream, and too much of the "bad" kind can contribute to plaque buildup in your arteries. This plaque buildup can lead to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), which increases your risk for heart attack and stroke. You can control your cholesterol levels by eating a healthy diet (see tip #1) and exercising regularly (see tip #2). If these lifestyle changes aren't enough, medication may also be necessary. Check Your Blood Pressure Routinely High blood pressure is another major risk factor for heart disease, so it's important to keep it under control. You can have your blood pressure checked at most doctor's offices or clinics, or you can purchase a home blood pressure monitor if you prefer to check it regularly. You can do many things to lower high blood pressure, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, losing weight if necessary, reducing stress, and limiting alcohol consumption. Medication may also be needed in some cases.  Take a Multivitamin Supplement  Certain vitamins, like E, C, and CoQ10, are linked to supporting a healthy heart. Creating a daily vitamin routine is one of the most affordable and easiest habits to adopt. Not sure where to start? A quality multivitamin supplement is always a great idea, and try pairing it with a CoQ10 supplement as well. Just remember that not all supplements are created equal. Our vitamins are non-GMO, vegan, sugar-free and free from the nine most common allergens. We make it EZ to get the nutrition you need with our fast-melting supplements. Right now for a limited time, first-time subscribers to our supplement deliveryservice save 30% on their order. It's never been a better time to protect your heart.

Read time: 3 minutes The nutrition we take in, whether through food or supplements, has been linked with effects on our immune system, vital organs and biological processes, and overall wellness. Beta-glucan in particular has been found to support cardiovascular health, immune function, blood sugar levels, and much more. Beta-glucan is a natural prebiotic fiber, and it is found in fungi, yeast, and algae. It is also in plants like oats and barley. While our bodies do produce certain vitamins and minerals, beta-glucan unfortunately is not one of them.  This means we have to get it through foods and supplements. Quality beta-glucan tablets are the easiest way to support your wellbeing. Read on to discover why you need beta-glucan, and three amazing things it can do for your body. Immune System Modulator Beta-glucans are known as immune modulators. But what do they “modulate”, or influence? Well, in terms of the immune system, they have been shown in trials to affect the activity of fighter cells like T-cells, macrophages, and natural killer (NK) cells. Simply put, our immune system is like an emergency alarm system. When there are intruders like pathogens, infection, or toxins, these fighter cells hear the alarm sounding and run to our aide. The effectiveness of our immune system is only as good as the response and speed of our fighter cells. Beta-glucan has been proven by research to aid in positively affecting the rate at which our immune systems respond to unknown pathogens. Heart Health The FDA has officially approved heart-health labels for food with high levels of beta glucan. Many studies suggest that beta-glucan in the right amounts can support low cholesterol as well as triglyceride levels. This may be attributed to the fact that beta-glucan is a form of water-soluble fiber. Fiber is necessary for regulating the digestive system, triglycerides, and low levels of unhealthy cholesterol. Blood Sugar Regulation With all of the sugar and preservatives in the modern American diet, more and more people are experiencing uneven levels of blood sugar, energy crashes, and diabetes. One way to counter this is with beta-glucan. Beta-glucan supports the regulation and control of blood sugar levels because of it being a fantastic form of fiber. Fiber keeps us full, focused, and helps us experience steady energy throughout the day. Because of this, it may help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, which has shown up markedly in people who consume sugar and unhealthy fats throughout the day. The EZ Melts Difference Quality matters. Make sure you are choosing a brand that cares about what they put into their vitamin supplements as much as you care about what goes into your body! The best part about choosing EZ Melts? Our tablets are fast melting, EZ to take, and have delicious customer-approved flavors. In addition, all our supplements have zero chemical additives, are vegan, and non-GMO. Try our beta-glucan supplement today. Thanks for being a part of our community!  ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Read time: 3 minutes Resveratrol is a polyphenol— a micronutrient found in plant-based foods. They are believed to act like an antioxidant, hence the claim that they support a slower aging process. Typically, these days you’ll hear them referenced to when talking about wine, as wine contains a rich source of this nutrient. While the jury is still out on a lot of the properties of resveratrol, studies show a lot of promise in this nutrient being utilized as a support for good health and longevity. Here are just a few of the benefits research shows resveratrol might bring: Supports lower blood pressure levels Supports lower “bad” cholesterol Supports nerve cell health May support relief for joints Promotes advanced antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, which are linked to a slower decline in brain health May lower the risk of