EZ Melts Health Blog

Are you an only child? Well, vitamin B-complex certainly isn’t! Vitamin B has a ton of siblings (eight essential ones to be exact), and it’s hard to keep them all straight. B vitamins are vital to so many different parts of our functioning body, especially the brain and all it does for us--memory, emotions, energy levels, stress, mental health including depressive episodes, etc [1], [2]. That’s a whole lot of brain power! Unfortunately, many people are deficient in B vitamins, especially vitamins B1, B6, and B12 [3]. This is because during human evolution we have lost a lot of our abilities to synthesize vitamins in the body itself [4]. Therefore, B-complex is only stored in the body via oral consumption--whether that’s food or vitamin supplements. Bs are also water soluble and pass through our bodies quickly, which means we need constant intake of the right dosages.   Vitamin Bs for Females Vitamins are miracle workers--and know what to do for you, even according to your biological sex. Bs are especially important during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Bs aid in fetal brain development and protect against the risk of birth defects! Bs also support good energy levels and lower the risk of preeclampsia, a life-threatening condition to both parent and child [5].   Vitamin Bs for Males In males, Bs are linked to testosterone levels in the body, and may help with building muscle tone. While research on sex-specific benefits of B vitamins is lacking in a lot of verified information, both sexes require Bs to metabolize food, which is important for physical health. Click here to see recommended daily dosages of Vitamin Bs; there are different requirements according to your sex!   Vitamin Bs, Deficiencies, and Benefits Here are all 8 essential B vitamins with a quick description of what they do and how to spot deficiencies. People with certain conditions, such as HIV/AIDS, alcoholism, or immune disorders have more of a chance of developing symptoms. If you feel you have an imbalance, you’ll have a better idea of what to ask your doctor with the information below.    Vitamin B1: Also called thiamin, it supports your immune system, metabolism of food, and cell reproduction. A shortage can cause beriberi [6], which affects the cardiovascular system, and loss of appetite, confusion, tingling in limbs, and severe memory loss, among other symptoms.   Vitamin B2: Also called riboflavin, serves as an antioxidant, is connected to the immune system, and also metabolizes food. Deficiency includes symptoms such as skin disorders, hair loss, and problems with liver and reproductive systems.   Vitamin B3: Also called niacin, it helps with cell production, particularly related to DNA. Lack of B3 can lead to diarrhea, memory loss, brain fog, and even dementia.    Vitamin B5: Also called pantothenic acid, it helps with hormone production, metabolism and breaking down essential fats. Lack of B5 symptoms include sleeplessness, irritability, headaches, heartburn, stomach pain, nausea, and loss of appetite, among others.   Vitamin B6: Also called pyridoxine, it is vital for over 100 reactions in the body having to do with metabolism. Symptoms of deficiency include itchy rashes, a swollen tongue, cracks in the lips, depression, confusion, and seizures in infants.   Vitamin B7: Also known as biotin, helps turn carbs, fat, and protein into energy and nutrition your body needs to function. A shortage of biotin could include symptoms of hair loss, rashes, pink eye, high levels of acid in urine, and development delays in infants, among others.   Vitamin B9: Also known as folate, this vitamin helps make DNA and other genetic material. Low amounts can lead to weakness, fatigue, mood swings, heart palpitations and shortness of breath, and developmental disorders in infants.   Vitamin B12: This vitamin keeps the nerve and blood cells healthy and helps with DNA production. A deficiency includes symptoms like loss of appetite, weakness and fatigue, severe anemia as well as poor memory and dementia.   What to Do  While it is rare for some of these to be found as deficient in the human body today, it still helps to consult with a medical professional if you are experiencing prolonged symptoms that match the above. Monitoring nutrient intake now could prevent more serious conditions down the road--so make sure to get the right amounts your body needs! If you try B supplements, see why EZ Melts is better--Our vitamins are fast melting, EZ to take, and have delicious customer-approved flavors. Unlike many major vitamin brands, our tablets don’t include harmful toxic ingredients or artificial flavors. Give our Zero Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO B-Complex supplement a try and see the difference! Sources: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6770181/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6316433/ https://www.cover-tek.com/which-supplement-do-you-need-b12-vs-b-complex/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4772032/ https://www.preeclampsia.org/signs-and-symptoms https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000339.htm ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Both athletes and people who are pregnant need this to stay strong and nourished. Well, okay,  all people need this. A pregnant woman needs twice the amount of this mineral that they did preconception [1], and if you’re a fitness devotee, your muscles need this to power through even the toughest workout. Speaking of muscles and pumping iron, yep…you guessed it (well, we just gave it away)!  