EZ Melts Health Blog

Read time: 3 minutes Vitamin B1 is also called thiamine. It is vital for so many processes in your body you can’t survive without! When taken in proper amounts, it supports your immune system, metabolism, and even cell reproduction. In addition, studies are being done in relation to taking B1 to support less mental strain. There are many foods that naturally contain thiamin, however, most people get this vitamin in fortified foods and supplements. Foods rich in vitamin B1 are: Yeast, nuts, whole grains, and eggs Meats like beef and pork Liver Fruits and vegetables like oranges, cauliflower, potatoes, asparagus, and kale Fortified flours However, many groups of people are susceptible to being deficient and at risk of side effects and conditions, like vegans, vegetarians, pregnant women, as well as people who consume a lot of alcohol on a regular basis. What’s more, is that cooking foods with B1 destroys the vitamin’s value. Many people will therefore take B1 or the full range of Bs, called B-Complex, to ensure the daily requirements are met. Read below to see some of the reasons a B1 supplement is a good idea. Benefits of Vitamin B1 1. Lowers Likelihood of Kidney and Heart Disease Vitamin B1 is believed to be connected with healthier kidney function. In fact, in subjects with type 2 diabetes, liver disease is more likely to occur because of the stress put on the organ. In some studies, taking thiamine at high doses is shown to reduce stressors in the body that tax the liver. 2. Supports a Strong Immune System Like many of the other vitamin Bs, B1 is linked to supporting the immune system’s functioning, which in turn promotes optimal wellbeing. In part, vitamin B1 is believed to do this by assisting the body in its ability to tolerate external and internal stress. 3. Supports Cognitive Well-Being Studies are being done in relation to taking B1 to support less mental strain and healthier cognitive function. Scientists believe that vitamin B1 deficiency is linked to depressive symptoms, mental health, and the onset of dementia. Vitamin B1 supplements may be a way to ensure that your brain can operate at maximum efficiency and support anti-aging. 4. Nerve Health Thiamine has long been connected to nerve health and functioning. It helps nerves to signal muscle contractions and reactions to stimuli, and it is vital for both the peripheral and central nervous systems (PNS and CNS). Vitamin B1 helps develop and maintain neural transmitters, in part by developing the myelin sheath; the protective covering on nerves. Thiamine Deficiency: Signs and Symptoms Not sure about your B1 intake? Here are some signs you may be deficient: Anemia Weakened cardiovascular system Depressive symptoms Loss of appetite, which in some cases leads to anorexia Imbalance, tingling in limbs Confusion and severe memory loss, as well as being linked to the higher likelihood of dementia The EZ Melts Difference It’s often hard to find B1 supplements on their own outside of the B-Complex supplements out there, but we have you covered. Our vitamin B1 supplement is fast melting and has a delicious customer-approved flavor. Unlike many major vitamin brands, our tablets are vegan and do not include harmful ingredients, artificial flavors, or GMOs. Try us out and see the difference!  ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Read time: 3 minutes Sleep and stress are interconnected, and if either piece gets out of whack, it can really affect you around the clock. When you experience high levels of mental strain consistently, it impacts your physical health, including the ability to fall and stay asleep. And conversely, if you have an abundance of energy at night and cannot hit the hay, your body is more prone to moodiness and a lower tolerance for environmental stressors. And it’s not uncommon to be restless—about 70 million people in the US alone suffer from sleepless nights. However, it’s important to prioritize because during rest our bodies are healing and replenishing double-time. Here are just a few of the benefits: High metabolism and physical performance Repairs muscle tissue Supports a healthy immune system Better focus Promotes a calm, uplifted, and even mood Skin health Supports organ health and function Luckily there are ways that we can support good rest at night and calm our stress during the day through exercise, proper nutrition, and supplements with natural compounds like L-theanine. L-theanine is an amino acid found in some natural sources as well as supplements. Studies have shown that there are many benefits with respect to the immune system, quality rest, mental clarity and supporting a less stressful state of mind. The best part is that it encourages a state of relaxation and ease without drowsiness—a big bonus if you are looking to use it during the day! However, L-theanine can also be used to encourage relaxation at night, so you can wind down in the evening and enjoy decompressing. The act of supporting a lower stress state is helpful so that your body is able to listen to your sleep-wake cycle and is more likely to allow you a good night’s sleep. Scientists believe that L-theanine works by telling certain brain chemicals (like cortisol, the stress hormone) to calm down while activating others (like GABA and dopamine, the happy, calm hormones). Bonus: lower levels of excitatory chemicals like GABA and dopamine may support lower blood pressure and improved focus, as well as a general feeling of calmness in the long term. As it’s not typically easy to get an adequate amount from food sources, supplements are your best bet if you are looking to support mental wellness naturally. Talk to your medical provider about adding a natural sleep and stress support like L-theanine to your regimen. Practicing healthy habits in combination with an L-theanine supplement can support a more resilient mindset! 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. Check out our L-theanine tablets in a customer-approved delicious flavor! Thank you for being a part of our community!  ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Read time: 4 minutes Life requires a lot of us—with errands, work, home life, and everything in between. It can be hard to juggle all your roles and responsibilities. And after a long winter (and a long year), it’s hard to get back into the swing of daily life. You may find yourself sluggish after the holidays and adjusting to the idea of everything being back in full swing. People are going back to offices and school in person, and it can be a big adjustment after the turmoil of the pandemic. If you are feeling exhausted from stress, facing sleepless nights, and have difficulty concentrating and performing everyday tasks, you are not alone. According to reports, people are feeling strained, drained, and on the verge of burnout from 2020—just as the world is starting to expect us to “go back to normal”. It’s important more than ever to focus on taking care of our physical and emotional needs as we process it all, but at EZ Melts, we recognize that it is vital to keep performing and being present for work, family, friends, and life as we try to find balance in this ever-changing world. So here are some tips for supporting your mood, performance, and energy levels as we navigate this together. Keeping a Calm Mindset It’s important to process our emotions and maintain a sense of balance and calm, not only for our emotional health but our physical health too, as stress impacts not only our minds but our bodies too. Here are some things you can try: Meditation and yoga; even five minutes of sitting still and practicing makes a difference Deep breathing in moments of high tension Exercise regularly doing something you enjoy—try to get a combination of anaerobic and aerobic workouts Make a point to spend quality time with friends and family, or call people you can’t come into contact with right now Find a hobby that distracts your mind and makes you feel accomplished Journal and keep track of moods and what caused them Keeping Sharp The parts of our brain that affect our recall and response time can be impacted by many environmental factors, including lack of physical health, mental strain, and even disease. With the stress of the past year, it’s important