EZ Melts Health Blog

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: 6 minutes We’re all about enjoying treats, especially during Halloween. However, it can be hard to join in on all the spooky fun this month if you have certain dietary restrictions that keep you from grabbing the usual Halloween candy. That’s why we’ve come up with four frightfully delicious Halloween-themed recipes. Whether you have a health condition or are just looking to be more conscious of what you eat, these recipes are all treats, no tricks!   Ghostie Marshmallow Crispies (V) Love marshmallows crispy treats? Us too. Unfortunately for vegans, most marshmallow products at the store contain gelatin made with animal products. But they’re such a year-round American staple that we had to include a vegan version for them in honor of Halloween. Plus, crispy rice cereal is light on sugar per serving compared to your average chocolate or candy you get this time of year. Serves: 22-24 You’ll Need: 1/2 cup dairy-free butter spread 2 (10-ounce) bags of vegan marshmallows (check out Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 12 cups crispy rice cereal Ghost-shaped cookie cutter 1/2 cup of orange-and-black sprinkles (optional) Directions:  Grease two 9×13-inch baking pans, or one larger pan. Melt the butter in a large pot. Add the vegan marshmallows and mix gently until the marshmallows are completely melted. Add vanilla extract. Remove the pot from the heat and add the crispy rice and sprinkles (if desired). Immediately and quickly stir the mixture until it’s all evenly and thoroughly coated. Transfer the mixture to the baking pans. Place a sheet of parchment paper over the top and press gently to make the layer even in the pan. Let the crispy treats cool on your counter. Cut the crispy treats with your ghost cookie cutter. Enjoy!   Sugar-Free Cemetery Dirt Cake Ah, dirt: one of the joys of childhood. But getting to play with “dirt” and eat it too? That’s too good to be true. For a spookier setting, try this recipe and make a fun graveyard scene on top of the cake. You won’t even notice it’s sugar-free! Serves: 8-9 You’ll Need: 1 cup of butter, softened 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1/4 cup sugar-free chocolate chips, melted 1 1/2 cups alternative confectioner’s sugar 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream 2 teaspoons vanilla extract A tiny dash of salt Sugar-free gummy worms, sugar-free chocolate bars, sugar-free Oreo cookies…even add the Ghostie Marshmallow Crispies from the previous recipe! Directions: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and spray a 9x13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Mix the almond flour and coconut flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl until evenly distributed, then set aside. Using a hand or counter mixer, cream together the sweetener alternative and butter until fluffy and light in a large bowl. Mix in eggs and heavy cream. Incorporate the dry ingredients a little at a time into the wet ingredients. Combine well. Pour chocolate cake batter into the pre-greased baking pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. (Let cool completely before frosting the cake.) While the cake is baking, make the sugar-free chocolate buttercream frosting. Whip the butter until fluffy and light in a second. medium bowl. Add in the remaining ingredients and continue to whip until smooth. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake, then it’s time to decorate! Add square pieces of chocolate bars to the cake with sugar-free decorating icing to make headstones, add crushed sugar-free Oreos and crumble over the tops, then add sugar-free gummies, sprinkles, and whatever else you’d like, then serve.   Chocolate Crawlers on a Log (GF) If your favorite sweet treat is a chocolate peanut butter cup, try this alternative. You’ll be saving calories, sugar, and a load of preservatives that are in traditional chocolate peanut butter candies. Plus, it’s fun for kids and creepy crawly with chocolate spiders instead of ants. Serves: 4 You’ll Need: 4 stalks of celery, about 4 inches long each 8 tablespoons creamy, all-natural peanut butter 1/2 cup sugar-free or semi-sweet chocolate chips (or whatever you prefer) Directions: Cut celery into sticks and fill with peanut butter. Melt 1/4 cup of chocolate chips and spoon into a piping bag, or use a plastic sandwich bag and cut a small tip off of a corner. Place 1-3 chocolate chips onto the peanut butter for the “spiders”. Then using the melted chocolate, make little legs around each spider’s body. Serve and enjoy!   Orange-You-Glad-It’s-Halloween Cupcakes Yes, the name is super silly, but we had to add a pumpkin-themed recipe somewhere! These bright and cheery orange cupcakes are low on sugar but loaded with fiber, protein, and vitamins from the pumpkin puree and Greek yogurt, and we added carrots to boot. Top it off with a delicious cream cheese frosting and some candy corn, and you’ve got a sweet and healthier dessert you can enjoy any time of the day—not just Halloween night! Serves: 14-16 You’ll Need: 2 cups white flour 2 egg whites 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (NOT pumpkin pie mix) 1/2 cup plain or vanilla nonfat Greek yogurt 1/4 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk 3 Tbsp coconut oil melted and cooled 1/2 cup finely shredded carrots 2 teaspoons vanilla extract ½ cup of sugar or Stevia (sugar alternative) 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 tablespoon baking soda 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Pinch of salt Sugar-free or regular candy corn (for cream cheese frosting) 8oz block of light cream cheese, softened ¼ cup vanilla nonfat or light Greek yogurt ¼ cup maple syrup or honey 1 tsp vanilla extract Directions: Preheat oven to 350° F. Grease two medium muffin pans with non-stick cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside. In a medium bowl, beat the two egg whites., then add the vanilla nonfat Greek yogurt, coconut oil, sugar or Stevia, pumpkin puree, unsweetened vanilla almond milk, vanilla extract, and shredded carrots. Mix well. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Stir until just combined to make them fluffy and moist. Do not over-mix. Pour into muffin cups. Bake for 14 minutes, then check every minute until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. While muffins are baking, make your cream cheese frosting by combining the cream cheese, nonfat or light vanilla Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and your choice of honey or maple syrup in a small bowl, and mix until evenly combined. Let muffins cool completely before frosting them. Frost, then add one or two candy corns to the top of each cupcake. Store in the refrigerator when not serving to prevent frosting from melting. Enjoy! Sugar-Free Supplements Halloween is the perfect time to enjoy a little bit of candy, but be sure to do so in moderation! In addition, you'd be surprised how much sugar everyday foods contain, so make sure to check nutrition labels.  If you’re looking for more ways to be health-conscious, consider taking a sugar-free vitamin supplement like EZ Melts®. It’s one of the quickest and easiest ways to support optimal health. 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.

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: 5 minutes  We love all the tricks and treats of Halloween as much as the next person, but the REAL trick is how much sugar the average American consumes around the holiday (about 3.4 pounds, spooky!). Everything is fine in moderation, and the freedom to choose and enjoy different foods is completely up to the individual. However, eating large amounts of refined sugar on a regular basis can lead to a whole host of not-so-sweet health problems, both in the short and long term. Weight Gain One of the most immediate effects of overeating sugar is weight gain. When you consume foods high in sugar, your body must work overtime to metabolize the sugar into energy. This process uses up a lot of calories, and if you're not careful, can lead to excessive weight gain that's hard to shake. In addition, when your blood sugar spikes and then crashes, you may find yourself reaching for more sugary foods just to get your energy back up. This creates a vicious cycle that's hard to break. Skin Health Sugar can also wreak havoc on your skin. When you eat too much sugar, your body produces more insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. But when there's too much insulin in your blood, it can lead to inflammation and an increased risk for acne breakouts. So, if you're trying to clear up your skin, it's important to limit your sugar intake. In addition, sugar can cause your skin to age prematurely. Sugar molecules can attach to proteins in your body, including. This makes you more susceptible to colds and other illnesses. Diabetes Type 2 diabetes can develop over time due to lifestyle choices and is characterized by high levels of sugar in the blood. When you eat sugary foods, your body must produce more insulin to process the sugar. Over time, this can lead to insulin resistance, where your body doesn't process sugar as well as it should. If left unchecked, insulin resistance can lead to type 2 diabetes, and people with type 2 diabetes are at more of a risk for pancreatic cancer. So, if you have a family history of diabetes or are overweight, it's especially important to limit your sugar intake. It's also important to note that while some people are at more risk, anyone can develop diabetes, and it often happens because of long-term consumption of trans fats and refined sugar. Pancreatic Cancer Cancer cells thrive on sugar; they use it as their primary source of fuel. The more sugar you eat, the more fuel you give cancer cells to grow and multiply. While there's no definitive link between sugar and cancer, studies have shown that people who consume high amounts of sugar are at an increased risk for certain types of cancer, including pancreatic cancer. So it's best to err on the side of caution and limit your sugar intake. Tooth Decay and Loss Another problem that can be caused by overeating sugar is cavities. Sugar leads to cavities because it changes the pH balance in your mouth, making it more acidic. This acidic environment provides the perfect breeding ground for cavity-causing bacteria. Cavities occur when these bacteria eat away at the enamel on your teeth. Once the enamel is gone, the bacteria can start eating away at the underlying tooth structure, causing serious damage. Unfortunately, if tooth decay goes on for too long, it leads to costly and painful root canals, and even losing your teeth. Heart Disease When you eat too much sugar, your body's triglyceride levels increase. Triglycerides are a type of fat that can build up in your blood and clog your arteries. This increases your risk for heart attacks and strokes. And as mentioned, sugar is linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure—all of which can contribute to heart disease. So, if you want to protect your heart health, it's important to limit sugar intake. Conclusion From weight gain and cavities to heart disease and diabetes, there are plenty of reasons why you should limit your intake of sugary foods. Halloween is the perfect time to enjoy a little bit of candy but be sure to do so in moderation! In addition, you'd be surprised how much sugar everyday foods contain, so make sure to check nutrition labels. Your body will thank you for it! 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! The best part about choosing EZ Melts®? Our tablets are fast melting, EZ to take, and our flavors are loved by customers.