We’re talking about iron, a mineral that is critical to endurance, strength, and vitality. Iron is essential for blood to carry oxygen through your body. It’s also necessary to create blood cells in general, hence why a shortage of iron = higher risk of conditions like anemia. Best case scenario? You’re fatigued and sluggish.   Intro to Iron Iron has a slew of important roles within your body, including: Neurological development Physical growth in young children Muscle endurance and metabolism Linked to stronger immune systems Synthesis of specific hormones   Yet with how essential iron is to our health, too many people don’t get enough! Ready for something that might shock you? Approximately 10 million people have an iron deficiency, and of those people, 5 million have anemia [2] That’s a lot of missing blood cells!  Why the shortage? When people think of iron and protein, maybe a thick cut of steak comes to mind, but there is an abundance of it in all sorts of foods that are much healthier, like fish, poultry, beans, and leafy greens to name a few [3]. (Click here for an extensive list of food options containing iron). Vegetarians are at increased risk of iron deficiency due to not consuming meat, which is why it’s important to include the other alternatives. However, even with this information, many people are not eating the foods required to sufficiently fuel their bodies. Totally understandable! With the hectic culture we live in, the last thing many of us are thinking of is looking at a nutritional label for iron and other vitamins/minerals. Go-go-go society aside, people will often choose to take iron supplements with the advice of a medical professional.   Too Much, Too Little Just as not having enough iron can pose health risks, so does having too much iron, which can lead to aching joints and fatigue [4], with the extreme of overconsumption being toxic amounts of iron in your bloodstream. This is why you should always check in with a health care provider before starting a new supplement regimen!   Our vitamins are fast melting, EZ to take, and have delicious customer-approved flavors. Have you tried our Zero Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO Iron supplement? If so, let us know what you think!    Sources: https://www.webmd.com/baby/are-you-getting-enough-iron#1 https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/287228#:~:text=ANSWER%20OUR%20SURVEY-,Benefits,person%20is%20not%20getting%20enough. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-HealthProfessional/ https://www.shape.com/healthy-eating/diet-tips/minerals-improve-workout-performance ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

What little habits can you incorporate into your life today for a better tomorrow? How about taking a high quality multivitamin? There are plenty of benefits to taking a multivitamin, because on average they contain over thirty vitamins and minerals[1] your body needs and have minimal negative side effects [2]. Plus, hello, it takes two seconds and no energy to swallow or chew (or melt) a vitamin. It’s one of the easiest self-care practices you can add to your daily routine. Interested in the full list of the essentials? Click here! But hold up--do multivitamins help? Will they actually promote overall well being? Which ingredients typically found in multivitamins are toxic?! Let’s find out.   Do Your Research The current American diet leaves a lot to be desired. Many of us--in fact, hundreds of thousands of us--are buying supplements to bridge the gap in our nutrition deficit. The solution to a poor diet is not only adding vitamin supplements into the mix. However, when you picture your future, do you envision yourself mentally healthy and physically sound? If so cover all your bases and consider supplements--after careful research on vitamin brands of course.   Toxic Ingredients to Stay Away From We say do your research because not all brands are created equal. Many contain toxins and harmful additives that actually detract from your health--isn’t it supposed to be the other way around? So...what are some of these harmful toxins anyway? Look out for: Artificial flavoring, which has been linked to diabetes [3] GMO products such as corn starch and gelatin from unknown sources [3] Chemically engineered food coloring such as red 40 and blue 2 [4] Titanium dioxide, found in things like makeup and even paint! It’s linked to harming lung health [5] Talc or magnesium silicate, which is a carcinogen and linked to stomach cancer [6] Don’t let this scare you away if you and your nutritionist/health provider believe you would benefit from adding a multivitamin into your life. Thankfully, there are supplements using ethical and safe ingredients (like us!).   