to keep sharp and supporting brain health with a variety of techniques aimed to keep us centered and focused, regardless of where we are or what we are dealing with. Try: Practicing with word games, sudoku, a jigsaw puzzle or other brain teasers helps keep your mind active and processing Adequate, quality REM sleep every night Shut off distractions while working  Keeping your mind concentrating on one thing at a time in order to give it all your focus Good nutrition—antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals impact your brain health and promote anti-aging benefits Keeping Steady Energy Levels How often do we feel tired and ready for a nap by mid-afternoon, or drained on the weekends so much that zoning out in front of the T.V. seems like the only thing we feel like doing? Most likely too much. Grabbing your third coffee of the day or downing a sugar-filled energy drink may seem like the solution, but it will cause a crash and leave you in an even worse position than you were before. Plus, the amount of energy you have in your reserves also affects your ability to perform your best, recall information, and deal with life’s stressors. It’s all connected! If dragging yourself to a vending machine or taking constant naps sounds like you, a lifestyle adjustment might be in order. Try these tips: Taking melatonin at night to wind your body down and prepare you for a full night’s rest Turning off electronics at night so you can get quality sleep Exercise in the morning to amp your energy levels Eating a high-fiber, high-protein breakfast with minimal sugar will keep you at even levels of energy Stretching and moving your body every hour for 5-10 minutes Dialing back on caffeine If you’re finding all three of these areas of your health being impacted by stress, poor sleep, and nutrition habits, don’t get overwhelmed! Starting with little changes to your lifestyle that feel achievable will help you stay committed to improving your physical and mental wellness. Our health is all connected and impacted by other parts of our body; when one part is off, your system can’t operate in synergy, so it’s best to think about health holistically. A quick and effortless way to support your performance, motivation, and wellness is to consider a supplement in addition to a healthy, well-rounded diet. Consider adding the EZ Melts’ Energy, Memory, and Mood Enhancer supplement to your daily routine. It aids in all of this without harmful chemicals or negative side effects. Our vitamins are fast melting and have a delicious customer-approved flavor. Unlike many major vitamin brands, our tablets are vegan and do not include harmful toxic ingredients, artificial flavors, or GMOs. Try us out and see the difference!  ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

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

Read time: 4 minutes Vitamin B6, as we briefly discussed here, has so many important roles in the health and wellbeing of our bodies. It’s essential to get vitamin B6 through our food sources, because our bodies don’t produce it on our own. Scientists studying evolution believe that over time, mammals (that’s us) evolved to ingest most vitamins and minerals from food sources instead of naturally producing said nutrients within ourselves. For better or worse, we have to ingest B6. Many groups of people can be susceptible to vitamin deficiencies, such as vegetarians and vegans, because a lot of vitamins and minerals are found in meat and animal products. To make it easier to get your B6, and because we are really into the number right now, here are six superfoods to always keep stocked in your home that you can incorporate into a lot of recipes. 1) Eggs We are starting it off with a household staple for vegetarians. Eggs are a fantastic source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamins. For example, just two eggs contain 10% of your daily recommended value of B6. Eggs are relatively inexpensive and simple to cook. For breakfast, it’s important to get protein and fiber to keep your metabolism revved, your brain focused, and your stomach full for longer. So, try a quick veggie omelet in the morning before work, like this one (vegetables are a great source of fiber). Add all the spices you’d like! If you’re looking for an even speedier breakfast, cut up the vegetables the night before, so you can simply crack your eggs and go! 2) Avocado We hope you’re on the avocado bandwagon, because they are chock full to the brim with fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals you need to support your health. Just one recommended serving brings you 13% of your daily B6. They are also low in sugar and carbs, so if you are carb conscious, avocados are a great option. Keep them on your counter, and when they are soft, spread them on toast with feta and pumpkin seeds, add a dash of pepper and salt, and you’ve got a filling, wholesome breakfast. Looking for a snack before (or during) your evening meal? Try making your own fresh guacamole, served with pita or tortilla chips (we promise homemade is betterhttps://www.gimmesomeoven.com/perfect-guacamole/). It’s a fresh, vibrant addition to any dinner party! 3) Bananas Bananas are convenient, transportable when you’re on the go, and a delicious treat in the morning, noon, or night. One medium banana can provide you with up to ⅓ of your daily recommended value of B6. If you have a sweet tooth, add it into any fruit smoothie recipe you like, or, try slicing and freezing the banana on a cookie tray with a small drizzle of dark chocolate for a lighter version of dessert after dinner. 4) Sweet Potatoes Swap in sweet potatoes in your usual potato dishes, and you’ve got a sweet and savory side dish packed with B6 (about 20-29% of your daily value in one medium sized ‘tate, to be exact). Are you craving something sinfully sweet and crispy? Cut sweet potatoes into snackable strips, throw them in the oven for 20-25 minutes with some salt, pepper, and olive oil, or use an air fryer for crispiness and flavor without compromise. 5) Breakfast Cereals (Fortified with B6) Need a breakfast on the go? Pick up a box of cereal that you enjoy, and check the nutritional facts to see if it is fortified with B6. Many great grain products are. Just make sure to choose one that has minimal added sugar and preservatives—check out the health food aisle in your local grocery store for ideas. Still craving a little sweetness in the morning? Add some blueberries or a sliced banana to your cereal bowl! Bonus vitamins and a healthy way to substitute for sugar. 6) Chickpeas These little guys are packed with a ton of vitamins and minerals. Just one serving contains about 25-27% of your daily value of B6! Stocking up can be relatively affordable and easy. Keep a few cans in your pantry for nights where you want an easy, zesty side dish, like this Mediterrianian-inspired chickpea salad. Looking for a quick, delicious snack? Make or buy hummus, and cut up some veggies or add some crackers on the side. It’s a great way to keep you fueled midday. Just one serving contains 65% of your daily value of B6. EZ Melts Difference Always make sure your nutrition supports your best health, but to ensure you are getting the right amounts, we suggest a supplement like EZ Melts to add to your daily routine. 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. Thanks for being a part of our community! Check out our Zero-Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO quick melting vitamin B6 tablets in a customer-approved delicious flavor!  ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