Read Time: 3 minutes  As we move further into the digital age, it seems like everything is done electronically. We communicate with friends and family through text and social media, get our news from online sources, and even do our work and school assignments digitally. But what about those who prefer pen and paper? Are they at a disadvantage? Research suggests that people who write things down the old-fashioned way are reaping benefits that those of us who rely on electronic communication is missing out on.  In fact, researchers display growing concerns about the way technology is negatively impacting our communication and critical thinking abilities. We're not saying the digital age is terrible (this article is online after all), but it doesn't hurt to go back to the basics sometimes. So, if you're looking for a way to unplug for a bit and boost your well-being, try picking up a notebook today. Here are just a few benefits researchers have noticed. Processing Difficult Feelings Journaling can support a better, more positive mindset, and lessen feelings of despair or upset.  For one, it can help you process difficult emotions and experiences. You can use your journal to vent about the things stressing you out, without worrying about being judged or interrupting someone else's day. This can help you feel better equipped to deal with whatever is going on in your life. Self Esteem Boost Journaling can also help boost your mood and self-esteem by allowing you to track your progress and accomplishments over time. As you flip through previous entries, you'll see just how far you've come, which can help motivate you to keep going even when things are tough. For more about setting goals and keeping them, check out our tips here. Lower Stress Hormones, Better Sleep Physical health benefits have also been linked to journaling. One study found that people who wrote about stressful experiences had lower levels of stress hormones in their bodies afterward. In addition, keeping a routine of journaling can help improve your sleep quality. Lower stress hormone levels can set your mind and body at ease, so you have trouble sleeping, try writing down your thoughts and worries before bed. This will help clear your mind and allow you to relax enough to fall asleep. Supporting Lower Chronic Pain Flare-Ups Chronic pain sufferers have also found journaling to be helpful. In one study, people with chronic pain who wrote about their experiences had less pain and lower levels of disability afterward. This could be because chronic pain flare-ups are often linked to prolonged mental stress. Since keeping a journal can lower your stress hormone levels, you may be less likely to experience a flare-up. Creative Boost Another great benefit of journaling daily is that it can help increase your creativity. If you're feeling stuck in a rut with a work project or a hobby, spending some time writing down your thoughts and ideas can help jumpstart some great ideas. And creative thinking isn't just for artists! Strengthening your creative thinking skills has been linked to improved communication skills in the workplace, and stronger relationships overall. Tips for Designing Your Journal So how do you get started? It's important to find a system that works for you. Some prefer writing by hand in a notebook, and others prefer an open page with no lines, such as a sketchbook. There's no right or wrong way to do it, so experiment until you find a method that suits you best. You might want to incorporate drawings, colors, magazine clippings, images, or even paint! The possibilities to make it unique to you are endless. Also, don't worry about writing perfectly or having deep philosophical insights—the point is simply to get your thoughts down on paper. Journaling isn't about skill or impressing anyone. Put self-doubt aside and let yourself explore. Set aside 10-15 minutes each day (or week) to write and see how it goes! Make a habit of doing it at the same time, whether first thing in the morning or the last thing before bedtime. The EZ Melts DifferenceQuality 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. 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! The best part about choosing EZ Melts®? Our tablets are fast melting, EZ to take, and our flavors are loved by customers.

Read Time: 5 minutes  No one wants to spend fall laying around in bed while sneezing and sniffling, but unfortunately, cold and flu season is in full swing. Luckily, there are some things you can do for staying well during fall cold and flu season. Supplements   Vitamin C is a great place to start – it’s an essential nutrient that helps support a healthy immune system. Zinc in the right doses has also been shown to reduce the length of a cold's duration, so even if you do get sick, you should still take supplements to support the strength of your immune system.   Be sure to research your options when buying supplements so that you're getting the benefits from these vitamins. Our vitamins are non-GMO, fast-melting, vegan, sugar-free, and free from the nine most common allergens.   Immunity-Boosting Foods In addition to supplements, you can also help reduce your chances of getting sick by eating foods that boost immunity. Fermented foods like yogurt and kimchi are packed with probiotics, which have been shown to support immune function. Other immunity-boosting foods include garlic, ginger, and turmeric – all of which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.   Exercise in the Fall Another way to reduce your chances of getting sick is through self-care. It's important that your physical health is supported year-round, however, it's especially vital during cold and flu season. Exercise is not only great for your overall health, but it can also help boost your immunity. This can be done in several ways, including getting enough sleep, reducing stress, and eating a healthy diet. Exercise is also a great way to boost immunity, so make sure to get plenty of movement this fall. A moderate amount of exercise has been shown to increase the production of immune cells, which helps fight off infection. Just be sure not to overdo it – too much exercise can actually have the opposite effect. Bonus: this weather is perfect for enjoying longer hikes and exploring scenic trails.   Preventative Measures  Although there’s no guaranteed way to prevent getting sick during cold and flu season, there are some things you can do to minimize your risk. One of the best things you can do is get a flu shot – it’s not 100% effective, but it can help reduce your chances of getting the flu.  You can also take other simple steps, such as avoiding close contact with sick people. It’s a good idea to avoid crowded places like malls and public transportation during peak flu season if you can. If you can't avoid being around someone you know is sick, consider wearing a face mask, which is proven to significantly lower your chances of catching something airborne.  Washing Your Hands This one is always said, but you'd be amazed at how many people don't wash their hands properly. Hand-washing is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of germs and illnesses. Be sure to wash your hands often, especially after being in public places or coming into contact with someone who is sick. Wash for at least 30 seconds if not longer, and get in between your fingers and up to your wrist with soap and warm water. If you're in a public space, use your elbow or foot to open the bathroom door once you're done washing.   Sanitizing Surfaces One of the best ways to prevent getting sick is by sanitizing surfaces that you frequently come into contact with. This includes door handles, light switches, countertops, and anything else that gets touched often. You can use disinfecting wipes or spray, or make your own cost-effective sanitizer by mixing equal parts rubbing alcohol and water in a spray bottle.  By following these simple tips, you can help reduce your chances of getting sick this fall cold and flu season and staying healthy so you can enjoy the season.   A Vitamin Boost for your Immunity Routine 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. 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! The best part about choosing EZ Melts®? Our tablets are fast melting, EZ to take, and our flavors are loved by customers. 