Who Should Take Multivitamins? ⅓ of the American population already takes vitamin supplements, but there are specific groups of people that would benefit more from specific nutrients than others*, such as: Women who are pregnant or are planning on becoming pregnant Postmenopausal women People over the age of 50 Infants and small children What to Look For When talking about multivitamins specifically, look at the vitamins and minerals listed. Do they stack up to the list mentioned at the beginning of this post? A lot of brands won’t include everything they should in a supplement. Also, make sure that you are taking ONLY the recommended dosage. When taking supplements, especially those with minerals, it is easy to take too much. There is a growing shift away from chemical and artificial ingredients in the nutraceutical industry, and EZ Melts is proud to be a part of that movement. We ensure that our vitamins are non-GMO, vegan, gluten free, and free of harmful chemical additives and sweeteners.   Our vitamins are fast melting, EZ to take, and have delicious customer-approved flavors. Have you tried our Zero Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO Multivitamin supplement? If so, let us know what you think!   Sources: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/do-multivitamins-work#ingredients https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/MVMS-Consumer/ https://www.medicaldaily.com/flintstones-vitamins-contain-artificial-sweeteners-and-gmo-products-fresh-fruits-and-veggies-are https://healthfully.com/the-side-effects-of-artificial-food-coloring-7764602.html https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24378593/ https://science.sciencemag.org/content/173/4002/1141.long ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

There’s a reason we look forward to that morning cup before getting on with the day, and that’s caffeine addiction! Despite it being a mild drug, it technically still is a drug that alters your body’s homeostasis.  When you consume caffeine regularly, it is easy to develop a physical addiction. Caffeine addiction leads to headaches, nausea, dizziness, irritability, and anxiety, as it stimulates the nervous system.  We’re sure you’ve heard this all before, so no need to dive in further! Instead, here are some alternative ways to wake yourself up!  Try them at the same time as you decrease consumption of caffeine--no need to go cold turkey! Usually drink 2 cups? Try first decreasing to one cup and a few of these quick and easy ways to supplement for clean, natural energy.  Don’t drink coffee?! Try ‘em out anyway and let us know if they work for you!  Water, Water Everywhere Before bed, put a 16oz glass of water next to your bed, and make a point to drink it when you wake up.  Make an enjoyable ritual of waking up slow--set your alarm to allow an extra 15 minutes, sit up in bed, and think about something you are looking forward to that day while drinking. Bonus? Your digestive system can be kickstarted by drinking cold water and set you up for the day ahead. Taste Something Good in the AM Make it a point to give yourself extra time to eat a high-fiber, high-protein breakfast with minimal sugar.  Oatmeal with blueberries, overnight oats made the night before, or eggs with avocado are all excellent choices! Pick something you look forward to eating so it motivates you to stop pressing snooze.  Shock Your System This sounds crazy but stay with us: cold shower, first thing after getting up--yes, even in the winter! This is associated with stimulating your nervous system and circulation, which could increase your awareness and energy levels.  If you are intimidated by the thought of a jet of cold water hitting you after being in a warm bed, don’t do it right away! Instead, get in a warm shower, and gradually turn the knob to cold over a few minutes.  Downward Dog  Activate your body first thing, by trying a downward dog position. If you aren’t flexible, try a modified version. As long as you are getting blood flowing!   Watch this one minute clip to learn the proper form, beginner or not!  We know, we know--waking up isn’t fun for most of us. But incorporating these morning rituals can make it easier to do, as it is creating a positive cycle of generating natural energy.  Is getting up a little earlier indefinitely a little intimidating? All habits start on day one!  Commit to a week or two of this to see if the benefits are helpful for your energy levels.  Need help going to sleep earlier so you’re not groggy the next day? Try pairing Melatonin, a natural hormone supplement, with any or all of the tips above. Check out our Zero Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO quick melting Melatonin tablets in a customer-approved delicious flavor!  ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Ah yes, is there anything more satisfying to a sugar craving than chocolate? Maybe, but we haven’t found it! But did you know that quality chocolate supports many health functions? It’s a win-win! Let’s talk ‘bout our best friend: cocoa!   