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6 simple tricks to make healthy habits stick, according to our nutritionists

Is it just me or is it harder to build a habit the older we get? My inability to stop hitting the snooze button approximately 11 times every morning leads me to think, “Well, I guess the habits I have now are the only ones I will ever have for the rest of my life.” Our reliable friend science will tell you one portion of this thinking is correct, and the other is, well, a bit dramatic. It is in-fact harder to form new habits as an adult, but still possible!

But why is it so hard to form new habits?

New habits are harder to form as we age thanks to this little-terrifying-sounding-thing called synaptic pruning. Synaptic pruning is your brain’s way of making sure you can do things like take a shower, turn off lights, pour a glass of water, etc. without thinking twice (impressive!). Of course, getting really good at tasks you perform daily leaves less brain space for things you do less frequently- like remembering to send your friend a birthday card so it arrives before their actual birthday (it’s not me it’s my synapses!).

To summarize, we have lots of pathways in play for all our daily habits, and to solidify new habits, we need to make new pathways. This can be a lot of work for our dusty old adult brains, but luckily there are tricks we can use to make the process a little easier. Here are 6 simple habit hacks from Persona’s very own nutritionists. 

1. Allie’s tip: Practice habit stacking

Believe it or not, we can actually use synaptic pruning to our advantage when we attach new behaviors to existing ones with habit stacking. Here’s how: First, pick a new habit you’re trying to build, like taking your vitamins daily. Next, pick a behavior you already do everyday without thinking, like brushing your teeth. Now, stack em’. After you brush your teeth, take your vitamins. After you have your coffee,  meditate. After you close your laptop for the day, put on your walking shoes. You get it. Try this exercise with a new habit you have in mind. With a little self-awareness and planning, habit stacking is an easy trick to help you become more successful in your behavior change.

2. Gina’s tip: Link your new habit to an existing routine.

Working out (pre-pandemic) was a social activity for me. When the pandemic hit, it was a struggle to remain active. To get back at it, I started to associate my workouts with other aspects of my day. The second I’m done with work, it’s time for a quick caffeine boost and into my workout clothes. That means no scrolling through reels, and absolutely no Netflix. Getting into my workout gear right when I’m done with work (and before feeling the tiredness kick in) helped me to follow through and stick to my exercise goals. 

3. Hayley’s tip: Tackle your most daunting task first. You won’t regret it!

Working out in the morning helps me set my day up for success. I hop out of bed and head to the gym within 10 minutes, that way, I don’t have the time to dread the workout all day or put it off. I always lay my workout clothes out before bed and fill up my water bottle to just grab it and go in the morning. Working out in the morning helps me have a productive day.

4. Mackenzie’s tip: Look for patterns in your daily routine to help take existing habits and create new ones.

Working from a desk all day can make it hard to find time to get up and move. I really wanted to increase my daily steps, so I committed to taking walks on my lunch break to get my body moving. Now, this is a daily habit that I look forward to. It has helped increase my energy, allows me to get my daily dose of Vitamin D and gets me closer to my step goals! 

5. Claire’s tip: plan! Think of one thing you can do to make your habit easier to accomplish and do it!

Set small goals at the beginning of the week and take time on day one to put things in place for you to be successful at that goal. When I wanted to start drinking more water, I made sure to get a 64 oz jug that I could fill up every morning and keep at my desk. 

6. Karina’s tip: Set up visual cues, an aptly placed post-it note can go a long way.  

I use little written notes or post-its to remind myself to do things. When I couldn’t remember to take my vitamins, I wrote “VITAMINS” in marker on my toothbrush. It ended up being super reliable and now I take my vitamins morning and evening. 

If you’re struggling with taking your supplements, read 5 tips to make swallowing pills easier to help you out.

About Allie 

Allie is a spin-class-teaching, triathlon-winning nutritionist who loves to help others. She has a Master’s degree in nutrition and has published academic research on improving food access for underserved populations. 

Allie is just one of the many experts at Persona who are here to accelerate your wellness journey. If you have questions about nutrition or your personalized program, reach out now or book a free appointment with Allie or another of our amazing nutritionists. 

This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. Do not use the information from this article for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this article. 