  Read time: 3 minutes Taking your vitamin supplements is one of the easiest and proactive ways we can support our health, but which ones do we need, and what are they all for? It can get confusing to try and remember all the different names and forms of vitamins, but it’s important nonetheless to make sure you get them. One of these vitamins, vitamin A, comes in two main forms: retinoids and carotenoids. You may have heard of the most popular retinoid, known as retinol. However, retinol is just one of nine different retinoids, all derivatives of vitamin A. Retinoids are preformed, meaning they can be used by the body just as they are. Carotenoids, however, are pro-vitamin A, which means once ingested, your body turns it into vitamin A in the digestive system. Both are essential to human health. With so many different variations of this one vitamin, it can be hard to keep track, or know which ones to buy. Let’s talk about the most popular retinoid and vitamin A supplements to determine which one best suits your needs. Then, you can make an informed decision on if you should take vitamin A and retinol.  Topical Retinol: The Fountain of Youth First of all, it’s good to know that retinol is just one of nine siblings in the retinoid family, so the two terms cannot be used interchangeably. Retinol is known worldwide as the most popular anti-aging retinoid, and estheticians as well as beauty gurus everywhere sing its praises. In addition to being the proverbial fountain of youth for skin, retinol is prescribed by doctors for other conditions such as acne and psoriasis. This retinoid often comes over-the-counter topically in small amounts, due to its chemical strength and irritating properties. A little can go a long way with retinol, and it’s an effective topical treatment to help with wrinkles, fine lines, and other forms of visible aging. It’s found in many creams, serums, and cleansers, and is relatively affordable compared to other, more expensive methods of countering signs of aging. If you’re looking for something to slow the hands of time, topical retinol may be worth adding to your daily skin routine! However, vitamin A, both in retinoid and carotenoid form is crucial for many important biological processes beyond the skincare aisle as well. Vitamin A As mentioned, there are two kinds of vitamin A:pre-formed (aka retinoids), found in animal products like dairy, meat, and eggs. The second is pro-vitamin A, which is found as carotenoids in plant-based foods, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and grapefruits, and these need to be converted by your body into vitamin A. Both are essential to human development and health. Vitamin A, in fact, supports a strong immune system, helps with bone growth and health, supports reproductive processes, and is vital for eye health and vision. Remember “eat your carrots”, anyone? There’s good reason for it; carrots are a rich source of a carotenoid called beta carotene. Yes, there are multiple forms of carotenoids too! Vitamin A supplements contain retinoids and carotenoids, and while you can get some vitamin A in food, many people are vitamin deficient today, regardless of location or economic status. Vitamin A supplements are safe in the right amounts (up to 10,000 IUs per day), and a great way to ensure you aren’t deficient. If you are looking to support your body’s functioning, eye, bone, and immune health, a vitamin A supplement is a great place to start. Vitamin A and Retinol - The EZ Melts Difference For your daily dose of complete vitamin A, we suggest a supplement like EZ Melts. 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. Thanks for being a part of our community! Check out our Zero-Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO quick melting vitamin A tablets in a customer-approved delicious flavor!  ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Read time: 3 minutes There are eight essential B vitamins and they can be hard to keep straight. Together, they are called B-complex, and both the combination or individual B vitamins can be taken via supplements—and should be. About 92% of today’s Americans are vitamin deficient, which is bad news because 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, and mental health including depressive episodes. More specifically, when it comes to vitamin Bs, people are deficient especially in vitamins B1, B6, and B12. This is due in part to human evolution, because over time, we have lost a lot of our abilities to synthesize vitamins in the body itself. Therefore, B vitamins are 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. But with so many B vitamins, how do we know which ones to take? When to Take B12 Supplements Vitamin B12 is the most common deficiency out of all the B vitamins, especially for vegetarians and vegans. This is because in our diets, B12 is not found in plant-based food sources. Vitamin B12 is crucial to nerve and blood cell health, 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. Even if you are a meat eater, you can still be deficient, but vegetarians and vegans should especially be mindful of symptoms. If you are on a plant-based diet and believe you are prone to missing out on B12, consult a medical professional and consider adding B12 supplements to your daily regimen. When to Take B-Complex Supplements B-complex supplements cover all eight essential B vitamins, and are safe to take even if you do get some of your vitamin Bs through nutrition. B vitamins support your brain, immune system, metabolism, DNA production, and much more, so it is crucial to ensure you are supplementing your diet if you feel you are not getting enough through food. While it is rare to be deficient in all eight B vitamins, and most foods contain ample amounts of B1, 2, 3, and 5, many Americans today are not consuming a well-rounded diet that includes the right amount of vitamins and minerals. If you worry you are experiencing symptoms of B deficiency (list found here) and not sure which one could be the issue, consider talking to a medical professional and covering your bases with a B-complex vitamin. EZ Melts Difference Always make sure your nutrition supports your best health, but to ensure you are getting the right amounts, we suggest a supplement like EZ Melts to add to your daily routine. 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. Thanks for being a part of our community! Check out our Zero-Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO quick melting B-complex tablets in a customer-approved delicious flavor!  ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Read time: 4 minutes B12 is incredibly important; you need it to live. Just one of its many jobs is replicating DNA, and DNA is responsible for cell creation and renewal. You can see why not having enough B12 in your diet would have long-lasting, damaging effects on the body. Unfortunately, it’s easy to be B12 deficient, especially if you are vegan or vegetarian. This is because B12 is found in animal products, like eggs, dairy, meat, etc. The only plant containing adequate amounts of B12 is some edible mushroom and algae species, such as nori. So, if you are a vegan or even vegetarian eating minimal animal products, it is very likely you are deficient. Groups At Risk There are certain groups who might be more at risk of B12 deficiency, including older adults over 50 (especially vegetarian adults) and anyone with gastrointestinal issues or lower stomach acid levels. People who take certain medicines also have B12 malabsorption issues. Sometimes it is hard to tell if you are low on daily B12 because there are other vitamins which mask the deficiency. If you feel you may be experiencing symptoms of deficiency, consult a doctor and consider supplements. Here are four reasons why you should make B12 a priority in your diet and vitamin regimen! Four Reasons B12 is Important Blood Cell Formation: As mentioned above, B12 is essential for building red blood cells. Without the proper amounts of red blood cells, people develop anemia, a serious condition where red blood cells cannot carry the right amounts of oxygen to your organs, causing fatigue, weakness, and other serious symptoms. Reduces Risk of Birth Defects: It is proven that gestating fetuses need healthy levels of B12 in order to develop properly. Without B12, fetuses can be at risk of premature birth, birth defects, and being miscarried. If you are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant, talk to your doctor about prenatal care and supplements. Supports Bone Health and May Prevent Osteoporosis: Studies have linked osteoporosis in populations, especially populations of women, to low B12 levels. Taking a supplement early on in life and regularly can support healthy bone mass later on in life. B12 May Support Lower Levels of Depressive Symptoms: Adequate amounts of B12 have been linked to supporting an uplifted and more even mood. Studies have shown