Dark Chocolate vs the Other Stuff Listen, we aren’t telling you to grab the biggest candy bar you can find--slow down there! If you’re looking to reap the health benefits of cacao, a Snickers bar won’t do. Dark chocolate, aka chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa and minimal sugar, holds many positive health benefits. The cocoa bean, or cacao bean, originates from the plant of the same name. In fact, it is a tropical evergreen tree, and its beans are dried and processed into cocoa for a multitude of purposes.   Sweet Nutrition Cocoa packs a powerful punch. According to Healthline, in one 100g bar of dark chocolate with 70-85% cocoa, there is soluble fiber and a ton of other great things like magnesium, selenium, iron, potassium, and zinc! In addition, consuming cacao has been linked to heart health. In a recent study, subjects with high blood pressure and glucose sensitivity were found to have lower pressure and better tolerance of said glucose. Cacao has high levels of polyphenols, which are linked to lower risk of cardiovascular disease! So if your heart races at the thought of eating dark chocolate, we say--go for it!   Banish Inflammation Quality cacao also contains a bunch of flavonoids that are powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents. Chronic inflammation can lead to diseases, especially if you already consume inflammatory foods! Dark chocolate to the rescue! The flavonoids in quality dark chocolate with a high concentration of cacao support healthy aging and production of cells that line your arteries. Eating chocolate to protect our arteries? Sounds like a small sacrifice.   Take Your Stress Down a Notch Do you ever wonder why when we are stressed, our body craves comfort foods and sugary sweets like chocolate? Well...it could have to do with the fact that high concentrations of cacao brings with it behavioral and brain benefits, according to recent studies. Cacao has been shown to support the release of neurotransmitters, which is related to the release of uplifting serotonin. Low levels of serotonin has been linked to depression, so next time you’re stressed and releasing all sorts of cortisol (the stress hormone), it might actually make sense to take a break and grab a handful of cacao nibs for some much deserved “me time”.   Quality Matters If you’re digging the health benefits your favorite treat brings, remember that the type of chocolate you buy makes all the difference. When purchasing cacao, make sure it is minimally processed, meaning raw is the best. Often cocoa producers will roast the beans which zaps all the good nutrients right out! And chocoholics be warned: everything in moderation is the best way to balance out your nutrition. Now...munch away! Need extra help with stress? Check out our Zero Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO quick melting L-Theanine tablets in a customer-approved delicious flavor! ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

In a recent blog post, we discussed some interesting tips on how to wake your body up without large amounts of caffeine--but hold up! Caffeine sensitivity aside, does coffee actually have potential health benefits? The answer is yes--in moderation. Let’s discuss! Benefit #1: Smarter?! When coffee containing caffeine is consumed, it blocks an inhibitory neurotransmitter called adenosine, which in turn allows for increased neuro-firing. Dopamine and norepinephrine are released, and it is shown that brain activity, such as recall and performance on simple tasks, is increased. Another cool fact? Caffeine is considered an adenosine receptor antagonist, and studies showthat these antagonists act as protection against neurological diseases. While it won’t cure or guarantee you won’t get a neurodegenerative disease, it certainly helps to know that caffeine does limit the release of adenosine when taken.   Benefit #2: Antioxidants!  Coffee in our cultural diet is one of the largest sources of antioxidants out there. As in our blog post about cacao, coffee contains antioxidants that fight against cardiovascular disease. This is due to antioxidants promoting healthy cell regeneration in arterial walls. Yes, coffee takes the cake when it comes to the bioavailability of antioxidants in a serving size. In fact, even when up against fruits and vegetables, coffee is the winner of contributing these powerful anti-inflammatory agents upon consumption!   Benefit #3: Anti-Grump Coffee is a mood booster! Yup, if you’re a grouchy bedhead in the morning, conscientious drinking of this beverage can actually trigger neurotransmitters to release feel-good hormones and chemicals such as dopamine, talked about earlier. Although it should be noted that caffeine is in fact a stimulant drug and you can experience the harsh side effects of a caffeine crash (ie: more irritation) if you drink too much coffee. As we like to say, everything in moderation!   