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6 Reasons Your Child Might Need a Daily Vitamin Program

Every single day in my busy pediatric practice, parents ask me if their child needs a daily multivitamin, or what are the best vitamins for kids.  They are appropriately concerned about their child’s health, growth, development and well-being.  They worry that their child will miss school because of illness.  Or, sustain broken bones because they participate in a lot of sports and don’t get enough vitamin D.  Or, they notice that their child is tired, not focusing well, has a limited diet or poor appetite. There are several reasons why a multivitamin program can have a positive impact on all of the above and there are six that should be top of mind to give parents some much needed peace of mind!

 

No. 1 – They turn their nose up to fruits and vegetables – especially the dark green leafy kind.

I’m sure parents are not surprised by this! A dislike of vegetables and/or fruits is not uncommon. We all want kids to “eat a rainbow,” meaning a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables, but some will not eat anything colorful unless it is candy. The vitamins, minerals and fiber in fruits and vegetables are necessary for maintaining overall good health. If a child won’t eat them or is a very picky eater, choosing to eat only a couple fruits and vegetables, then starting a multivitamin program for kids can be key to filling nutritional gaps.

 

No. 2 – They don’t spend much time outside. 

Kids and teens are often deficient in vitamin D.  They spend a lot of time indoors and when outside, they wear sunscreen (and should). The pandemic lockdown limited kids’ outdoor activities even more. What does this mean? It means that they are probably not getting enough vitamin D, which puts them at risk for skeletal disease and various metabolic, cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases.  Vitamin D is made by the skin upon exposure to sunshine, and it can be obtained through diet, like vitamin D fortified milks and orange juices. If you turn to adding vitamin D fortified orange juice to your child’s diet, an added bonus is that orange juice contains vitamin C as well, so you’ll be supporting your child’s immune system too!

 

The sun is the most important natural source of vitamin D, yet sun exposure is discouraged because of the potential for the development of skin cancers and premature aging.  The best way to support your child’s health is to make sure their daily multivitamin has the proper amount of Vitamin D.

 

No. 3 – They are repeatedly under / overweight at their yearly wellness checkup.

This is something I’ve seen more of recently due to the pandemic: kids’ weights fluctuated out of their usual range.  Some gained too much weight from not eating properly.  Many were running to the pantry every hour between virtual classes at home to grab a quick – and often processed – snack  or other junk food. Couple this with staying up too late and eating into the night, and you can easily see how the pounds can stack up.  On the other hand, some kids had poor weight gain because meal routines were off schedule or they were less active, contributing to a decrease in appetite.  Either excessive weight gain or poor weight gain indicate that the proper balance of nutrients are likely lacking in the diet. Children will snack on processed snacks in small baggies a few times a day. Vitamin C and vitamin D gummy vitamins for kids may be a good and healthy substitute to at least one of those quick snacks throughout the day.

 

No. 4 – They are frequently sick with upper respiratory infections.

Kids typically get at least 6-8 respiratory infections per year, especially younger kids.  Supporting the immune system is a very important step in reducing the frequency of respiratory infections. Poor diet can impair the function of the immune system, leading to an increased chance your child will become ill.  We all need a well-balanced diet with a variety of fruits and vegetables. These serve as good sources of vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, selenium, B vitamins, and iron, just to mention a few of the vitamins and minerals known to be important in supporting immune function.

 

No. 5 – They have a difficult time focusing.

All parents want to support their child’s ability to focus and pay attention on a daily basis.  Good nutrition is key to a child performing at his or her best, in school and out. If children are eating processed junk foods with high sugar content instead of nutrient-dense foods, their blood sugar swings and they lack proper nutrients so their ability to function at their best is impaired. In addition, for focus, attention, memory, and mood, it is important to consume foods that contain phosphatidylserine.  This phospholipid is a component of cell membranes and aids in cell signaling.  It also acts an antioxidant helping to reduce the effects of dangerous free radicals in the body.  It is found in organ meats like chicken liver and beef liver, eggs, white beans, and soy products.  Though it is difficult to get enough of this important nutrient, a daily supplement can augment this component of your child’s diet.

 

No. 6 – Their bowel movements (“#2s”) are hard and infrequent.

If a child passes large, hard, infrequent stools, then it is likely their diet is lacking a healthy variety of nutrients and fiber, prebiotics, and probiotics. Constipation also affects appetite which further impairs nutritional intake.  Adding a nutrient-rich, daily multivitamin program that contains inulin, a natural soluble fiber that acts as a prebiotic, will aid in the passage of stools, relieving a myriad of constipation symptoms.