that people who are vitamin B12 deficient are twice as likely to experience symptoms of depression. Talk to your doctor about supplementing any mental health care with B12 vitamins. The Brand Matters Scientific research proves that taking a supplement is one of the best ways to bridge the gap in your B12 levels and it is incredibly hard to take too much B12. However, the supplement brand matters! In EZ Melts supplements, we source quality B12 in the form of methylcobalamin, because it is the form you find in most foods and vegetables (our supplement is vegan, don’t worry!). Most supplement companies will use cyanocobalamin. It’s thought to be used because cyanocobalamin is cheaper and has a longer shelf life. Unfortunately, it also has to be converted by the body into methylcobalamin, and often, our bodies fail to do so with this type of supplement. Methylcobalamin is recommended over the less effective cyanocobalamin by many studies for its superiority and bioavailability, so we ensure that our supplements deliver you the best possible nutrition possible. Why take a vitamin if it doesn’t work? Your health is too important. Give our Zero-Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO B12 supplement a try and see the difference! Our supplements melt quickly on the tongue, making it EZ to get the nutrition you need!  ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Read time: 4 minutes Ready for something that might shock you? Approximately 10 million people have an iron deficiency, and of those people, 5 million have anemia, which is a condition that affects our red blood cell count and causes many physical side effects. Iron is an essential mineral and has a lot of important roles in your health, including:     Neurological development     Physical growth in young children     Muscle endurance and metabolism     Linked to stronger immune systems     Synthesis of specific hormones So with a mineral that is so essential, why are there so many people with a deficiency? Part of this is due to nutrition gaps, as over 92% of today’s Americans are nutrient deficient, regardless of economic or social status. Many people are on the go all the time and don’t stop to check nutritional information on the foods they eat. Deficiency can lead to health conditions and diseases down the road! While many people also choose to take a supplement to address this and prevent long-term health effects, it’s also important to make nutritious meals a priority. Supplements can bridge your nutrition gap and support a healthy lifestyle, but it is important to also eat well. In light of this, we decided to make a list of the top five iron superfoods you can add to your diet today! Five Iron Superfoods 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 for you. Vegetarians especially are at increased risk of iron deficiency due to not consuming meat, which is why it’s important to include the other alternatives. Here are our top five favorite iron superfoods: Shellfish: Clams, mussels and oysters are the best for providing a healthy dose of iron, and are a summer favorite for many! Shellfish contain a version of iron called “heme iron”  that is easier to digest and absorb than plant sources. Broccoli and Spinach: In addition to hefty doses of iron, leafy greens and green vegetables like broccoli and spinach contain vitamin C which actually helps the body to absorb iron better! Legumes: Legumes include chickpeas, beans, soybeans, lentils, and more! In fact, legumes are a fantastic source of iron for vegans and vegetarians, and is a staple for those diets. For example, one cup of lentils contains over one-third of the recommended daily amount of iron. Quinoa: Swap out white rice in your next meal for healthy quinoa! It’s such a versatile grain, and in addition to many vitamins and minerals, one serving has about 16% of the recommended daily iron, and is gluten free—a great choice for those who are gluten intolerant. Dark Chocolate: Okay, so this has to be our favorite iron superfood on the list. Dark chocolate is here for good reason: 1 oz contains 19% of the daily recommended amount of iron, as well as a powerful blend of magnesium, prebiotic fiber, and antioxidants. Go on, indulge! The EZ Melts Difference It’s important to have a daily routine of feeding your body the nutrients it needs, but pairing this with supplements is a great way to positively impact your health. And of course, if you are having health issues related to poor nutrition, consult with a doctor first. Check out our Zero Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO quick-melting iron tablets in a customer-approved delicious flavor! 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. Thanks for being a part of our community!  ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Read time: 4 minutes According to research on human evolution, over thousands of years, our bodies lost the ability to create many nutrients on its own due to getting said vitamins and minerals through food sources. Therefore, our bodies need to get many essential nutrients by eating and metabolizing. Seems simple right? Unfortunately, 92% of today’s Americans are nutrient deficient, meaning we are not getting the right amounts of essential vitamins and minerals through our diets. This can create health issues over the long term that could easily have been avoided. The easiest, quickest way to solve this issue of vitamin deficit is by taking a quality multivitamin without any harmful additives or chemicals for optimal absorption. There are plenty of benefits to taking a multivitamin, because on average they contain over thirty vitamins and minerals your body needs. However, it’s not as simple as just adding a vitamin to your day and forgetting about it!   There are factors to consider before starting a vitamin regimen, such as when to take supplements and groups of people who are especially at risk for nutrition deficiency. Best Time of Day to Take a Multivitamin The time of day you take your vitamin supplements can affect your body’s ability to absorb the nutrients. Many nutritionists agree that taking a supplement in the morning hours is best for absorption. It’s believed that if you take your supplement at night before bedtime, your body won’t be able to digest as efficiently because digestion slows down considerably during evening/night hours and during sleep. Make it a habit to keep your supplements next to your bed, or in your bathroom. That way, as you go about your morning routine, you won’t forget to take it. Bonus? EZ Melts vitamins don’t require swallowing or chewing pills, so it’s even easier to take them anywhere! There are also certain populations who should especially make it a priority to find a good multivitamin to support their health. These populations include anyone who is vegan, over 50, postmenopausal women, those who are pregnant, as well as small children. Make sure to consult a doctor about what amount and type of supplement is right for you and your family before starting any new regimen. How to Choose a Multivitamin 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! The EZ Melts Difference It’s important to have a daily routine of feeding your body the nutrients it needs. And of course, if you are having health issues related to poor nutrition, consult with a doctor and pair a multivitamin with a healthier, well-rounded diet for the best possible results. A multivitamin alone won’t prevent some health conditions resulting from poor diet, however, supplements are the easiest and quickest way of ensuring you support a healthy lifestyle. Check out our Zero Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO quick-melting multivitamin tablets in a customer-approved delicious flavor! 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. Thanks for being a part of our community!  ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Read time: 5 minutes Winter is in full swing, and there’s no better time to be proactive with your nutrition to protect your health. Vitamin C is one of the powerhouses of all the essential nutrients. In addition to a strong immune system, vitamin C has numerous other benefits, which you can read about here.  Here are three recipes bursting at the seams with vitamin C. They will be sure to please even the pickiest of eaters!   Kale and Lemon Chicken Soup Nothing is better in cooler weather than a hearty soup, and this one will add some variety to your OG chicken soup recipe. We love the tang of the lemon and kale is packed with vitamin C. Use leftover bones and meat from a chicken dinner to create your own stock, or purchase chicken stock right off the shelf. Either way, it’s going to be a hit. Ingredients: 1 whole chicken, or several thighs and legs  1 onion 3 carrots 3 bay leaves  3 celery stalks 1 fennel bulb 6 garlic cloves Several thyme, sage, and rosemary sprigs 3 tbsp olive oil 2 lemons 1 tsp peppercorn salt ½ cup of wild rice or grain of your choice For broth:  Place chicken, peppercorns, onion, carrot, bay leaves, herbs, 3 garlic cloves, 2 celery stalks and 1 tbsp of salt in a large stock pot and cover with 7-8 cups of water. Cut woody stalks from fennel and add to the pot along with fronds. Save the fennel bulb. Place pot over high heat and bring to the boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 1 hour or until chicken is cooked through. If the chicken floats, top with a plate to keep it submerged. Keep chicken on a plate for later.  Strain the broth through a sieve or a cheesecloth, back in the large stock pot. Discard the ingredients caught by strainer/cheesecloth. Making the soup: Cook the rice according to directions. Add rice to broth. While rice is cooking, heat oil in a separate pan, and mince remaining garlic cloves, chop the celery, carrots, onion, and fennel bulb. Cook in the oil until tender, about 5 minutes. Transfer to the broth in a stock pot. Chop kale and remove large stems if any. Saute the kale for about 2 minutes (look to see that it is bright green). Transfer to broth. It will continue to cook there.  Chop chicken and add to stock pot. Squeeze in the juice of 1-2 lemons, as desired. Allow to simmer for 20-25 minutes, lid on.  Serve hot with a slice of bread if desired. Enjoy! Blackened Salmon with Mango & Papaya Salsa Still craving flavors that bring you back to summer? Mango and papaya bring a sweet twist and contrast perfectly with the blackened, smoky flavor imbued in this salmon dish. Best part is that papaya and mango are bursting with vitamin C! No palm trees and sunshine needed for this tropical experience.  Ingredients: 2 large mangoes diced 1 papaya diced 1 red bell pepper diced 1/2 red onion diced handful of cilantro finely chopped 1 lime Ingredients for salmon: 1 tablespoon dried oregano 1 tablespoon sweet or smoked paprika 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 lb of freshwater or farmed salmon fillet 2 tablespoons vegetable oil For salsa: Combine mangoes, bell peppers, onions, and cilantro. Add lime juice and salt. Stir, add salt to taste. Set aside. For salmon: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees (F). Put oregano, smoked paprika, garlic and olive oil in a bowl and season. Rub the marinade into the flesh of fish. Place the vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over high heat. Warm for 1-2 minutes until the oil is smoking, then add the fish, marinated-side down, and cook for 5-6 minutes until the flesh has blackened. Transfer to the oven, then bake for 10 minutes until just a little rare in the center. Transfer to plate, top with salsa, serve warm. Optional: good sides are arugula salad dressed lightly or quinoa served warm.   Pistachio & Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries Looking for something indulgent and sweet that still packs your vitamin C? These strawberry treats are a lighter option to your typical winter dessert. Perfect for a night in or a gift for a loved one with a sweet tooth. Bonus! Pistachios and strawberries both contain vitamin C. Super simple, super cute, and super tasty! Ingredients: 1 pint of large or medium strawberries 2 cups of milk or dark chocolate, melted 1/2 chopped unsalted/salted pistachios Wooden skewers Pink decorating sugar, optional Directions for dipping:  Clean strawberries, chop off ends and discard. Place strawberries on skewers (one per skewer). Melt chocolate over low heat, stirring constantly and taking care not to burn (if it’s clumping, it’s burning). Dip each strawberry halfway into chocolate, coating each in a light layer of chocolate. Place each on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment.  Crush pistachios in a bag with a rolling pin. They should be fine pieces, breadcrumb size. Sprinkle pistachios lightly on the top side of each strawberry before chocolate sets. Sprinkle lightly with pink decorating sugar if a more indulgent treat is desired.  Place the tray in the fridge until dried and cool. Serve on a plate. Share and enjoy!   The EZ Melts Difference These recipes are sure to please and give you a C-boost, but for your daily vitamin C, we suggest a supplement like EZ Melts. 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. Check out our Zero Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO quick melting vitamin C tablets in a customer-approved delicious flavor! 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. Thanks for being a part of our community!  ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Read time: 3 minutes This time of year is known as the Winter Blues for a reason. 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. There are many other side effects of low vitamin D3, which we discuss below. But despite knowing this, according to research, about 42% of Americans today are vitamin D deficient. Causes of Deficiency Vitamin D3 deficiency can be due to poor diet, minimal sunlight exposure from long hours at work, and even factors such as:         Celiac’s disease         chronic kidney/liver disease         taking some long-term heartburn medications         being elderly         having darker skin We have great news for you—supplements can make up for the lack of vitamin D3. 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 illness, chronic skin conditions and serious diseases like osteoporosis later on in life. In addition, vitamin D deficiency is linked to:         muscle weakness         mood swings         fatigue         bone and back pain         becoming ill often         hair loss         bone loss         depression  Next Steps 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. The EZ Melts Difference 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! Many vitamin D supplements are solid and there are 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! ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Read time: 3 minutes We know that these are incredibly stressful times. Being unsure of the world around us every day with the pandemic can be hard on us, mentally and physically. Even with the vaccine right around the corner, our lives are different now. We may worry more about our loved ones, our work, and our lack of physical interaction. Stress like this 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. But this article is not meant to be doom and gloom! Fortunately, we can be proactive about our health, and not just react when stressors have us feeling under the weather.   Without a Trace There are many vitamins and minerals that, when taken alone or together, are proven to support whole body health when you get the right amounts. While we love all our EZ Melts supplements, there’s one that certainly deserves the spotlight: a trace mineral known as zinc. 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. Zinc is essential in aiding over 300 enzymes that exist to help with digestion, metabolism, nerve function and the immune system, to name a few. Zinc also helps the body to create new protein and DNA—essential for cell health. Your body is held together quite literally by constantly churning replicas of your DNA—you are a cloning machine, without even realizing it! That’s why it’s super important for pregnant women as well as for developing children, as it supports healthy and essential growth.   Signs of Deficiency and How to Fix It Zinc isn’t stored in the body, so we have to get it in food and supplements. 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 this case, it may be hard to get what you need in food sources. If you are experiencing symptoms of zinc deficiency, consider talking to your doctor about taking a supplement to bridge the gap. Symptoms of zinc deficiency can include:       Lower immunity       Loss of appetite       Slower wound healing       Hair loss       Swollen tongue       Erectile dysfunction       Lower sensations of smell and taste 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

  When you hear “wellness”, do you think of four different aspects of your health? Physical health is the first thing that typically comes to mind, and brings images of nutrition, exercise, and sleep with it. However, there are so many more aspects of your health to juggle for optimal quality of life. Many of these four areas of health intertwine and affect one another, so it’s important to take care of them all. For example, according to the Mental Health Foundation, physical and mental health are dependent on one another, and both are equally important to your overall wellness. Read on to learn more about the four main different types of wellness. They can be broken down further into subtypes, but learning about these is a great start to understanding holistic wellness.   The 4 Different Types of Wellness Emotional/Mental Wellness This is the health state of your emotions, mind, and outlook on life. Generally speaking, if one is able to express their feelings, understand that complex emotions exist, and feel safe and respected by others to be themselves, have self-esteem and a sense of identity and purpose, their emotional wellness might be described as good! Of course, we are not discounting mental illness as a huge factor in emotional health, nor will these suggestions cure any type of disease or disorder. But generally, in order to maximize your daily emotional wellness, there are things you can try: Keep a journal Cultivate a positive mindset and remember things you are grateful for Practice stress management skills Cultivate self-esteem and self-acceptance Talk to loved ones Take time every week for yourself and the things you love to do   Social Wellness Almost everyone wants to feel a sense of belonging and interact with others to feel fulfilled in the area of social wellness--yes, even introverts! Social wellness has a lot to do with emotional wellness above. There are things you can do, even during the pandemic, to ensure you still get ample social time:  Reflect on current relationships--maintaining appropriate boundaries, respect for each other, etc. Call a loved one or set up a virtual chat to meet with friends weekly or monthly Spend time cuddling or playing with a pet Share your skills with others or volunteer in your community Go on a walk in a public space where there are other people (who are taking proper safety precautions) Join a club that interests you to find like-minded people   Spiritual Wellness This area of wellness doesn’t mean specific beliefs. It applies to everyone, from all different backgrounds and walks of life. Spirituality can be your connection to Earth and your individual sense of purpose in life. Reflect using some suggestions below: Meditate, spend time practicing mindfulness and sitting in the present moment Keep a journal of your beliefs and ideas about life Live by your principles and standards Look for opportunities for growth and challenge yourself as a person Learn about a new topic or idea, reflect on what it means to you Gather with others to meditate on beliefs and self-awareness   Physical Wellness Last, we come to the area most associate with their health--the physical aspect of wellness. This includes sleep, nutrition, exercise, the immune system, reproductive health, and much more! Here are some great practices to try implementing in your daily life: Join a fitness program you’ve always wanted to try (even from home online!) Dance to your favorite music Take your pet for 30 min walks every day Drink at least 8 cups of water a day, more if physically active Make a habit of moving your body every day for at least 45 minutes Eat a well-balanced diet, pay attention to your dietary needs and sensitivities Get adequate rest Take vitamins to support your nutrition and wellness Schedule routine check-ups with your dentist and medical provider Curious about one of the easiest ways to support your health? Consult with your medical provider and try adding all-natural multivitamin supplements to your daily regimen to support your health.   The EZ Melts Difference Quality matters when choosing a vitamin brand. 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. Check out our multivitamin tablets in a customer-approved delicious flavor!  Thank you for being a part of our community! ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Many people, especially women, focus on outward appearances. We spend so much money and time in an effort to look good, we often forget to make sure we feel good too. At EZ Melts, we believe beauty radiates from the inside, and when you take care of your health, it shows! Making sure you get all essential vitamins and minerals is a huge step in the right direction, but unfortunately, most of us don’t. Did you know that 92% of Americans today are nutrient-deficient? There’s lots of room for improvement here! Biologically speaking, when talking about essential nutrients, females and males should focus on different daily amounts and different supplements regardless of gender identity. Here are some of the key vitamins and minerals women should pay extra attention to--and scroll down for a special offer on all of them!   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, mood swings, and chronic skin conditions. Taking a D3 supplement will promote healthy cell growth and turnover, proper immune function, bone health, and a strong musculoskeletal system. Calcium Female bodies are more prone to developing osteoporosis and other bone diseases. Work to combat this now with calcium!  Medical professionals recommend slightly different amounts according to age groups, but the fact remains the same: this mineral is essential to your health and can only be found externally in our food sources.  Calcium is widely known as being associated with bone growth and strength, as well as cardiovascular health! And vitamin D3, mentioned above, aids in cellular transport of calcium, so pair it with a D3 supplement!   Biotin Biotin is connected with supporting luscious hair, strong nails, and beautiful, glowing skin. But did you know that on top of this, biotin does so much more? It can support lower cholesterol levels, promotes fetal development, weight control, and thyroid health, among other benefits.   Multivitamin Through evolution, our bodies lost the ability to create many nutrients on their own due to getting them through our food sources. Therefore, our bodies need to get many essential nutrients by eating and metabolizing them. Supplements are a great, quick, and cost-effective way to ensure you are getting maximum health benefits, and pairing a multivitamin with specific supplements only works to ensure you get everything you need!   The Full Package The ability to convert vitamins and minerals into digestible nutrition in the body is called bioavailability, and it is proven that combining specific vitamins and minerals together can enhance the absorption--supporting better health! Especially if you identify as vegan, pregnant, or more senior in age, taking supplements can support optimal health and wellness (with a doctor’s recommendation). EZ Melts’ Biotin, Calcium, D3, and Multivitamin are key for women’s optimal health. They can all be bought separately on our website--but make it easier AND less costly when you buy the EZ Melts Essential Women’s Health Bundle at a discount! The best part: EZ Melts supplements are non-GMO, vegan, and fast-melting with customer-approved, 100% natural flavors. EZ Melts are for everyone, but our Essential Women’s Health Bundle is an effective, safe support for targeting women’s health concerns. Get your bundle today, or give it to a woman you love! There’s nothing better than the gift of health this holiday season. Thank you for being a part of our community!  ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

“It seems everyone is looking at a screen these days” is a common phrase we hear now. Whether it be young adults reading emails and blasting music on public transportation, children playing with VR headsets on a day off, or toddlers being distracted by a show on a parent’s cell phone so they can finish errands, the increase in screen time is undeniable. Add the fact that colder months are approaching and families will be stuck indoors for longer periods of time for a while. Cultural and social norms over the past two decades have shifted dramatically in step with technological advancements. All of us enjoy the benefits of entertainment and human connection; it isn’t something to be ashamed about. But how much is too much for young minds? When tech is used excessively, especially by young children, it comes with some serious health costs-- both physical and psychological. So how can we moderate time spent in front of screens that still allows for some enjoyment?   Tech-Free Bedrooms Model this for your children in your own room: tech-free areas in your home, especially bedrooms. It is hard to monitor how much time children spend gaming or watching Netflix if it’s behind closed doors.   Family Hobbies Always wanted to learn how to crochet, paint on canvas, or build something with your hands? Start a group hobby with your children, so that everyone enjoys being critical and creative thinkers. Bonus? Quality family memories, which is also important for child development! Try setting this time to when your family is used to zoning out in front of the TV.   Time Limits and Reward Systems Don’t cold-turkey and immediately shift to the opposite extreme by taking all screen time away for good. This probably won’t go well, especially with children or teens who are differently-abled in their behavior. Try setting a time when they are allowed to watch or surf whatever they want (within reason). For example every weekday, 2 hours between 6pm-8pm, provided they went outside for a half hour after school and completed homework or chores. This will motivate them to complete the tasks at hand while teaching them time management and delayed gratification.   Outdoor Play Try to find at least one thing your family enjoys doing outside to minimize temptation. Try having a weekly bike ride scheduled, or have them take responsibility for walking pets around the neighborhood. Maybe even hiking to an isolated picnic spot or trail they enjoy. Physical movement is important at any age for health and longevity! It also helps improve focus, memory, and mood, which are all things that screens deplete over time. If you find yourself or other family members groggy, lethargic, and glued to Netflix, you might also want to try a supplement to support healthy energy levels and mood with approval from a medical provider.   The EZ Melts Difference All our vitamins are fast melting, EZ to take, and have delicious customer-approved flavors. If you are looking for a great way to support overall health and energy, try our multivitamin supplement! The EZ Melts promise: our vegan, non-GMO supplements have zero sugar or chemical additives. Thank you for being a part of our community! Thanks for being a part of our community! ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Gut health is a reference to the amount and functionality of good bacteria in your digestive tract. You may associate bacteria with words like “dirty” and “gross”, but hold up! Bacteria might seem like outside invaders, but in fact, you actually have more bacterial cells than human cells in your body at any given time. This “good” bacteria is essential to your digestive system, metabolism, organ health, and your energy levels. Good bacteria allows the gut to “talk” to your hormones, brain, and nervous system. Gut health also plays a role in supporting your immune system and lowering our likelihood of disease. In fact, without a healthy gut with millions of good bacteria functioning properly, it would be hard to survive! Here are some signs and symptoms of an unbalanced gut, and a few ways to kick it into high gear!   3 Signs of Poor Gut Health There are many cautionary signs of your gut being imbalanced, but here are three big ones to watch for. Sugary Diets If you eat a lot of processed foods high in sugar, or add a lot of sugar to everything, it could decrease the good bacteria in your digestive system, and create nasty symptoms especially for those with IBS. In addition, sugar crashes and cravings can make it even worse! Try to aim for less than 25g a day for females, and 36g for males, according to the American Heart Association.   Restless Sleep and Constant Grogginess Poor gut health is linked to feeling constantly fatigued! In addition, many scientists believe that your gut microbiome impacts your serotonin levels and sleep quality. This is because most of the serotonin is made in the gut, and serotonin directly affects the quality of your sleep.   Stomach and Intestinal Issues Is your stomach constantly upset or you feel nauseous frequently? Do you have a lot of issues with your digestion? This could be connected to your gut bacteria. When your gut is healthy, it is able to digest food more quickly and eliminate waste effectively. Dysfunctional gut bacteria, however, may lead to inflammation and indigestion, which results in feeling sick, having constipation or diarrhea, and other unpleasant symptoms.   3 Habits for Good Gut Health Fortunately, there are things you can try at home in combination with consulting your doctor if you are experiencing these or other symptoms. Only Take Antibiotics When You Need Them  It used to be common practice to take antibiotics at the first sign of infection, but more often now, you will hear medical providers tell you only to take if absolutely necessary. Definitely listen to your doctor, but also make sure you really need to. Don’t self-diagnose! Taking antibiotics can be harmful because they not only kill the bad bacteria, but wipe out a lot of the good bacteria in your gut as well.   Practice Good Sleep Hygiene You have heard us say this before, but the practice of getting quality sleep is linked to your gut health! This is because of the strong gut-brain connection--they communicate with each other all the time. So, if your brain is not getting adequate rest, it can affect your digestive system’s function! If you find it hard to sleep at night, try EZ Melts all-natural Essential Sleep Bundle, with melatonin and l-theanine. Take them both before bedtime to ensure your body knows it is time to hit the hay.   Eat High-Fiber Foods and Drink Water This might sound simple--and that’s because it is! Staying hydrated is essential to gut health as it supports the intestinal lining, where your bacteria lives and breaks down your food! Also, eating a diet rich in fiber is vital for speedy digestion and getting the maximum nutritional benefits from your food.    Go With Your Gut Listening to your gut and reading your body’s physical cues is important in ensuring that your gut microbiome is functioning properly. You’ll find that your quality of life takes a huge hit without a happy gut. It communicates with your entire body, meaning it needs all the support it can get for its good bacteria. Go with your gut--make sure you are taking care of it! EZ Melts Difference--Zero Sugar Natural supplements like EZ Melts vitamins are a great way to make all essential vitamins and minerals bioavailable to your metabolism. Try our all-natural, zero sugar supplements! 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 sugar, zero chemical additives, are vegan, and non-GMO. Still be sure to talk to your doctor about if EZ Melts supplements are right for your needs. Thanks for being a part of our community!  ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

The pandemic is still in full swing yet the holidays and work aren’t slowing down. Of course, the safest way to minimize risk for yourself and others around you is to stay home. However, if you do find yourself traveling or planning a holiday dinner, we have some tips for you to help keep you and the people around you safer from the virus. Even if you feel that you and the people around you have been safe, it only takes a second of contact with someone or a surface an infected person has touched recently to transmit the disease. On top of that, you can test false negative for days after being exposed to COVID and still be contagious without symptoms, so the safer you can be, and the less travel you can plan, the better--for everyone. Let’s get life back to normal by staying aware and staying safe!   By Car Minimize all bathroom and gas breaks--plan ahead! If you can get there on one tank, or without stopping to use a public restroom, it will limit your exposure to others and surfaces carrying the virus. Bring hand sanitizer with you everywhere.   By Train or Bus  Avoid touching any and all surfaces, even with gloves on. Wear a mask covering your nose and mouth, and gloves--if you have disposable gloves, those work too. Throw them out immediately after getting off and change them. Try not to use the bathroom on the train, and stay in your seat. If it is a commuter or business train, buy out the seat next to you, if possible. It might be more costly, but it’s safer for you and the people you love.   By Plane  If taking a flight, there is a two-fold situation to be aware of: the airport itself, with people coming in and flying out internationally and nationally, as well as the plane. If possible, ask your company to buy out the seats in your row, or check the website to see if there is a distancing policy in place. Wear your mask and gloves at all times--it’s uncomfortable, but safety is more important. Don’t take any refreshments or food that might cause a need for a bathroom break--the small space in a plane bathroom is the perfect breeding ground for the virus.    Holiday Gatherings States are cracking down effective immediately on most public and private gatherings. Some states are even implementing fines for obvious large gatherings and social events. Check out your state’s requirements here. If guests are coming into your home have them test with same-day results if possible. Don’t physically come into contact with them while they are in your home.    Preventative Measures  -Stay at home, have all groceries and necessities delivered. -Before people enter your home, ask if they have taken a test recently--many pharmacies and testing locations offer same-day results. Even if people can carry the virus and test false negative, it’s better to test than nothing at all. -Have hand sanitizer by every entrance with at least 60% alcohol as the main ingredient. -Require people to remove their shoes, coats, and wash their hands thoroughly with warm water and ample amounts of soap. -Consider having Zoom virtual gatherings for holiday festivities, and find activities that are suitable to do online with each other, instead of having people in your home.   Final Note  We know this is a somber and even scary time for many, however, if we all focus on minimizing risks as often as we can, and stay conscious of who and what we are coming into contact with, we can look forward to brighter holiday celebrations in the future! Be well, Your friends at EZ Melts ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Do you ever have that moment? You know, the one when your brain says, “nope! No more”? Mental strain and stress can sneak up on us out of nowhere and really do a number on our health. Often, a seemingly inconsequential event can trigger an amount of stress that doesn’t feel appropriate for the situation. But usually, that one small event was just the straw that broke the camel’s, rather your, back. Often, we ignore the warning signals of pent-up tension, or don’t even know how to spot it until it’s too late. Right now, with working at home, less access to physical movement activities, and less social interaction, mental strain can rise quicker than ever before. Luckily if you are able to catch the warning signs of stress when they start, you can practice self-care methods to process and keep yourself from becoming overwhelmed. Here are some red flags to look out for as you go through your day!   Dizziness or Foggy Mind Woah, why is the room spinning all of a sudden? Our physical health is impacted by the levels of stress we experience because of the interconnectedness of different systems in our body. When one is out of whack, other parts can also be negatively affected! While being groggy, low energy and out of focus can be a sign of specific vitamin deficiencies, it can also be that you are not processing mental strain.   Crying Spells If you are finding yourself crying more than usual and feeling overreactive to random events, check in with yourself. Often our bodies try to release stress in any way that they can, including crying.   Tense, Achy Muscles When someone is stressed out, they tend to hunch their shoulders up to their neck, clench their jaw, or just keep all their muscles contracted tight. This can really cause some “ow” moments, especially when you come down from being tense!   Severe Fatigue You have that 2pm naptime grogginess...but all the time. Ugh. If you are getting enough sleep and you still feel exhausted, this can be the mental-physical connection telling you to slow down and take care of your health!   Procrastination Listen, sometimes we all just want to step away and do anything BUT what we have to do. However, if you find yourself dreading and avoiding your to-do list to the point of it affecting your work and personal life negatively, you may want to check your stress levels. Being overwhelmed is the body’s way of digging its heels into the sand and yelling “enough already!”   Illness This here is a big one right now. If you find yourself often susceptible to colds and infections, it might be stress impacting your immune system. As we mentioned before, your mind-body connection is strong and interconnected.   Eating More or Less Than Usual Some people will overeat while others will skip meals during stressful times. This is normal to experience, but not healthy. While it’s no one’s business but your own and totally fine to indulge in your favorite treats, if you feel your eating patterns are abnormal compared to usual, check in with yourself. Your body may be trying to tell you it's pent-up with stress.   The EZ Melts Difference  The takeaway here is being in tune with yourself and practicing self-care is helpful for your mental and physical well being. Want to maximize your daily stress management? Taking supplements like L-Theanine can promote relief from strain. All our vitamins, including L-Theanine, are fast melting, EZ to take, and have delicious customer-approved flavors. The EZ Melts promise: our vegan, non-GMO supplements have zero sugar or chemical additives. Thanks for being a part of our community! ___ Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens

Ring ring, your body speaking: we need some nutrients up in here, did you see that person sneeze near you?! With cold season here and COVID-19 more present in our communities, you can bet we are looking for any way to help our immune systems stay strong. Why take all of these minerals and vitamins if they all help the immune system? Isn’t that excessive? When you are in working order and feeding your body what it needs, it utilizes proper amounts of all nutrients in a form of synergy. No system in your body works alone, and no vitamin or mineral works alone either! Blah blah, health lecture, blah blah, but here is a recap of what these vitamins and minerals do that will change your energy levels, immune system response, digestion, and general outlook on life!   Vitamin C 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! It’s a POWERFUL antioxidant that boosts your immune system response and fights free radicals which harm and age your skin (vitamin C is responsible for boosting your body’s natural collagen production, which = healthier, younger looking skin)!   Vitamin D Main sources of vitamin D = sunlight and proper nutrition. But according to research, about 42% of Americans today are vitamin D deficient[1]! 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!  Tying it back to the immune system, low levels of vitamin D are linked to out-of-whack autoimmune responses and lower immunity.   Zinc 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.  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 food and supplements.   All Together 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   Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21310306/