Read Time: 4 minutes  Did you know that spending time and exercising outdoors can also have some pretty amazing benefits for your bones and energy? You don’t want to miss out on all the fall weather, so wherever you are, lace up those hiking boots and let’s start trekking. Here are just a few ways that getting out in nature can help support your bone and joint health, as well as give you a much-needed energy boost.   Building Strong Bones Exercise helps to build strong bones and joints. When you walk, run, or bike, your bones get a little bit stronger each time impact occurs. The more impacts (or “loading”) that occur, the greater the benefit to your bones. So not only does exploring the great outdoors give you a chance to get some exercise in the cooler fall weather, but it also provides an opportunity for your bones and muscles to receive regular endurance training.   Vitamin D From Mother Nature Being outside in natural sunlight helps your body produce vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for bone health, as it helps the body absorb calcium. In addition, getting enough vitamin D is critical for fighting off fatigue. If you’re feeling tired, spending time outside in the fresh air can help you feel more alert and awake. And if you’re struggling with fatigue, regular outdoor exercise has been shown to help increase energy levels both in the short term and over time. This is due not only to the stimulation of being in a beautiful environment but also because of sunlight exposure.   Endorphins vs Cortisol Numerous studies have shown that spending time in nature can help reduce stress levels, improve mood, and promote relaxation. If you’re feeling tense or anxious, take a walk in the park or go for a hike in the woods. You’ll likely find that your mood improves and you feel more relaxed after some time spent surrounded by trees and fresh air. Moderating your stress levels is also critical for bone density and joint health. When you’re stressed, your body releases the hormone cortisol, which can harm bone density by interfering with osteoblasts—the cells that produce bone mass. Cortisol has also been linked to joint pain and inflammation. But exercise produces endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects that can help counteract the negative effects of cortisol. And being outdoors while exercising? It’s a two for one.   Get Moving to Fall Asleep And last but not least, outdoor exercise can also help improve sleep quality. If you’re struggling with insomnia or other sleep issues, spending time outside during the day and getting regular exercise can help you sleep better at night. This supports your overall physical health and lower stress levels. So next time you’re having trouble sleeping, try going for a walk in the park during the daytime hours and see if it makes a difference.   A Vitamin Boost for Your Fall Activities Routine physical activity is essential for immunity, bone health, sleep quality, mental wellness, and metabolism, among others. Consider vitamin D, iron, and vitamin B supplements to support bone and joint health, and encourage optimal energy levels. 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!

Read Time: 6 minutes  Self-improvement goals can be daunting. This kind of inner work requires you to be honest about what you'd like to improve and then make consistent lifestyle changes to achieve it—and we humans aren’t often great with consistency. There’s a reason for that! People give up on lasting self-improvement goals when they’re unsure about how to get from Point A to Point B. You need to know exactly how you’re getting there and how to do it, with plenty of positive reinforcement on the way. This month is National Self-Improvement Month, so we created this simple but powerful roadmap to follow so you can finally make those desired changes in your life. Write It All Down The reason why the act of writing is so significant is that you are intentionally providing a clear picture of what you want to achieve. Your brain will recognize this as meaningful, and you'll have a physical reminder to look back at. Let yourself free-write for 15 minutes about what self-improvement changes you find inspiring, challenging, and important. Why do you feel that way? What about your overall quality of life will improve when you reach this self-improvement goal? Let it flow, then get ready to build your plan. Make a Detailed Plan Set the overall self-improvement goal, then break it down into goal markers and action items. It’s easier than you think! You need to define what you want to achieve, how long it will take, and the resources you need for this process. The more detailed your plan, the better your chance of reaching it. Setting realistic, small, and measurable self-improvement goals is one of the most important steps in changing your lifestyle. For example, it's not enough to have a single, vague goal like “quit smoking”. You have to break that goal down into smaller, measurable tasks, or goal markers, so you know when you’ve achieved them. This helps you stay on track and motivated to reach the next marker. Once you've broken down what needs to be done monthly, weekly, or daily, create an action item list for each day with small tasks that will help bring about the completion of the larger goal over time. For example, write down: Goal Marker 1: In the next 14 days, I will cut out one cigarette each day, so that I am smoking 5 instead of 6 per day. Action Items for Today: Take a walk today instead of smoking my afternoon cigarette Buy hard candy to distract myself with this month Call my friend to tell them I cut back starting today and how I’m feeling about it Pick an Accountability Partner This is a great way to create an environment of accountability and responsibility. You are more likely to follow through with your goals when you know that someone else is expecting those results from you. Make sure it’s someone trustworthy who wants to see you succeed while offering positive feedback and support. Pair Your Goal with Another Action This is a great way to start and follow through with new habits. Add an action to an existing routine that will help you reach your self-improvement goal. For example, if you want to start drinking water throughout the day, then drinking water should become your first activity in the morning when you brush your teeth or stretch. It will be easier to remember and do because you are pairing it with an action you already do daily. Write Down Your Progress Take three minutes a day, whip out a notebook or your phone, and write down what you did today to reach your self-improvement goals, what changes you are grateful for, or how you’re feeling about the process. And you don’t need to be an amazing writer; that’s not the point. You are simply logging your progress so that you stay motivated to continue with your self-improvement journey when you look back. Set Up a Reward System This one is the best step: pick something you really want to do or buy, then, when you hit your final goal marker, go out and get it! Is it going to Greece for a week? A spa day with a loved one? Trying a new restaurant that’s opening up? Getting a new phone? Or having a fun evening out to celebrate your wins? Whatever it is, use that as a motivation boost, then celebrate! You can even set up mini rewards along the way for every goal marker you hit if you want extra inspiration. Be Gentle with Yourself That adage about just getting back on the horse? It’s true—and everyone can get back up after a setback. If your progress is slower than you hoped, or you get frustrated or even take a step backward, it’s okay. It’s normal. It’s completely okay to make a choice that ends up not going the way you’d hoped. Once you choose to ignore perfectionist tendencies and instead focus that energy on doing the best you can at the moment, you’ll achieve progress in the long run. That’s what really matters. The EZ Melts Difference Taking a daily vitamin supplement is a simple yet effective way to benefit your long-term goals and your quality of life in the long run. 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.