Benefit #4: Liver Health Alcohol consumption is a pervasive part of our culture, and often it leads to alcohol abuse, even cirrhosis of the liver. Cirrhosis, especially cirrhosis due to alcohol overconsumption, is more common than we’d like to think, and it is a serious issue that can lead to liver failure. In addition to maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle, drinking coffee statistically has been found to lower the risk of cirrhosis. What is more interesting--no other beverages or foods containing caffeine were found to have the same potential to protect against cirrhosis! And it might not be limited to just this disease--coffee has been found to also have more properties that fight off the chance of hepatocellular carcinoma, as well as slow down the rate of fibrotic disease development.   Benefit #5: Nutritious Bean As we wrap up, we thought we would leave you with some takeaways on the vitamins and minerals found in a 8oz serving of Joe: Riboflavin, Pantothenic Acid, Manganese, Potassium, Magnesium and Niacin. These nutrients are essential to function and wellbeing, and all found in a serving of coffee. Supplementing any other healthy habit with a cup of coffee might prove to benefit your nutrition*!   Don’t Overdo It As we mentioned previously, caffeine found in coffee is a stimulant, meaning it is a drug and you can easily become addicted to it. Need an extra boost of energy and don’t want the caffeine crash? Check out our Zero Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO quick melting Energy, Memory & Mood Enhancer tablets in a customer-approved delicious flavor! ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

We feel you--times are tough. Stress levels are high, and being cooped up is taking a toll, mentally and physically.  Even with businesses and jobs opening back up in our communities, that kind of anxiety can take a long term toll. There is something that can help, L-Theanine, which is linked to naturally reducing cortisol levels--the hormone that goes haywire when we are anxious.  But in addition to taking natural supplements to maintain your stress levels, there are things--free things--you can do in the moment when you are experiencing some tough anxiety symptoms.  We know people have said “BREATHE DEEPLY” to you before. But have you ever wondered if there is a technique to doing it? After all, breathing is one of those things we do without thinking! But hold on: try this method below, for at least one minute in the moment of stress, or ideally, throughout your day for balance.  Deep breathing practice is scientifically proven to release endorphins, improve blood flow, improve sleep quality, release constricted muscles, and even improve posture! All of these functions are negatively impacted in prolonged periods of anxiety.  Try out the 4x4 method: Sit still or lie down if possible, hands on stomach. Close your eyes if preferred.  Breathe in normally for a breath, and release--your abdomen should expand forward and backward with this action. You should feel it in your hands. BREATHE IN deeply through your nose for four, even counts. Using “One Mississippi, two Mississippi” or another popular method helps.  HOLD the breath at the peak for another four, even counts. RELEASE slowly and powerfully, from the root of your abdomen for four, even counts.  Repeat four times (or as long as you need to!)  Research apps that time your breath if you prefer sounds to keep you on track to counting in your head, or other helpful forms of breathing practice!  Enjoy that fresh air and peace of mind. Not already taking L-Theanine? Check out our Zero Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO quick melting L-Theanine tablets in a customer-approved delicious flavor! ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

*Yawn* Seriously though, sheep aren’t going to catch us sleeping. According to the Sleep Foundation, 68% of adults ages 18 to 29 report experiencing symptoms of insomnia, compared with 59% percent of adults ages 30 to 64, and 44% over the age of 65[1]! And even if you don’t have this medical condition, there are many people who report just not being able to sleep at night. Ugh. That’s a whole lot of you night owls out there! Jokes aside, sleep hygiene, or the healthy routine of getting adequate sleep at the same scheduled time, is actually critical to longevity, your mental health, and even your immune system, just to name a few! Read on to learn some surprising things to try for a restful sleep...   1. Take Takeout Out of the Bedroom! Many of us work in bed on our laptops, watch The Office on repeat under the covers, and even eat dinner in bed (you thought no one knew, didn’t you?)! No judgment, we all like doing things from the comfort of our bedroom, and it can be even more tempting if you’ve been working from home for months! But when you do stressful or active things on the object that you sleep on, your brain might be associating your mattress with more awake time. Try creating separate spaces for work, eating, entertainment, exercise, and rest, and see how it affects your sleep patterns.   2. Driving You Up the Walls This sounds like a weird one, but trust us. Before getting into bed, try this restorative and accessible yoga pose: legs up the wall, also known as viparita karani. Sit sideways on the floor and scoot your seat until it rests on the wall, then put your legs straight up. (Your seat doesn’t need to be flush against the wall, as long as your legs are up with your sitz bones on the floor.) Gravity from this pose can help your blood circulate from your lower half. Pair it with our breathing exercise from our last blog post, and sit there for at least five minutes. Then get under the covers and dream away!   3. Three Words Blue. Light. Glasses. There are tons of videos that visually demonstrate how these lenses block harsh blue light from technology, associated with keeping your mind hyperstimulated. If you spend long hours on your computer or phone, try these out. They may help your brain and eyes relax, rather than keeping you awake and strained. Some people report that they believe it helps them with headaches and computer vision! Still looking for more? Try pairing Melatonin, a natural hormone supplement, with any or all of the tips above. Check out our Zero Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO quick melting Melatonin tablets in a customer-approved delicious flavor! ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens Sources: National Sleep Foundation. 2020. Insomnia.

With isolation and everyone staying home, it can be really hard to motivate yourself to work out when your bed, couch, and fridge are so close to your workout space. Or you may be worried about exercising outside if you live in a highly infected area. We know someone saying “just do it” doesn’t work when it comes to motivating you to exercise, but we want to share with you some cool facts about how regular exercise can flex your immune system muscles as well as your body! Some people are worried that straining or stressing the body with exercise will lead to a weaker immune system. However, research shows that moderate-intensity exercise on the regular is tremendously beneficial for your mental wellbeing and physical immunity. The idea is “something is better than nothing”, so even a 30-minute walk if you don’t feel like running one day is still something that adds up over time! Exercise also helps reduce stress. Stress has been known to raise cortisol levels, lower serotonin, and also is linked to a weaker immune system. Seems ironic that the one thing we need right now, our immune system, is impacted negatively by worrying about our health. For the times you can’t exercise right away to reduce stress, you should also consider taking L-Theanine. L-Theanine is a natural remedy for stress, because it increases levels of dopamine and serotonin without prescriptions or unnatural chemicals, helping you stay level and calm. In order to have your entire immune system firing on all cylinders, it’s important to boost your immunity anyway you can. Exercise, paired with key vitamins and minerals, go a long way in keeping your system running optimally. Not already taking L-Theanine? Check out our Zero Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO quick melting L-Theanine tablets in a customer-approved delicious flavor! ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Fungi, bacteria, viruses...it can be hard to keep all of the biological invaders straight. And what’s more, your body won’t be able to fight properly without a killer immune system (no pun intended). With COVID-19 still looming and causing uncertainty, you can bet we are looking for any way to help our immune systems stay strong! If you have been following our other blog posts, you’d know that at EZ Melts we have been obsessed with combining vitamins C, D3, and zinc! Why take all of these minerals and vitamins if they all help the immune system? Isn’t that excessive? Nope. Here’s why: When you are in working order and feeding your body what it needs, it utilizes proper amounts of all nutrients in synergy. No system in your body works alone, and no vitamin or mineral works alone either! Here’s a recap of the importance of each: Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that boosts your immune system response and fights free radicals which harm and age your skin. Vitamin D: According to research, about 42% of Americans today are vitamin D deficient! Low levels of vitamin D are linked to out-of-whack autoimmune responses and lower immunity. Zinc: Zinc is essential in aiding over 300 enzymes that exist to help with digestion, metabolism, nerve function and you guessed it: the immune system. We know that these are incredibly stressful times. Being unsure of the world around us every day with the COVID-19 pandemic can be hard on us mentally and physically. Stress has been known to raise cortisol levels, lower serotonin, and also is linked to a weaker immune system. Seems ironic that the one thing we need right now, our immune system, is impacted negatively by worrying about our health. Because of this, you should also consider L-Theanine. L-Theanine is a natural remedy for stress, because it increases levels of dopamine and serotonin without prescriptions or unnatural chemicals, helping you stay level and calm. In order to have your entire immune system firing on all cylinders, it’s important to boost your immunity with a multitude of different vitamins and minerals. Don’t neglect them! Not already taking all three? Check out our Zero Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO quick melting vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc tablets in customer-approved delicious flavors in our reduced price Essential Immune Bundle! ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Zinc can be hard to trace--no really, it’s a trace mineral in the human body, meaning we only need a tiny amount for it to do its job. And what is its job? In addition to playing copycat to vitamin C and helping to shorten the duration of a cold, zinc actually helps the body make protein and DNA. That’s why it’s super important for pregnant women as well as for developing children, as it supports healthy and essential growth. So you might be wondering, I’m done growing--why should I care about zinc? An Essential Nutrient Zinc is vital and essential in aiding over 300 enzymes that exist to help with digestion, metabolism, immune system, and nerve function. But zinc isn’t stored in the body, so we have to get it in supplements. That stinks. What stinks more is the side effects you can develop with a zinc deficiency, such as:       Lower immunity       Hair loss       Swollen tongue       Erectile dysfunction       Lower sensations of smell and taste       And unfortunately, many more. Where is It? There are a ton of foods that have high levels of zinc, such as beans and legumes, red meat, shellfish, dairy products, eggs, etc., but due to allergies and sensitivities as well as diets, some people might be more at risk of zinc deficiency because of the restrictions. In any case, it’s important to have a daily routine of feeding your body the nutrients it needs--including zinc--and supplements are the easiest and quickest way of ensuring you get the correct amount. Not already taking zinc? Check out our Zero Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO quick melting zinc tablets in a customer-approved delicious flavor! ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Has anyone ever told you to enjoy at least 20 minutes of sun every day for your health? Or have you experienced more fatigue in the colder months when we are indoors and sunny weather is not as prevalent? One of the main reasons is because our skin produces vitamin D when activated by sunlight. (Wear sunscreen of course!) In addition, you can find vitamin D in many different foods, some better sources than others. But despite knowing this, according to research, about 42% of Americans today are vitamin D deficient[1]! Supplements to the Rescue Deficiency can be due to poor diet, minimal sunlight exposure from long hours at work, health conditions such as celiac or chronic kidney/liver disease, and even from something like long-term heartburn medication! We have great news for you-- supplements can make up for the lack of Vitamin D2 and D3 (and ours are quick-dissolving, vegan and gluten-free, with customer-approved flavors and no chemical additives...just sayin’). Big deal right? It’s only one vitamin, why bother investing in supplements? Well, we may be a little biased at EZ Melts, but if you look at the facts, science shows that low levels of vitamin D over time can lead to chronic skin conditions and many others, such as osteoporosis. In addition, feeling cranky is an understatement--lack of vitamin D is linked to mood swings and even depression! Read on to get the How-To on soaking in the benefits of D2 and D3… A Quick Summary If you think you may be severely low on D fuel, talking to your doctor is recommended. Normal vitamin D levels should be between 20-80 NG/ML.* However, for the majority of us, low levels and the corresponding symptoms can be remedied with OTC vitamin supplements. It’s an easy fix to gain optimal health benefits, as well as a preventative measure for later on in life. Many vitamin D supplements are solid and there are a ton of chemical additives, which can cause stomach upset, among other things. But ours use 100% all-natural ingredients and sweeteners, and are fast-melting--no swallowing required! Sunshine in a bottle? We think so. (Still, go outside--it’s nice out there.)  Not already taking vitamin D? Check out our Zero Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO quick melting vitamin D3 tablets in a customer-approved delicious flavor! ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21310306/

*cough cough* Ever wonder why you were told to take vitamin C before and during being sick? Sure, from time to time you may drink a glass of orange juice, popularly associated with high vitamin C content... but this supernutrient is so much more than something to be consumed in fruit-based drinks at brunch outings (although, we don’t begrudge you that). Here are the five amazing health benefits for taking vitamin C in supplement form--so you get the ensured daily dose your body needs to do allllllll this and more: 1. Repairing Tissue No not a Kleenex! Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is vital in forming bone, muscle, tissue, and skin. It also helps repair things in your body like tissue, so when you tear a muscle when you get back to the gym, you can count on vitamin C to rush to your aid! 2. Immune System Shield  This is why your parents gave you vitamin C as a kid! It is an incredibly formidable antioxidant that can increase the antioxidant levels in your blood substantially. Antioxidants are molecules that protect your cells and also fight inflammation---for example, it has been linked to aiding your heart! 3. Get Gone Gout Gout is a terribly painful form of arthritis that affects 4% of Americans. It is caused when there is too much uric acid in a person’s body and inflammation is triggered. Studies show that vitamin C is linked to lowering uric acid levels and therefore reducing gout inflammation. 4. Collagen Production Do you ever wonder why people are stocking up on vitamin C facial serum lately? In addition to being a POWERFUL antioxidant that fights free radicals which harm and age your skin, Vitamin C is responsible for boosting your body’s natural collagen production! 5. Iron Absorption Iron is essential in producing blood cells and keeping it flowing, as well as maintaining healthy oxygen levels. Without it, conditions like anemia and severe fatigue can develop! Vitamin C has been proven to aid in the absorption of iron by turning it into a form of itself that is more easily accepted by the body. Often you will see these two nutrients paired together in supplements due to its positive effects on absorption! With all these benefits, your parents were on to something! Not already taking vitamin C? Check out our Zero Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO quick melting vitamin C tablets in a customer-approved delicious flavor! ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

In the past few months, nothing has united us all more than COVID-19 and keeping ourselves healthy. Internet search trends have shown people scouring the internet for any tips on keeping their immune system in fighting shape while we race for the vaccine. We know that keeping yourself and your loved ones safe is something you care about most, so we would like to welcome you to the EZ Melts family by sharing some brief reminders in maintaining health and wellness during these uncertain times. 1. Sleep –  *yawn* You’re tired, even exhausted right now—balancing your children’s schedules and working from home? Or feeling like it’s noon when it’s only 7 am? Does time even exist anymore? Inadequate sleep reduces the production of protective cytokines, proteins that target infection, and inflammation. It has also been proven that restless sleep promotes weight gain and increased appetite for junk food, especially when stressed—definitely not a big help in keeping your immune system strong[1]! Solution: Shut off all electronics at least an hour before bed and consider wearing blue-light blocking glasses! They really help with eye strain and prevent that “buzzy” feeling when you lay down and try to get shut-eye. Digital light from devices is believed to interfere with your natural melatonin production and might keep you from resting adequately. (If you are really struggling with sleep after trying this, you might want to take natural melatonin supplements 30 minutes before bedtime.) 2. Manage your Stress – Have you ever been super stressed only to get physically sick days later? There’s a scientific explanation for that— too much anxiety reduces your body’s lymphocytes—the white blood cells that help you fight off infection[2]. Solution: See Sleep section above – when you don’t get enough shut-eye, you’re crabby and prone to more stress.  Also, live by via negativa – or the art of addition by subtraction.  As we work from home, it’s easy for professional and personal life to become too intertwined. What unnecessary environmental factors or habits can you remove from your daily life that cause you stress? Take it a step further—what minor positive habits can you add to your schedule to decrease stress? 3. Eat Real Food – this goes without saying, but diet is probably the biggest contributor of all.  Keep up your micronutrient intake to keep your immune system on point. This literally feeds the fighter cells that keep your immunity up! Solution: reduce sugar, preservatives (think packaged foods), and saturated fats. Focus on colorful fruits and leafy greens that you enjoy to get the critical Vitamin C and Zinc we all know keeps the immunity up.  Oh... and get some sunlight for that Vitamin D3. We all know it’s easier said than done—so work on making tiny changes rather than trying to change your entire life in a day. We promise it will all build up to something great over time! ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens Sources: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28849612 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32403291