Every time I am in a jam and need something to eat, I always reach for an Elevate Me bar. I stash them everywhere and I always make sure I have one in my car. The other day I caught myself thinking about the ingredients that form these delicious bars of goodness. Not only does each bar consist of no more than 8 wholesome ingredients, each ingredient has multiple health benefits. I spent a little time researching on the internet exactly what those health benefits were.
I am going to do this blog in two parts. I introduce to you, part 1. The second is to be continued…
Let’s start this party off with Dates. Not only are they loaded with fiber (helps us stay regular), they are an excellent source of potassium.
Cranberries are one of my favorite dried fruits to eat in salads and are now my favorite turkey topper. They have long been valued for their ability to help prevent and treat urinary tract infections. Now, recent studies suggest that cranberries may also promote gastrointestinal and oral health and prevent the formation of kidney stones. The party doesn’t stop there, they also lower LDL (bad) and raise HDL (good) cholesterol, aid in the recovery from stroke, and even help prevent cancer.
Acai berry has existed for a very long time but this powerful berry has only been main stream for a short while. Acai has a remarkable concentration of antioxidants that help combat premature aging. It also consists of monounsaturated (healthy) fats, dietary fiber and phytosterols to help promote cardiovascular and digestive health.
Almonds are definitely on my list of daily eats. They are a great source of vitamin E and have good amounts of magnesium, potassium, zinc, iron, and fiber. This tear shaped nut is also a great source of healthy monounsaturated fat and they contain more calcium than any other nut which makes them great for vegetarians who do not eat any dairy products.
A few months back I was looking to increase my protein consumption by adding protein powder to my shakes. With so many different varieties on the market, it was hard to know which one to purchase. I consulted my naturopath and she suggested whey protein. Whey Protein is a main ingredient in all the Elevate Me Protein Bars as it helps to increase lean muscle mass. It is useful for weight loss, specifically fat loss. Our brain function relies on appropriate protein and it has also been shown to enhance immune function.
Raisins are a dried fruit I have everyday in my morning bowl of oatmeal. The health benefits of raisins include relief from constipation, acidosis, anemia, fever, and sexual weakness. Raisins also help in eye care, dental care, and bone health. Especially as a female athlete, keeping our bones healthy is a top priority!
You know the saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away”. Apples offer bone protection, helps asthma, lowers cholesterol, assists in the prevention of Alzheimer’s/lung/colon/liver and breast cancer, helps with weight loss, and diabetes management.
WOW!
All these foods are great to eat on their own, but, if you don’t have the time to shop, need healthy food fast that will keep you going for hours, or need to fuel up before or after exercise, reach for an Elevate Me Bar. Will all these wonderful health benefits, you would be silly not to!
Enjoy the day!
Nicola Gildersleeve