diabetes Could limit the risk of cancerous cell growth The good news is in addition to wine, there are many foods with resveratrol, which is especially good news for those who don’t enjoy partaking in alcoholic beverages. Here are four foods that are rich in this “fountain of youth” nutrient. Foods Rich in Resveratrol Dark Chocolate Yes, chocoholics, good news! Your favorite treat contains high levels of resveratrol. Make sure you choose dark—milk chocolate doesn’t count as most of the nutritional properties of the cacao plant are not present here. In addition, dark chocolate also contains great sources of iron, manganese and copper, which are also important nutrients. Red Grapes You actually don’t need to drink wine to get resveratrol from this fruit—just plain red grapes will do too. The skin is actually where all its nutrients are contained. In addition to resveratrol, red grapes also contain manganese and potassium, as well as vitamins C, B1, and K. Peanuts If you’re into nutty, salty snacks, peanuts are a great move. In addition to protein, iron, and vitamin B6, peanuts contain a healthy amount of resveratrol. Add peanuts to dishes or throw them in your bag on your way to work for a midday boost. Blueberries   Just like grapes, blueberries are another fruit rich in antioxidants, including resveratrol. And also like grapes, its nutrients are contained in the skin of the berry. If you enjoy a sweet snack in the summer and are looking for healthy options, blueberries are a great option. The EZ Melts Difference Many people, due to allergies or lifestyle choices, don’t get ample amounts of resveratrol from their food, or they just want an extra boost to ensure they are getting enough antioxidants in their diet. That’s where supplements can bridge the gap! If you take a resveratrol supplement, see why EZ Melts is better--our vitamins are fast melting, EZ to take, and have a delicious customer approved flavor. Unlike many major vitamin brands, our tablets do not include harmful toxic ingredients, artificial flavors, or GMOs. Try us out and see the difference!  ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Read time: 3 minutes Vitamin B7, or as many people know it, biotin, is an incredibly important B vitamin to get enough of. Often it is found in health supplements meant to aid in growing strong hair and nails and keeping skin glowing year-round. But what many people may not realize is biotin is essential for everyone, at every stage of life. Unfortunately, we have to get biotin through our food sources, and many people end up lacking the vitamins and minerals they need to live their best lives. Here are four benefits of biotin beyond hair, skin, and nails that might surprise you. Healthy Weight Bodies come in all shapes and sizes, and we as a society still have a way to go in normalizing differences. However, if you are concerned about your weight’s impact on your physical health, one such factor to be aware of is making sure you are getting enough vitamins and minerals. This is because biotin, among other essential vitamins, supports thyroid regulation, and your thyroid, in turn, affects hormone balance and function, weight, and metabolism. Several enzymes in your body that process and metabolize fat, carbs, and proteins are supported by biotin. We can all celebrate our unique selves while still getting all the nutrition our body needs to function properly, biotin included. Fetal Development While it is rare to have a complete lack of biotin in one’s nutrition these days, always consult with a medical professional to make sure, especially if you’re expecting. Biotin is critical for many enzymatic reactions involved in growth and metabolism. Pregnant women particularly can become B7 deficient, and deficiency has been correlated with skeletal abnormalities in mammals and preterm infants. An increase in the amount of biotin consumed is often needed to support fetal growth for both parent and child. Blood Sugar Biotin is being studied in relation to supporting healthy blood sugar levels. Scientists believe that biotin may be connected to the body’s ability to regulate and synthesize glucose once it enters the bloodstream. If there is a history of glucose intolerance in your family or you are feeling especially fatigued and can’t pinpoint the issue, talk to your medical provider about the possibility of blood sugar abnormalities and if changing or supplementing your diet with vitamins and minerals like B7 will support a healthier lifestyle. Heart Health Heart disease is still the number one cause of death for men and women across the board, so it’s incredibly important to maintain cardiovascular health and find ways to support your heart. Proper nutrition and exercise are both very important for optimal heart health. Biotin has been correlated in some studies with lower levels of fat storage in the heart, and excess fat is known to be a risk factor in heart disease. While it is also important not to take too much biotin, as some studies suggest it can skew lab tests, B7 is a vital component of organ health. Making sure to get adequate amounts of biotin in external sources, such as supplements and food, is a great way to support a healthy, active lifestyle. The EZ Melts Difference If you try biotin supplements, see why EZ Melts is better--our vitamins are fast melting, EZ to take, and have a delicious customer-approved flavor. Unlike many major vitamin brands, our tablets do not include harmful toxic ingredients, artificial flavors, or GMOs. Try us out and see the difference!  ___   Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens