Christmas Giveaway :)

Every health guru needs a great blender. Everything from blending protein smoothies, crushing Kashi GoLean or FiberOne cereal to make your own bread crumbs substitute, chopping veggies, or creaming chickpeas to make your own hummus starts with this one kitchen appliance.

In fact, of all of the appliances in my kitchen, I probably use my blender the most. Recently, I've found one that I really enjoy because of the multiple speeds it includes. Not only does it work as a traditional blender, but it doubles as a food processor. I enjoy it so much that thanks to my friends at CSN Stores, I'm going to kick off 2010 by giving one away! So get ready for your chance to have one arrive in your mailbox!

You can view details of the Hamilton Beach 10-Speed blender by clicking here.

Everyone who makes a purchase from www.turbomichelle.com in the month of December will be automatically entered in the drawing for the free blender. So if you haven't already ordered something, you have a full week to do so!! I will announce the winner on my blog and on my twitter site (http://www.twitter.com/michellemyers24) on January 1, 2010.

It doesn't matter how much your order costs....so whether you purchase a $20 box of protein bars or a $250 home fitness system, you are in the drawing! Head to Michelle's Store to get started!

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and GOD BLESS YOU!

Also, take a moment to browse all of the CSN Store Websites with the links below. They have awesome stuff at fantastic prices!

www.fitnessequipmentandmore.com

www.cookware.com

www.everygameroom.com

www.csnstores.com

Favorite Products: Granulated Stevia Powder

Sugar, Splenda, Sweet & Low, Equal....there are so many sweeteners out there - but which one really is best for you? Here is one of my PERSONAL favorite products - and a special savings for my blog readers thanks to my friends at Jay Robb Enterprises, Inc.

Here is the info straight from Jay Robb's website!

STEVIA IS NOT A SWEETENER BUT...

Our new granulated Stevia powder is spoonable like sugar and dissolves almost instantly, even in cold beverages like fresh made lemonade. 200-300 times sweeter than sugar, Stevia creates an intense effect upon the taste buds without raising blood sugar levels. Research indicates that both diabetics and persons suffering from hypoglycemia may use Stevia.

"I use 1/2 to 1 tsp of the powder in my yogurt mix each day and it turns sour tasting yogurt into a creamy dessert that tastes like pudding. It also sweetens lemonade, limeade, orange juice, grapefruit juice, herb teas, regular iced and hot teas, and is also tasty in baked goods and other recipes including JayCookies and Macaroons."
—Jay Robb

Our Stevia comes in 10 oz jars that should last an individual 30-60 days. Stevia has been used in Japan since 1970 with no reports of any side effects. Stevia has been used around the world with no reports of any problems for over 40 years now. Stevia is heat stable to 392 degrees Fahrenheit so is great for baking.

Nutritional Information:

Serving Size: 1 scoop (scooper inside container)
Servings per container 113
Amount per serving:
Calories 10
Total Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0g
Sodium 0g
Total Carbohydrate 2.5g
Dietary Fiber 0g
Sugar Alcohol 2.5g
Protein 0g

Other Ingredients
Erythritol (a natural fiber from vegetables, fruits and grains)

Our ingredients contain No gluten, No msg, No casein, No artificial colors or flavors

Jay Robb's Stevia is a dietary supplement extracted from leaves of the Stevia plant.

Stevia Powder to Sugar Conversions

Use Stevia for baking and in drinks instead of sugar. Most people prefer the Stevia powder for drinks such as coffee, tea or blender drinks. It works great to even sweeten up a Jay Robb egg protein shake.

1 Jay Robb Stevia scooper = 1/2 tsp of Stevia powder
1/2 tsp of Stevia powder = 2 tsp sugar
3 tsp of Stevia powder = 1/4 cup of sugar
6 tsp of Stevia powder = 1/2 cup of sugar

Order as much as you want between now and July 2, and you can save 15% off - that's a serious deal! Either order online, or phone in your order using the information on the coupon above.

Enjoy, and thanks again JayRobb.com!

Let's recap:

Part 1 - Do 100 push-ups everyday for a week.

Part 2 - Burn 100 more calories than you normally do everyday for a week.

So what's Part 3? Every day for this week, I want you to switch out 100 calories per day for a healthier choice. I am assuming that most of you are trying to limit your caloric intake, and especially when you are exercising, I want to make sure that you are taking in enough calories. But we can always make a better choice.

How?

Order your drink at Starbucks sugar free and have it made with non-fat milk. (Do I even need to say no whip?) Even better? Switch your coffee for hot tea.

Instead of having a turkey sandwich for lunch, replace the bread and serve the meat over greens for a healthy salad.

Instead of crackers with soup, crunch on carrots or celery.

Those are just a few suggestions - there are tons more. Small changes can add up if you just take the time to think about it.

Are you in??

SIDE NOTE - I always like to be the first to tell you about *NEW* products. Check out the latest creation from our friends at Jerky.com called Sasquatch Jerky. You won't find it anywhere else - promise!! Made from 100% of the highest quality Sasquatch meat. It's the perfect high-protein and low-calorie snack! You could use it in your challenge this week. Try it today!

Shakeology

Team Beachbody has done it again. They've come out with a new product destined to revolutionize how the fitness industry works. Introducing the world's healthiest protein shake - Shakeology! With 70 of the world's healthiest ingrediets, you get the ultimate super shake. Not only will it help you lose weight and feel energized, but it's been proven to lower cholesterol and regulate your digestive system! Not to mention, it tastes delicious! (The chocolate flavor is incredible!)

Here are the 4 key ingredients you need to know about:

1) Protein and Essential Amino Acids
* Help build and repair muscles
* Reduce hunger and food cravings
* Help keep blood sugar steady
* Support brain function to help promote alert thinking and reduce anxiety
* Promote healthy skin, hair, and nails

Shakeology includes whey protein isolate, an easily absorbable source of high-quality protein that's ideal for building and maintaining lean muscle mass. It also helps keep your blood sugar steady, reducing hunger and junk food cravings. Essential amino acids, found in protein, help the body repair muscle tissue and heal wounds; support the brain to promote calmness and alertness; and reduce hunger pangs. The whey protein in Shakeology provides a highly bioavailable source of essential amino acids.

2) Prebiotics and Digestive Enzymes
* Aid digestion
* Help boost the immune system
* Increase absorption of nutrients
* Help keep you "regular"

Shakeology contains many ingredients that are beneficial to the digestive system. Prebiotics, natural components of certain plants, help support the "friendly" bacteria in your digestive tract. They may also help with the absorption of minerals such as calcium. Digestive enzymes, from plant sources such as pineapples and papayas, help your body break down food into its individual components, making the nutrients easier to absorb. Cooking can destroy food's natural digestive enzymes, so there's a good chance that you don't get enough of them in your diet.

3) Antioxidants and Phytonutrients
* Get rid of harmful free radicals
* Help decrease inflammation
* Help boost your immune system
* Potentially decrease the risk of degenerative diseases
* May even increase longevity

Many of Shakeology's fruit and vegetable sources have been chosen for their high concentration of healthy natural substances known as phytonutrients, including flavonoids, polyphenols, anthocyanins, and catechins. These substances have antioxidant properties, meaning they help get rid of molecules known as free radicals, which damage cells and may be a key component of the aging process. In laboratory tests, phytonutrients have shown promise in helping prevent a wide variety of degenerative conditions. What's more, studies suggest that the natural mix of phytochemicals you get from whole-plant sources is more effective than taking them individually as nutritional supplements.

4) 23 Vitamins and Minerals
* Get a wide range of essential nutrients
* Get your necessary vitamins every day
* Make up for dietary deficiencies

Most of us don't get the complete range of essential vitamins and minerals in our daily diets. Some important vitamins, such as vitamin C and the B vitamins, are water-soluble, meaning they're flushed out of your body after a short time and need to be replenished regularly. Others, like vitamin E, can be difficult to get enough of in food. Shakeology provides all these nutrients in an easy-to-take, easily absorbable form, so you never have to worry.

With just 140 calories, 1 gram of fat, 9 grams of sugar, and 17 grams of the highest quality protein, you get a well-balanced meal that will keep you full for hours.

Head to Team Beachbody Coach - Michelle Myers to get yours today. Click on NUTRITION, then Core Nutrition, and scroll to the Shakeology Starter Pack. You will get a 30-day supply delivered to your door! Be one of the first to check it out.

Feel free to email me at coach.chelle@gmail.com if you would like more information.

Make it CLICK

They say admitting it is the first step. So, here it goes. I have several addictions, and most of them aren’t too bad. I’m shamelessly addicted to TurboKick, my early morning workouts, date nights with my husband, Tennessee hills, California beaches…and coffee.

I can’t help it. Hot, over ice, hazlenut, French vanilla – you name it, I like it. That’s why I was super excited when I discovered a new product – CLICK: the expresso protein drink. That’s right – you can get your coffee fix AND your protein at once!

CLICK is a really healthy espresso protein drink that contains 15 grams of protein, 23 vitamins and minerals with a double shot of espresso in a 120 calorie 12 oz. serving. Plus, it has a rich and creamy flavor that will make you think you’re talented enough to be a barista at Starbucks.

That’s not all – CLICK is versatile enough to be able to drink hot or cold. (I tried it both ways, and it’s fantastic.)

I decided to use CLICK to make my own version of an Iced White Chocolate Mocha. If you’ve never had a real one of these, don’t start! It’s best that you don’t know what you’re missing.

Here’s how to do it on your own. You will need:

                  4 oz. Skim Milk

                  8 oz. water

                  1 TBSP Sugar Free White Chocolate Syrup

                  2 scoops of CLICK

                  2 TBSP Cool Whip Free

Pour 4 oz. milk and 8 oz. of water in shaker. 
Add 1 TBSP of sugar free white chocolate syrup. Add 2 scoops of CLICK and shake. 
Open shaker, add 2 TBSP of Cool Whip Free and shake again. Finally, add 2-3 cubes of ice, and shake again.

Let’s talk cost. My CLICK version (a great combination coffee/breakfast or coffee/afternoon snack) only has about 200 calories, 1.5 grams of fat, and 11 grams of sugar.  Each container of CLICK contains 14 servings for $25 – costing you under $2 a meal.

The real thing - if you restrict yourself to just ordering a tall - will cost you 370 calories, 15 grams of fat (10 are saturated), and 45 grams of sugar. (Plus – don’t forget that you haven’t eaten yet!) Plus, it’s twice the price - $4 a visit.

Head over to http://www.drinkclick.com today and try your own today. Feel free to make your own combination and post your recipe here!

Special thanks to my friends at CLICK for sending me a PINK protein shaker to try out their products. J

Get Perky with Jerky!

One of the first things you learn when you are aiming for a healthy lifestyle is this: Natural and raw foods are much better for you than anything you can get out of a vending machine. But the packaging of chips and candy bars is so much more convenient, isn’t it?

What if you could have the best of both words? You can! Introducing PINEAPPLE JERKY from our friends at Jerky.com!

Though when I say "jerky," most people immediately drift to thoughts of Hulk Hogan and "SLAM INTO A SLIM JIM!" In the words of Lee Corso, "Not so fast, my friend!" Once dehydrated, these foods that would normally go bad quickly can be stored in an airtight container and stay good for months. (Meaning, CONVENIENT and HEALTHY snack!)

Now - be warned. Most packages of dehydrated fruits that you will pick up at the store contain sugars and preservatives - two things you should avoid as much as possible. But our friends at Jerky.com have made sure that their jerky contains all natural ingredients! Meaning - you still get all of the essential enzymes, amino acids, vitamins and minerals that the fruit has before it is dehydrated.

Here's the 411 on the Pineapple Jerky we sampled:

Jerky.com (based in Witchita Falls, TX) starts with only the purest pineapple - straight from Maui, Hawaii! It is dehydrated at a heat that allows all the nutrients to stay. After it's removed from the dehydrator, the jerky is lightly glazed with honey - also full of antioxidants! Then, it's packaged and ready to be delivered to you! This snack not only satisfies your hunger, but it will keep sweet cravings at bay! It genuinely feels like a treat. 

So, whether you head to Jerky.com or call 1-877-97-JERKY - try some today! In addition to pineapple, there are all kinds of meat-based treats as well!

Click on the title of this post to get a package today!

More reviews to come...

Would you please pass me the BROWNIE?

You remember those things you used to eat before you starting watching your fat and calorie intake? They were full of rich chocolate, sometimes with icing on top... The wonderful smell would fill the whole house. You bit into it. It was warm and moist, and you had to lick the chocolate goo from your fingers after you enjoyed each savory bite. That's right...I'm talking about brownies.

How long has it been since you've had one and DIDN'T feel guilty afterwards? Months? Maybe years?

Well, those days are behind you, thanks to the nutritional geniouses at Apex Fitness.

The Iced Chocolate Brownie Delight is handmade using real Hershey's Chocolate. Each brownie is nutrient rich and contains more protein than two eggs. That's right...a PROTEIN brownie! With no aftertaste...and it's amazing!

They are best used when unable to eat a meal and/or before workouts. They can also be used to increase daily caloric intake when unable to do so by consuming whole food. These brownies make a satisfying, nutritious dessert. Because of their convenience, nutrition, and great taste, they are an optimal meal replacement or supplement...

Here's the dirty details :)

calories 230 carbs 27g
protein 13g fat 8g (0g trans fat)

**For additional goodness, stick in in the microwave for 15 seconds. You will be absolutely amazed!!**

They can be purchased online at http://www.apexfitness.com or at your local 24 Hour Fitness location! Check them out today!

Happy Peanut Butter Lovers Month!

Do you love peanut butter? Well, then join the celebration! November is National Peanut Butter Lovers Month. For me, peanut butter is pretty much the ultimate comfort food. When I have a bad day, a peanut butter sandwich can always make it better. Of course, when I was a kid, I ate the full-fat Peter Pan version. As I got older and developed healthier habits, I switched to natural peanut butter. While it's full of rich vitamins and protein, I can't help but feel guilty about the high fat content. A peanut butter sandwich, even with natural peanut butter, is not something you can indulge in every day. Or can you?

Enter Better ‘n Peanut Butter® - an all natural spread that delivers 85% less fat and 40% less calories when compared to regular butter. In addition, it's loaded with calcium carbonate, lecithin, vitamins E & C, antioxidants. Get this, it's low sodium version only contains 95 mg of sodium! It contains all natural flavors, is colored with annatto and paprika, and is sweetened by tapioca syrup, pure water, and dehydrated cane juice and rice syrup.

You can check their website - http://www.betternpeanutbutter.com/ for a list of retailers. You can even order it online if it's not available at your local health store. Try it - if you're a peanut butter lover, the only thing you'll be missing is extra fat and calories...because you sure won't be lacking in taste or satisfaction.

FRUITIFIED Zone Perfect Nutrition Bars

Okay, so I've always kinda stayed away from ZONE Bars on a regular basis. While the taste is great and 14 grams of protein in just 200 calories is pretty impressive, I've always felt that their saturated fat content is a LITTLE high. Not to mention, if you're trying to use this as a quick breakfast , chocolate, peanut butter, and caramel are not exactly on my taste bud's radar that early in the morning.

But those days are OVER! The minds behind Berry Sear's Zone Diet have come out 4 new flavors of FRUITIFIED Zone Perfect Nutrition Bars - Apple Cinnamon, Blueberry, Orange Cranberry, and Banana Nut. Each bar has real fruit pieces, and they also have additional Vitamin A & C. Each bar is also loaded with potassium, free of unhealthy trans fat, and provides 14 grams of protein. The nutritional values vary a little bit, so check out the numbers below to see which flavors best match your personal eating plan. Some are slightly lower in calories, a few less grams of sugar, lower in saturated fat, etc. There's a bar for everyone somewhere in this mix!

Apple Cinnamon - Calories: 180; Total Fat: 2g; Saturated Fat: 0.5g; Trans Fat: 0g; Carbs: 27g; Fiber: 3g; Sugars: 17g; Protein: 14g

Blueberry - Calories: 190; Total Fat: 4g; Saturated Fat: 1g; Trans Fat: 0g; Carbs: 25g; Fiber: 3g; Sugars: 14g; Protein: 14g

Orange Cranberry - Calories: 190; Total Fat: 5g; Saturated Fat: 2.5g; Trans Fat: 0g; Carbs: 24g; Fiber: 3g; Sugars: 11g; Protein: 14g

Banana Nut - Calories: 200; Total Fat: 6g; Saturated Fat: 1.5g; Trans Fat: 0g; Carbs: 24g; Fiber: 3g; Sugars: 12g; Protein: 14g

Breakfast suggestion: If you have time before you leave the house, take it out of the wrapper and pop it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. It adds that "just out of the oven" goodness to make you feel like you put a lot more effort into your breakfast preparation than you actually did.

Snack suggestion: These bars are great to fuel a workout after a day at work. 1-2 hours before your workout, eat half of the bar while you sip some water. Then, place the remainder of the bar in your gym bag. If you are headed straight to eat dinner after your workout, save the rest of the bar for the next day. However, if you're going to be a while before you get to eat again (have to pick up the kids, need a shower, you have to cook first, etc.), go ahead and finish the bar. This will prevent you from overeating later, and you can go ahead and refuel while your metabolism is still high.