Read Time: 7 minutes    All summer we’ve been BBQing and eating as many cold and refreshing foods as possible, but as fall approaches, we’re personally looking forward to nourishing seasonal meals. Since Labor Day is coming up, we’re sharing some of our favorite late summer recipes to celebrate, but these dishes can be easily made any day you feel like it. They’re packed with nutrition, color, and are simple but elegant — for any occasion, you may be planning with your loved ones for the rest of the year. Combine them all for a memorable dinner event! Appetizer: Eggplant and Heirloom Tomato Salad (VG, V) Looking for a salad to kick off a meal with, but want something a little more filling for your first course? Try this eggplant salad made with roasted chickpeas and heirloom tomatoes, plated on top of some mixed greens. It’s packed with color and looks impressive compared to a run-of-the-mill salad. Serves: 4-5 You’ll Need: 4 cups mixed greens, rinsed 3 cups small heirloom tomatoes, cherry tomato sized or diced if regular sized 2 medium eggplants or 3-4 Japanese eggplants 1 can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained 1 lemon 1/3 cup olive oil 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 2 tbsp olive oil, (to grill the eggplant and bake chickpeas) 2 tsp fresh dill or parsley 1 tsp paprika salt and pepper to taste Directions: Set oven to 350 F and take out a baking sheet. Drain and rinse the chickpeas and produce. Quarter cut your lemon. In a small bowl, coat chickpeas with a drizzle of olive oil (about 1 tbsp), a pinch of salt and pepper, 1 tsp paprika, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Mix well, then pour onto a lined baking sheet. Bake chickpeas for 12 minutes while doing other prep. Slice your eggplant into thin planks. To do so, cut in half lengthwise, then continue to make long slices lengthwise. Lightly drizzle olive oil (about 1 tbsp), salt, and pepper to taste on both sides. Use a grill or a pan on medium-high heat and once heated, place the eggplant slices. Cook for approximately 1-2 minutes on each side. Charred grill lines are preferable for taste and plating. Slice your tomatoes in half and divide between serving plates. Add eggplant, roasted chickpeas, and another squeeze of lemon juice to each plate. In a separate small bowl, mix the olive oil and balsamic vinegar and drizzle on the salad. Season with salt and pepper, sprinkle on dill and/or parsley, and serve.   Side Dish: Squash and Bacon Casserole (VG optional) Squash is highly underrated. Whether you use acorn, pumpkin, or butternut, this recipe will satisfy as a side dish, or on its own! Moving away from the summer seasonals like zucchini and yellow squash, the savory-sweetness of butternut is versatile and is kicked up a notch with cheese and bacon. This dish can also be made vegetarian! Just sub out the bacon for plant-based ground sausage. Serves: 6-8 You’ll Need: 1 package of thick-cut maple bacon (or ½ lb ground plant-based sausage/pork sausage) 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1" pieces 1 cup fresh shredded mozzarella 1 cup shredded cheddar or jack cheese ½ cup breadcrumbs 2 cups of chopped kale (1 bunch) 2 cloves garlic, sliced or diced 2 tbsp fresh sage. minced 2 tbsp fresh thyme, minced 1 tbsp dried parsley 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Directions: Preheat oven to 400° and coat a rectangular baking dish with nonstick baking spray. Cut the butternut squash into four pieces, then peel each piece and cut into medium cubes. Set aside. Add squash, kale, garlic, sage, and thyme with a drizzle of olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.  Toss to combine and pour into an even layer in a pre-greased baking dish. In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crisp, about 5 minutes. Cut cooked bacon into cubes (Or add crumbled sausage, precooked according to package directions, or 7 minutes for pork sausage). Sprinkle meat over the casserole top evenly. Bake casserole for about 25 minutes, checking intermittently. Top casserole with 2 cups of cheese in an even layer. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, dried parsley, and 1 tbsp olive oil, then top the casserole with it. Continue to bake until breadcrumbs are golden brown, and the squash is soft, testing with a knife, 10 to 15 minutes. Serve and enjoy!   Main: One-Pan Spicy Sesame Maple Salmon with Brussels and Apples This dish has everything: healthy protein and omega-3s, savory veggies, sweetness from the seasonal apples, and salmon with a spicy zing, all on one sheet pan. Minimal mess and minimal stress. The presentation looks impressive, and you can serve on the table right from the pan. Serves: 4 You’ll Need: 1 ½ pounds of fresh (not frozen) Atlantic salmon, cut into four filets 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil 1 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce 1 cup of maple syrup 1 tbsp cayenne pepper 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger 1 lemon 2 cups fresh Brussels sprouts, cut in halves 1 medium apple, diced 3 garlic cloves, sliced thinly 2 tsp fresh sage, minced 1 tsp rosemary, minced 1-2 tbsps. olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Sesame seeds Directions: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F and coat a large baking sheet with spray or aluminum foil (we like foil because it makes cleaning the pan a lot easier). In a large bowl, whisk the toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, maple syrup, fresh ginger, cayenne pepper, and a squeeze from a quarter lemon. Rinse and pat salmon dry then cut into 4 even filets widthwise. Set filets, skin side up, into the large bowl with the sesame maple marinade. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, but at least 1 hour. Rinse all produce. Dice apple, half Brussels sprouts, and slice garlic cloves. Mince fresh sage and rosemary. Place Brussels sprouts and apples in a second mixing bowl, coat with olive oil, mix in the garlic and sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle in sage and rosemary. Toss to coat evenly, then pour onto a baking sheet, leaving room in the middle for salmon filets. Bake veggies in the oven for 15-20 minutes, then take out. Place salmon filets in the middle of the same baking sheet, then put the salmon and veggies back in the oven until the salmon is just cooked through and slightly firm, about 10-15 minutes more. Serve and enjoy!    Dessert: No-Bake Cranberry Cheesecake-in-a-Jar If you’re tired of the same plain cranberry sauce served at every fall function, or it’s still a little too warm out on Labor Day, try these mini cranberry cheesecake jars. They’re a unique spin on the typical cranberry side dish. You can serve them in small mason jars OR make them in a pie pan…but no baking is necessary! It’s easy, relatively light, and doesn’t require the heat of a stove. What’s not to love? Serves: 10 You’ll Need: 2 cans cranberry sauce (whole cranberries) 2 cups full-fat cream cheese (blocks not whipped) 1 cup sugar 1 1/2 cups full fat sour cream or Greek yogurt 1 1/2 cups of heavy whipping cream 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 1/4 tsp salt (for graham cracker crust) 1 ½ cups finely ground graham cracker crumbs ⅓ cup white sugar 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Directions: Lay out 8-10 small mason jars (4oz). Crush graham crackers into crumbs in a large mixing bowl. Add sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon to a second bowl, and blend. Add graham cracker crumbs and mix well. Press graham cracker mixture into the bottom of the jars OR a 9-inch pie pan. In a third mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese bricks, sour cream or Greek yogurt, sugar substitute, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Add the cold heavy whipping cream into the cheesecake mixture slowly and whip until light and fluffy, 5 minutes. Spoon the cheesecake filling into the mason jars, halfway up, on top of the graham crust. Mix the canned cranberries well, then add them to the mason jars. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving. Enjoy!

Read Time: 5 minutes   If you're looking for cheap and healthy protein-rich meals that you can make ahead, look no further! In this blog post, we will share five of our favorite recipes for meal preps that are both affordable and nutritious.  Protein is an essential nutrient for so many different bodily functions, including healthy muscle mass, brain function, and building your body’s tissue, so it's important to include plenty in your diet. These recipes are all packed with protein and flavor, so you'll be sure to enjoy them! Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs The first protein-rich recipe is our Honey Garlic Chicken. This dish is made with chicken thighs, which are a great source of protein and very affordable. The honey and garlic give the chicken a delicious sweet and zesty flavor. Add steamed brown rice and your favorite veggies as sides, and you have an easy-prep dinner.  You’ll Need:  4-5 boneless skinless chicken thighs 1/4 cup white flour 1/4 cup honey  2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or Bragg’s aminos 3 garlic cloves, minced or pressed 1 tsp paprika 1 tsp garlic powder 1 tsp onion powder 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional) Salt and pepper to taste Chopped parsley for garnish   Directions: Preheat the oven to 375 F. Take the skin off the chicken thighs if you don’t have a skinless option. Mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper in a medium bowl. Coat the chicken thighs evenly on both sides. Season with salt and pepper, then place the thighs in a greased, oven-safe baking dish. Mix honey, soy sauce, or Bragg’s aminos, and minced garlic cloves in a separate bowl, then pour over the chicken. Turn each thigh over if needed to coat evenly. Cover the top with foil and bake for around 25 minutes, then take the foil off and continue baking for another 20 minutes. Top with fresh parsley, serve with veggies and rice, and enjoy! We like mashed sweet potatoes with brown sugar, butter, and steamed brown rice as sides. One-Pan Salmon Teriyaki & Bok Choy  Next up is our Salmon Teriyaki Bowl. Salmon is an excellent source of protein and omega-three fatty acids, making it a great choice for meat-eaters and pescatarians alike, while crunchy, crisp Bok choy is a popular Chinese cabbage full of vitamin C. This recipe also includes brown rice, so you'll get plenty of complex carbs and fiber as well. You’ll Need: 1 lb of farm-raised salmon cut into 2-3 pieces  4-6 baby Bok choy, cut into two halves lengthwise ¼ cup scallions (green onions), chopped fine ½ cup maple syrup ½ cup soy sauce (or Bragg’s aminos) 3-4 garlic cloves, minced 1 tsp sesame oil 1 tbsp cornstarch 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger OR 1 tbsp ginger powder 1 tbsp rice vinegar 1-2 tsp olive oil Sesame seeds for garnish Directions: Preheat the oven to 375 F. Mix the soy sauce or Bragg’s, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Marinate salmon in the bowl, coating evenly, for 1 hour — overnight max ahead of time.  Toss the sliced baby Bok choy with olive oil on a nonstick or lined large baking sheet and toss with olive oil directly on the sheet. Take salmon out of the fridge and carefully place pieces around Bok choy so that it is one even layer. Bake the salmon in the oven for about 17-20 minutes, or until the bulbs of the Bok choy are tender and slightly brown and crispy. Once the Bok choy is done, use tongs to remove it from the sheet pan and set it aside.  Turn the broiler on high and place salmon under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until cooked through and slightly crisp on top. It happens very quickly, so watch closely. Remove sheet pan from the oven. Place the Bok choy back on the pan with the salmon. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions and sesame seeds. Serve with steamed brown rice or jasmine rice and enjoy!  Chili Lime Chickpeas For the veg-lovers out there, we’re sharing our super simple Chili Lime Chickpeas recipe. This dish is vegan and packed with protein. The chickpeas are roasted in a chili lime sauce, giving them a zesty flavor that goes great with rice or quinoa. You’ll Need: Chili Lime Sauce 1 garlic clove, minced 1/3 cup olive oil 1-2 tbsp white wine vinegar 1 tbsp lime juice 2 tsp chili powder ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional) 1/2 tsp cumin Salt and pepper to taste  Chickpea Bowl 2 cups cooked/roasted chickpeas 1/2 red onion, finely diced 1 tomato, diced (about 3/4 cup) 1/3 cup cilantro, minced 3/4 cup cooked quinoa Salt and pepper to taste Directions:  Set oven to 325 F. Rinse and drain chickpeas. Bake chickpeas with a drizzle of olive oil on a lined sheet pan for 10-12 minutes, until slightly golden brown. Place in a large bowl. Cook quinoa according to package directions. Dice tomato and red onion, mince the cilantro and add to the bowl with chickpeas. Mix well with a large spoon.  Mix all the ingredients in a small bowl for the chili lime dressing. Pour the dressing into the large bowl over the chickpeas and let it sit for 15 minutes before serving.  Spoon into medium bowls and serve with a cilantro garnish and a lime wedge if desired. You can also add ½ cup of salad greens to each bowl, then spoon chickpeas over it for an extra filling, eye-catching dish. Enjoy!  We hope you love these recipes as much as we do. If you're looking for more healthy, delicious meal prep ideas, be sure to check out our other blog posts. Happy cooking!

Read Time: 3 minutes  In today's world, stress seems to be a constant companion. We're constantly juggling work, family, and social obligations, and it can be tough to find time for ourselves.  Which is why National Relaxation Day is so important. It's a time to focus on our mental well-being and take some time for ourselves. There are many ways to help yourself relax and enjoy being in the present moment. One of the best ways is through nutrition.  Certain nutrients can help improve our mood, reduce mental tension, and promote calmness. Here are some of the best stress-relieving nutrients to add to your diet. Magnesium One of the best stress-relieving nutrients is magnesium. Magnesium helps to relax the nervous system and has been shown to be effective in reducing stress and anxiety.  It can also help to improve sleep quality, which is important for overall stress management.  Foods that are high in magnesium include dark leafy greens, nuts, and seeds. L-Theanine & Melatonin Supplements like L-theanine and melatonin can help promote mental clarity and restful sleep, both key to living with less stress.  L-theanine is an amino acid that can be found in green tea, and it has been shown to promote relaxation without causing drowsiness.  Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate sleep by way of signaling your Circadian rhythm, and it can be effective in supporting a calm state of mind and body. Omega-3 Another great stress-relieving nutrient is omega-three fatty acids. Omega-three fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and have been shown to reduce stress levels and improve mood. They can also support healthy brain function and protect against cognitive decline.  Good sources of omega-three fatty acids include fish, nuts, and seeds.  Vitamin B-Complex Vitamin B-complex is another stress-relieving nutrient that can be found in many foods. Vitamin B-complex helps to support the nervous system, your cognitive health, and helps the body cope with stressors. It can also help to improve mood and reduce feelings of anxiety. Good sources of vitamin B-complex include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products, as well as natural supplements. Probiotics These beneficial bacteria are found in yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut. Probiotics help support a healthy gut which is essential for overall health and wellness.  Your gut supports your nervous system and lower levels of tension by making your serotonin production more available for your body to use. Probiotics also help to reduce stress-related hormones like cortisol. Herbs Herbs have been used for mental wellness properties for centuries. There are many different herbs that can be used to help you relax and unwind.  Some of the most popular stress-relieving herbs include chamomile, lavender, and the nootropic ashwagandha. These herbs can be consumed in tea form or taken in supplement form. — Stress is a part of life, but it doesn't have to control us. By incorporating stress-relieving nutrients into our diets, we can take back control and find some peace of mind. Make a commitment to relax and nourish your mind and body with stress-relieving foods and supplements. Make sure you choose a brand that cares about what they put into their supplements as much as you care about what goes into your body! EZ Melts supplements are all zero-sugar, vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO, so you know that you are getting effective supplements that won’t cause you harm. Join our subscription service to get 30% off your first order for a limited time.

Read Time: 4 minutes  Do you have bad habits that you'd like to break? If so, you're not alone. Many people struggle with habits they wish they could break for good, but don't know where to begin. The great news is that breaking patterns of behavior isn’t impossible. We'll cover methods, and supplements like citicoline, B6, and l-theanine – all of which can help make the process a bit less difficult. Plus, we'll also talk about EMME, a new supplement that may be able to help as well, so read on for all the details!   Identify Your Triggers The best way to stop unwanted behavioral patterns is to first identify the triggers that lead to the behavior. Once you know what causes you to engage in the bad habit, you can then begin to work on avoiding those triggers or finding alternative activities to do instead. For example, if you know that you tend to bite your nails when you're bored, make sure to keep your hands busy with something else whenever you feel yourself getting antsy. This could mean carrying around a fidget toy, playing with a stress ball, or even just keeping your hands busy by typing on your laptop or phone. If you struggle with overeating, reflect on what causes you to overeat. Do you really feel hungry, or are you indulging in an unwanted behavior because you're triggered by being bored, stressed, or angry?  If it's the latter, try to find other ways to cope with those emotions. Maybe that means creating a distraction, like going for a walk when you're feeling stressed instead of heading to the fridge.    Nutrients for Lessening Emotional Triggers Most bad habits are emotional responses triggered by a stressful feeling or negative event. In addition to developing ways to counter your habits so you can successfully break them, you can take supplements that support healthy cognitive function, physical relaxation, and lower stress levels.   Citicoline for Brain Power Citicoline supplements can be helpful for those trying to break bad habits. It's a natural nootropic that helps improve focus and concentration. Plus, it can also help to support lower stress levels and a calmer mental state. For these reasons, citicoline can be helpful in curbing bad habits that are caused by boredom or stress.  Additionally, citicoline has been shown to improve cognitive function. So not only can it help you break bad habits, but it can also help you think more clearly and make better decisions overall!   B-Vitamins (B6) for Breaking Habits B-vitamins, specifically B6, are nutrients also helpful for breaking bad habits. All B-vitamins are essential for many different bodily functions. They play a role in energy production, metabolism, and nervous system function. Several studies have shown that B vitamins can help to reduce the tension caused by stressors, which can be helpful in breaking bad habits triggered by emotions. In particular, B6 has been shown to be effective in promoting mental wellness and breaking habits that are caused by emotional responses. B6 is a vital nutrient for cognitive health and emotion regulation. It helps the body to produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood and sleep. B6 also helps to metabolize other neurotransmitters, including dopamine and norepinephrine. Low levels of B6 have been linked with depression, anxiety, and irritability. B6 supplements can be helpful for people who are deficient in this vitamin. For many people, taking a B vitamin can be a helpful way to support cognitive health, especially when trying to stop unwanted behaviors.   L-Theanine for Relaxation L-theanine is an amino acid found in green tea and supplement form. It's known for its calming and relaxing properties. L-theanine can help to support healthy stress responses and lower tension levels. Studies have shown that L-theanine supplements can help to reduce stress and anxiety while supporting mental clarity. Additionally, L-theanine has been shown to improve sleep quality. This is important because poor sleep can lead to increased stress levels and make it even harder to deal with emotional triggers. L-theanine works by increasing levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that has calming effects on the nervous system.   EMME: The All-In-One Supplement  EMME is a new supplement that was created to help with brain function and emotional responses. EMME is made with a special blend of ingredients that are designed to support healthy brain function and help to reduce unwanted behaviors. EMME contains citicoline, B-vitamins, and other nutrients that have been shown to be effective in breaking bad habits. EMME is a convenient way to get all of these nutrients in one supplement. Plus, EMME is easy to take and non-habit forming. You can take it with or without food, and you only need to take it once per day. If you're looking for a natural way to support your efforts to break bad habits, try EMME! It's a convenient way to get the nutrients you need for success. ___   Be sure to stock up on vitamin supplements for a cost-effective and easy way to help you live your best life and rid yourself of unwanted behavioral patterns.  Make sure you choose a brand that cares about what they put into their supplements as much as you care about what goes into your body! EZ Melts supplements are all zero-sugar, vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO, so you know that you are getting effective supplements that won’t cause you harm. Join our subscription service to get 30% off your first order for a limited time.

Read Time: 3 minutes  Summer is flying by! It’s going to be fall in a month, which means it's officially going to be flu season. Are you prepared?  One of the best ways to protect yourself against the flu besides getting the flu shot is to boost your immune system with vitamins and minerals. Many different foods are rich sources of immune-boosting nutrition. We’ve compiled a list of our seven favorites.  These foods have tons of antioxidants and other nutrients that will help keep you healthy during flu season, so stock up on these superfoods and stay healthy all fall and winter. Garlic This pungent little bulb is not only great for adding flavor to your cooking, but it's also a powerful natural antibiotic, which promotes a strong immune system response.  Garlic also has antiviral properties that can support your immune system when it is fending off the flu virus. In addition, it contains compounds like allicin and sulfides, which fight viruses and bacteria. Green Tea  Green tea is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Green tea also has antiviral properties that may help fight the flu virus, and it’s also a great source of polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, you can’t beat a warm cup of tea on a chilly fall day. Ginger People have used ginger as a natural remedy for nausea and vomiting for centuries, but this spicy, warm root is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce flu symptoms. Turmeric Turmeric is a beautiful golden-colored spice that is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It can also help boost the immune system and fight off infection. Try using it in soup or a golden milk latte, and you’ll never want to be without this sunshine-colored spice again! Spinach  Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, essential for a robust immune system. Vitamin A helps to protect against infection, while vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that boosts immunity. Vitamin C also enhances your body’s absorption of iron. Oranges  Oranges are rich in vitamin C, essential for a powerful immune system. Vitamin C helps to protect cells from damage and aids in producing white blood cells, which are key in fighting infections and boosting your immune system due to its natural antibiotic properties. In addition, vitamin C can help reduce the severity of cold symptoms while you are sick. Yogurt Yogurt contains beneficial probiotic bacteria that help support the immune system. Probiotics are also helpful in maintaining a healthy digestive system, which is essential for overall health. In addition, yogurt is a fantastic source of calcium— known to activate your immune system’s cells. __ So, there you have it – our list of the best foods to boost your immunity during flu season! Be sure to stock up on these superfoods and go one step further with a cost-effective, easy daily routine—we’re talking about vitamin supplements. Make sure you choose a brand that cares about what they put into their supplements as much as you care about what goes into your body! EZ Melts supplements are all zero-sugar, vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO, so you know that you are getting effective supplements that won’t cause you harm. Try our Essential Immune Bundle, and join our subscription service to get 30% off your first order for a limited time.

There’s a lot more you can do to protect your eyes other than wear sunglasses in the summer (love those frames, btw). Eyes need protection year-round, but especially when the sun is beating down on you. This tends to happen more often in most places during the warmer spring and summer months when people head outside en masse, so what better time to write about eye health? Hindsight is 20/20, pun intended, so practicing good eyecare habits starting today is the best way to lower your risk of health conditions down the road. Long-term sun exposure can cause cataracts, photokeratitis (like a sunburn on your corneas, ouch), and even cancer on your eyelids. Here are five ways to keep those peepers in their prime during time well-spent outdoors. UV ProtectionWe know we already mentioned sunglasses, but make sure they’re legit. To really block out harmful UV rays from the sun which can fry your eyes, look for the sticker that confirms they protect against UVB and UVA rays. Eye DropsEyes burning or feeling like raisins in the sun after a long day by the pool? Sunlight and high temps can dry them out, so get quality, lubricating eye drops to help soothe irritation.Don’t overuse them, however! Using them more than recommended can dry them out further.  Wear a Wide-Brimmed HatThis one’s self-explanatory, wink wink. Make sure it provides shade for your eyes. Hydration and FoodHydrating is essential in the summer, as you lose more water through sweating. In addition, if you’re not getting enough water, it’s hard for your eyes to produce tears, which is needed to prevent certain eye conditions.In addition, eating a diet high in vitamin A and the nootropic citicoline is vital to keep your eyes at their best.Unfortunately, 25% of people are still deficient in vitamin A, and while citicoline is found in some foods, it’s more beneficial to take a supplement. Vitamin A and CiticolineEnsure you’re getting what your eyes need by taking high-quality supplements of vitamin A and citicoline.Vitamin A is essential for eye health and vision. It helps keep your corneas clear and protects your vision.And according to the National Cancer Institute, citicoline is used by doctors for its studied ability to shield nerves by strengthening their membranes.Citicoline has been used for centuries in Asia as a natural treatment for many ailments, but it is just now being studied and used to lower the risk of glaucoma, a condition that causes irreversible damage and vision. Studies are showing that citicoline does work to reduce visual decline.The combination of vitamin A and citicoline can be a powerful supplement regimen to give your eyes a fighting chance against permanent eye damage in the long run.   The EZ Melts Difference When buying your citicoline and vitamin A supplements, make sure you’re choosing a brand that cares about what you put in your body as much as you do. EZ Melts supplements are all zero-sugar, vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO, so you know that you are getting effective supplements that won’t cause you harm. Join our Subscribe & Save program today to save 15% on recurring orders of your favorite supplements. There’s no commitment – you can skip, pause, or cancel your subscription at any time. Thank you for being a part of the EZ Melts community.

Warmer days bring a great amount of restorative relaxation, time spent in fun outdoor activities, and more vitamin D production from the sun. All of these factors can enhance your mood and energy levels…but there is a flip side to this. Longer days and warm summer nights can actually make it really hard for people to fall asleep and stay asleep. In addition, many people find that it can be harder to sleep until their usual alarm and find themselves awake before they want to be. This can lead to grogginess, lower productivity, and of course, lower energy levels. Why does this happen? Here are five ways that summer interferes with your ZZZs, and what you can do to support deep, restful sleep. Warmer Room Temperature Warmer nights actually disrupt sleep rather than aid it. There actually is an ideal temperature for optimal rest, which is around 67-69 F. Anything higher than 70 F is shown to interfere with your REM cycle, which is when your body gets deep, restorative sleep. As heat rises, so does the likelihood of restlessness and rising internal temperature, which works against your REMs. Summer Vacation Plans Summer is when a lot of people travel and vacation in the US. With that often comes jet lag, different time zone adjustments, and more exciting day and evening activities that make it hard to get quality sleep. For some people, it’s less about excitement and anticipation than it is about the stress of packing, planning, traveling, and scheduling adventures. Either way, your sleep cycle can be all over the place, and stressors or exciting experiences can affect the quality of your rest. Seasonal Allergies A lot of seasonal allergies happen in the summer months, which makes it really difficult to stay asleep. In fact, according to the Sleep Foundation, people who suffer from allergies are more likely to develop snoring, sleep apnea, insomnia, and short, restless sleep cycles. Many people wake up frequently with a stuffy nose, cough, irritated eyes, and more, which makes it hard to get quality rest as well as stay in dreamland. You're Eating Later Because daylight hours are longer in the summer, people tend to eat dinner a little later too. However, eating later but keeping your bedtime routine the same is proven to be a bad idea. When there are fewer hours in between your last meal and dozing off, your body has a difficult time metabolizing and digesting food. Turning food into energy also triggers insulin release which can mess with your body’s sleep-wake cycle. Professionals suggest that your last meal is 2-3 hours before bed to allow for proper digestion and minimal stomach upset. Try to limit spicy and caffeinated foods and drinks before bed as well. Longer Days Your circadian rhythm—the biological clock that tells your body when to sleep and when to be active—is affected by the increased daylight hours during the summer. This is because light delays your body from producing melatonin, the hormone your brain produces that signals your natural rhythm that it’s time to sleep. In addition, your body halts production in the AM as well, which means when the sun comes up sooner, your body is active sooner. In a nutshell, Longer days = less melatonin. A Natural Solution Rather than take OTC options that leave you groggy and tired, try a natural option: take a melatonin supplement 30-60 minutes before bedtime. For even better results, combine melatonin at night with an l-theanine supplement during the day to support lower stress levels and increased relaxation, which will help your body when it’s time to sleep. The combination will help you stay calm and focused during the day while more effectively signaling your circadian rhythm that it’s bedtime at night. The EZ Melts Difference Quality matters. Make sure you are choosing a brand that cares about what they put into their 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 pairing melatonin with a daily l-theanine supplement to support better days and easy ZZZs.

When you think about your physical health, how often does taking care of your blood come to mind?  We never talk about it! Taking care of our bones, muscles, heart, digestion, and more, yes…but just our blood health, in and of itself? We don’t hear it mentioned often, yet it should be because red and white blood cells keep your entire body functioning. Think of your bloodstream like a city’s around-the-clock subway system and your veins as the rails.  Red blood cells transport nutrients, hormones, and oxygen to your entire body while getting rid of toxins like carbon dioxide through your lungs. Meanwhile, white blood cells, or leukocytes, are the soldiers of your immune system, attacking any disease or infection that crosses their path. Blood cannot be replaced, so let’s take care of it, shall we? Here are the best ways to keep that blood pumping at its best.   Stay Hydrated Drinking water keeps blood cells hydrated, which in turn, keeps your blood circulating faster and helps to regulate your blood pressure and heart rate. Set a reminder in your phone to get at least 64oz of fresh, filtered water per day—you might need even more depending on different health factors and lifestyles. Check out what the Heart Foundation recommends here.   Iron-Rich Diet Iron is a huge component of hemoglobin, which is the essential protein in red blood cells. Iron is incredibly essential to your body’s ability to keep all systems operating at their finest, so be sure to eat foods rich in iron. Even eating nutritious food might not be enough. About 25% of adults worldwide are iron deficient, so consider taking an iron supplement.    Folate and B-12 Folic acid and folate are technically the same vitamin: B9. Folate is naturally found in foods, while folic acid is the synthetic version. Both are safe and approved by the FDA. Folate is found in whole foods such as leafy greens like spinach and broccoli, chickpeas and kidney beans, liver, and more. Whether you get B9 through food or supplements, it’s digested, converted into an active form that the body can use, and enters the bloodstream. B12, on the other hand, is essential for creating new cells, including blood cells. No B-12, and you’ll have a slew of symptoms on your hands. To make matters worse, B-12 is on the list of most popular vitamin deficiencies. B-12 is mainly found in animal products, which makes vegans and vegetarians especially vulnerable. A great way to bridge the gap is by taking a daily supplement. Vitamin B12 and B9 work together to help the body process iron and metabolize it, as well as create healthy blood cells. Taking a combination of the three in supplement form helps your blood help YOU, and it’s one of the easiest ways to ensure you’re getting the right amounts.   The EZ Melts Difference It’s important to have a daily routine of feeding your body the nutrients it needs. Supplements are the easiest and quickest way of ensuring you get the correct amount. Many vitamin supplements are solid and have a ton of chemical additives, which can cause stomach upset, so quality matters. Make sure you are choosing a brand that cares about what they put into their supplements as much as you care about what goes into your body. Check out our Zero-Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, quick melting tablets in customer-approved flavors!

Read Time: 5 minutes What summer holiday is better? When someone mentions the phrase “4th of July” the grilling outdoors, spending time with loved ones, and parades come to mind. Speaking of grilling, our love of summer cookouts has inspired these simple recipes. Bonus: every dish can be made under an hour, so if you’re running to your family BBQ, you’ll have something quick but delicious to bring over in a snap. Whether you’re looking for something sweet or savory, we’ve got you covered, including plant-based and no-bake options.   Spicy Vegan Curried Coleslaw (VG, V) Some people pass over coleslaw at a cookout for looking a little lackluster. However, no one will be able to resist this unique, spicy spin on the usual slaw put out on the picnic table (it’s great on pulled pork sandwiches too!). It’s also a beautiful, sunny color, perfect for a summer celebration. You’ll Need: ½ head of white cabbage ¼ head of purple cabbage ½ cup of shredded carrots  ½ red onion 5 dried apricots ½ cup of sultanas (aka yellow raisins, optional) 2 teaspoons of curry powder ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper(if the curry powder isn’t spicy enough, use discretion) 3 tablespoons plain vegan yogurt 3 tablespoons vegan mayo Directions: Peel and thinly slice the red onion and soak in water. Take out a large bowl. Thinly slice the purple and white cabbage, as close to matchstick size as you can. The easiest way is to use a food processor. Add the shredded carrots to the bowl, and mix well. Chop the dried apricots into thin pieces  and add to the bowl, along with the sultanas (they are optional, but add an irresistible sweet kick!) Drain the water from the red onion, then add it to the bowl. Mix the yogurt, mayo, and curry powder until well combined in a small bowl. If you prefer a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper sparingly to taste. Put the mixture into the large bowl. Add a dash of salt and mix, taste, and adjust as necessary. Refrigerate until ready to serve, and enjoy!   All-American Chili Cheese Dogs We had to throw a classic in here: hot dogs. But we didn’t stop there: adding chili on top is really going the extra mile for your guests, and it’s actually so simple! The only real cooking is making the chili below and grilling the dogs. The recipe below only takes 30 minutes! If you would like, make a “hot dog bar” with all the fixings, plant-based alternatives, and meatless chili. Trust us, everyone will be lining up.   You’ll Need: All-beef hot dog links Hot dog buns Diced white onion Shredded cheddar or Colby jack cheese (or both!)   For the chili (meat or meatless) 3 cups plant-based crumbles (or 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey) 1 yellow onion ½ cup jarred, sliced jalapeños (optional, also can put on the side as a topping) 6 cups of canned, diced, roasted tomatoes ¼ cup olive oil 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon oregano 2 tablespoons chili powder 1 tablespoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon cumin 2 teaspoons kosher salt 1 cup water (optional) Directions: Add meat crumbles to a pan with a drizzle of olive, pepper, and salt. Cook thoroughly on medium-high heat. If using frozen veggie crumble, skip this step. Dice the white and yellow onions and set them aside. Keep separate. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large stock pot. Cook the yellow onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the veggie crumbles or ground meat and cook 1 more minute. Add the diced tomatoes and juice from the can, jarred jalapenos, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, oregano, garlic powder, cumin, and salt. Simmer for 15 minutes. If it’s thick like paste and not like stew, add little amounts of water at a time until the right consistency (up to 1 cup). Add hot sauce to taste. Serve warm as a topping for the hot dogs. Grill hot dog links until browned at serving time, and place raw diced white onions, shredded cheese, jalapenos, chili, and buns next to a platter of links. Yum!   Vegan Buffalo Seitan Wings It’s easy to find side dishes that are vegan, because a lot of recipes will spring for a vegetable of some sort and call it a day, but there are great, quick vegan entrees too that meat and plant lovers will crowd around. For example: Seitan buffalo “wings”. Seitan is a versatile starchy protein alternative made from wheat gluten, and mimics the texture of meat, yet is 100% plant-based! Try it out with your favorite dipping sauce.   You’ll Need: 1 pound seitan, sliced into strips 2 teaspoons garlic powder ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular) 1 teaspoon onion powder Salt and pepper Cooking oil appropriate for frying 1/3 cup vegan butter, melted 1/2 cup hot sauce or wing sauce (we like the classic buffalo) Dipping sauce     Directions Chop seitan into large “wing-sized” chunks. Coat with the spices, add a little sprinkle of salt and pepper and coat a large frying pan with oil, turn to medium-high. Lightly fry over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned on all sides. Melt vegan butter in 5-second intervals in the microwave. In a medium bowl mix the melted margarine and hot sauce of your choosing. Add the fried seitan to the mixture and stir it to coat well. The marinade will firm up as it cools. Serve hot with celery, carrots, and dipping sauce!   Very-Berry Cheesecake Bars Berries are a sweet seasonal treat, and they are the main feature in these no-bake cheesecake bars. Bonus: the colors are on point for the red-white-and-blue festivities. If you’re vegan, just sub out the honey graham crackers and dairy. Did we mention no-bake?   You’ll Need: 1 cup large honey graham cracker pieces (break in a closed plastic bag) A small dash of salt ⅓ cup canola oil 16 ounces of reduced-fat cream cheese 2 cups nonfat plain Greek yogurt ⅔ cup confectioners' sugar 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 tablespoon lemon juice 4 cups of berries (strawberries & blueberries recommended)   Directions: Blend graham cracker pieces and a small pinch of kosher salt in a food processor or blender until finely ground. With the motor running, add oil and combine. Press into a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Add cream cheese, confectioners' sugar, lemon zest, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice to the food processor. Blend until smooth. Smooth mixture over the crust in an even layer. Cover and refrigerate until cold, at least 2 hours and up to 1 day. When serving, top with berries and cut into squares and enjoy. The crust and cream cheese mixture will last in the refrigerator for up to 1 day if you would like to make it ahead.

Read Time: 4 minutes   Break out the picnic blankets and sunscreen—you can enjoy the great outdoors and do something great for your body, effortlessly. We’re talking about vitamin D, and it’s essential for more than its reputation for supporting bone health.  When you spend time in the sun, your skin produces vitamin D when UVB rays interact with a protein in your body called 7-DHC.  However, protecting your skin from too much sun exposure is just as important as naturally producing vitamin D. So how do you have fun in the sun without upping your risk of skin conditions like cancer?  Read on for warning signs of D deficiency and tips to stay safe out there this summer. Vitamin D Deficiency Time in the sun can stimulate vitamin D production. Still, it's easy to develop a deficiency if you don't get enough sun, have pre-existing conditions, or have an unbalanced diet.  If you find yourself working long office hours or not spending a lot of time outside, it is easy to develop a deficiency. Other factors that increase the likelihood of a vitamin D deficiency include:  Celiac's disease chronic kidney/liver disease taking some long-term heartburn medication being elderly darker skin Vitamin D deficiency is linked to: muscle weakness slow wound healing mood swings fatigue not related to other conditions bone and back pain becoming ill often hair loss bone loss increased risk of fractures, falls, and osteoporosis How Much Vitamin D Do You Need? Currently, the NIH recommends that adult women get around 600 IU or 15 mcg of vitamin D per day, and for adult men, about 600 IU or 15 mcg, but it may vary according to your needs.   There are dietary sources of vitamin D — but they're somewhat limited, especially if you have a vegan or vegetarian diet.  Be mindful of what you’re getting from your food and how much time you spend in the sun. It’s summer now, but in the winter months, especially if you live in a colder climate, it can be more difficult to get outdoors.  If you find that you are not getting enough vitamin D through lifestyle and diet, supplements can be an easy and safe way to fill the gap.  How Much Sunlight Do You Need for Vitamin D? Diet and supplements aside…how much sun are we talking about here? For most people, safe sun exposure is key, and research studies say you really only need about 9-25 minutes, in the sun per day depending on your skin tone to produce some vitamin D.  There needs to be more research conducted on this for people with darker skin tones, but the message here is you don’t need to spend hours and hours per day sitting in the sunlight.  With that in mind, here are some tips on how to stay safe while you soak in some rays. Staying Safe In the Sun Pick the Right Time to Bask In the Sun The sun’s UVB rays are at their strongest midday, so if you can get out around lunchtime, even if you work in an office, a few minutes will make a difference. Think less time, and more potency when spending time in the sun. Expose More Skin  Wearing light clothing that exposes more skin to the sunlight is the best way to quickly produce vitamin D. Try a tank top and shorts to maximize the benefits, but only do so for short periods of time.  Wearing Sunscreen is Still Important Your health is crucial, so balancing out sun exposure with preventative measures can still allow for your body to make vitamin D while still protecting you against skin damage. Yep, that means wearing sunscreen is still crucial. In fact, studies show that routinely using at least SPF 15 reduces the likelihood of developing carcinoma by 40 percent, AND does not stop vitamin D production. So slather on some sunscreen this summer, grab your shades and a water bottle, and make it a goal to enjoy the sun every day for at least a few minutes—your body will thank you. The EZ Melts Difference While you may be able to find supplements elsewhere, it’s finding quality products made to digest effectively and safely that matters. Make sure you are choosing a brand that cares about what they put into their supplements as much as you care about what goes into your body.  EZ Melts supplements are all zero-sugar, vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO, so you know that you are buying the best. Thank you for being a part of the EZ Melts community!

Read Time: 3 minutes It’s time to break out the Dad bods and tuck into some awesome brunch recipes that any parent would love to eat on Father’s Day. These recipes are inspired by grilling, chilling, and spending summer days with family and friends. #1 Dad’s French Toast Casserole  You know the drill: this sweet bread pan fried and served with butter and maple syrup is a classic brunch fave. Plus, a casserole makes it easy to serve many people. Try this unique spin, made with fresh blueberries and cream cheese. Just make sure the eggs and bread mixture sits for a minimum of 2 hours before baking. Ingredients 1 french bread loaf or brioche loaf (approx. 8-9 cups) 8 eggs 2 1/2 cups half and half or whole milk 1/2 cup sugar 1 8 oz package cream cheese, light or regular cubed 2 tsp vanilla extract 2 tsp cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 ½ cups fresh blueberries or frozen blueberries (fresh preferred), rolled in 1 tbsp flour  To Make:  Butter or spray a 9 x 13 casserole dish. Cut bread into medium cubes(doesn’t need to be perfect). In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs, cream or milk, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla and salt. Whisk until mixed and smooth. Put half of the bread cubes in casserole dish. Top with half cream cheese cubes and half of blueberries rolled in flour. Layer the remaining bread cubes and top with the remaining blueberries and cream cheese cubes.  Pour egg mixture over bread cubes. Make sure all bread cubes are covered. Cover with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to overnight. The Day Of: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Remove plastic wrap and sprinkle casserole with raw sugar. Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in oven for 30 minutes. Take off the foil and bake an additional 20-30 minutes or until the center is firm and bread is golden. Serve up!  Grilled Supreme Sausage & Fruit Skewers  Okay, we KNOW this is an excuse to use the grill, but hey, you can’t beat the smell and taste of chargrilled food cooked out in the open. Pair these with some sweet fruits like sliced mango, pineapple and peaches, and soak it all in syrup for a sweet spin. Ingredients 8 large pork or chicken sausage links (10-12 oz. total, check out deli) uncooked and halved in two pieces each Assortment of pineapple, peach, and mango, cut into medium chunks 1-2 cups maple syrup, or syrup of your choice 1 tsp. cayenne pepper Wooden skewers To Make:  The night before, make a mixture of syrup and cayenne pepper in a large bowl. Cut sausages in half and fruit into 1-2 inch chunks. Place in sausages and fruit in bowl. Let sit overnight. The morning of, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes, then alternate putting sausage and fruit on skewers. Should make 8 skewers. Prepare grill on medium-high heat.  Grease the grill. Grill skewers turning once, until charred in spots and the sausage is cooked through, 7 to 10 minutes. Enjoy! Father’s Day Frittata Cups Eggs are a brunch staple for many, and round out the rest of our menu nicely. Plus these frittatas are made with a muffin tin, so they are grab-and-go sized. They also make a cute bite-sized tower on any breakfast table. Add whatever you want to them, but we like fresh veggies in ours. Ingredients 10 large eggs ½  cup milk or milk substitute 1 garlic clove, minced paprika sea salt black pepper 1 cup of thinly sliced zucchini 1 cup diced red and green bell peppers ¼ cup scallions ⅓ cup cheddar cheese To Make Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic, and a sprinkle each of salt and pepper. Pour a little egg mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup. Put peppers, zucchini, cheddar, and scallions into each cup then pour the remaining egg mixture on top (or whatever veggies/meat/cheese options you want). Bake for 20 to 22 minutes or until the eggs are set. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let cool, stack and serve!  

Read Time: 3 minutes Nutrition is one of the biggest influencing factors on our health and wellbeing, so it’s probably why people are always trying to modify their diets to meet their wellness goals. Living gluten-free is becoming increasingly popular in mainstream culture, with celebrities and health influencers alike touting its many benefits. However, a gluten-free diet for people with certain health conditions like Celiac’s Disease is not a choice; it’s mandatory.  It’s hard to know fact from fiction surrounding gluten with so much information circulating out there, so let’s break down some common gluten-free facts and myths. Gluten-Free Diet Myths and Facts Gluten is Bad. Myth. Gluten isn’t bad or good. It’s simply a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye grains. Our bodies don’t have the enzymes needed to metabolize the proteins in gluten completely.  But good news: our immune system can help with that, and unprocessed gluten ends up in the small intestines on its way out. You Can Lose A Lot of Weight By Going Gluten-Free. Myth. There is such a wide spectrum of nutrient-dense and nutrient-void foods that it’s possible to lose OR gain weight if you go gluten-free, depending on pre-existing medical conditions and/or food choices. Many gluten-free foods are higher in fat and carbs while being low in fiber and whole grains, and the latter are needed for metabolism and digestion.  A Gluten Allergy Is the Same as a Gluten Sensitivity. Myth. There is actually no such thing as a gluten allergy. A gluten sensitivity, or gluten intolerance, is a non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS).  With NCGS you may feel sick or bloated. Someone with Celiac’s who eats gluten can negatively impact their health in the long run. If You Suffer From a Wheat Allergy You Must Follow a Gluten-Free Diet. Myth. A wheat allergy doesn’t equal a gluten allergy as well. Gluten is a protein found in wheat. Gluten-free foods are often made with wheat, and some foods that are labeled wheat-free contain gluten. If you have either a wheat allergy or gluten sensitivity, make sure you learn how to read the label.  If You’re Allergic to Wheat and Eat It, It Can Result in a Severe Reaction. Fact. Consuming gluten won’t cause an immediate life-threatening reaction in people with gluten intolerance or Celiac’s. However, eating wheat with a wheat allergy CAN definitely result in a severe reaction, as any food allergy can do.  Gluten is Only Found in Wheat. Myth. People think that gluten is only found in wheat, but it is a binding protein found in rye and barley as well.  A Gluten-Free Diet Can Help With Diabetes Management. Fact/Myth. The jury is out on this one. Foods with heavy carbohydrates create a glucose imbalance in people with diabetes.  Avoiding gluten doesn’t necessarily help manage diabetes. While gluten is found in products with carbohydrates, gluten itself does not affect blood glucose levels. For example, there are sauces, cooking ingredients, soups, and other sources low on carbs that contain gluten.  Other studies suggest that there could be a link between diabetes and a diet high in gluten. It’s always best to consult a medical professional before starting a new diet, especially when you have pre-existing health conditions. Gluten-Free Supplements EZ Melts supplements fit your diet and lifestyle, regardless of whether you eat gluten or not. Our vitamins are gluten-free, 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!