 

Gummy Vitamins for Kids

All parents want to provide proper nutrition for their kids to grow and thrive, yet this is often a challenge.  Most kids do not eat perfectly every day.  The good news is that parents can relieve a significant source of their own stress and anxiety by providing their children with a natural, scientifically backed, doctor approved daily vitamin program based on the child’s health goals.  This seamlessly fills gaps in a child’s diet, and will support a healthy immune system, while also supporting mood, focus and attention, and digestion. Sometimes children will have trouble with swallowing kids vitamins in capsules. To simplify this, companies like Persona Nutrition offer vitamin C, vitamin D, and others in the form of gummy vitamins for kids. If you have a chance, check out Persona’s Immune Support Kids daily gummy packs for a combination of three vitamins, all in one daily pack. Time to get started!

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Ways to help reduce stress

Stress is an inevitable part of life. We all experience stress at some point, whether it’s due to work relationships, finances or so many other things. But that also doesn’t mean we need to go about living life feeling constantly on edge or try to just toughen it out. There are some helpful tweaks you can make to your routine to fend off stress.

Here are 7 that’s helped me.

1. Get a workout in

Moving your body is a great way to fight off those stressful feelings. Exercise helps give an outlet for the physical and emotional tension that builds up – after an intense workout sesh, your body releases endorphins, the feel-good chemicals that reduce the feelings of stress and poor mood. And it helps increase blood flow to your brain to improve mental clarity and focus. The movement you do doesn’t have to be an intense workout – even light to moderate exercises like walking, biking or yoga helps amplify endorphins.

2. Spend time with family and friends

When our stress levels increase, we tend to close ourselves off. Consider reaching out to a family member or friend when you feel down. Social connections are a great way to relieve stress because they provide a safe space to unload and unwind. When you spend time with people that care – you feel valued and supported, which helps boost confidence and a sense of belonging. Not only that, but spending time with loved ones can also help you relax and have fun. Laughing and talking and engaging in activities that you enjoy can help you feel more positive and upbeat while reducing feelings of stress. It is true that we all need an outlet, so remember to check in with your bestie when times get tough!

3. Eat a balanced, nutrient-dense diet

It is important to remember that your diet has a direct impact on all aspects of life, mental health included! By nourishing your body with a nutrient-dense diet, you’re giving your body the quality fuel it needs to better handle both physical and mental stress and feel more resilient in the face of stress. For instance, fruits and veggies help lower cortisol levels, your main stress hormone. Healthy fats reduce inflammation and proteins helps stabilize blood sugars for steady energy and mood. On the flip side, some foods can exacerbate stress levels and increase feelings of nervousness and stress. A diet high in processed foods, caffeine and alcohol can disrupt sleep patterns, raise cortisol and worsen feelings of anxiety.

Reach for nutrient-dense, functional foods such as fruits, vegetables and lean proteins to support mind and body wellness. Focusing on whole foods and limiting processed snacks will improve your body’s resilience to stress.

4. Prioritize quality sleep

Sleep is essential for managing stress because it allows your body and mind to rest and recharge. When you sleep, your body repairs damaged tissues, your brain consolidates memories and processes emotions, and your hormones reset for the next day. Without enough sleep, your body and mind can’t function properly, leading to increased stress levels.

In fact, studies have shown that sleep deprivation can increase levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, and decrease levels of serotonin, the hormone associated with happiness and well-being. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, irritability, and depression, making it even harder to manage stress.

On the other hand, getting enough sleep can help you feel more resilient and better equipped to handle stress. A good night’s sleep can improve your mood, increase your focus and productivity, and boost your immune system, all of which can help you manage stress more effectively.

So, if you’re looking to manage stress, don’t forget the importance of sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night, establish a consistent sleep routine, and create a comfortable sleep environment. Your body and mind will thank you, and you’ll be better prepared to take on whatever challenges come your way.

5. Limit Your Caffeine Intake

While caffeine can give you a boost in energy, it can also increase stress levels. Caffeine is a stimulant and a little amount can actually have a positive effect on stress – it increases alertness, improves focus and helps with mood so you’re better able to resolve the stressors at hand. But too much or too late in the day can also have negative impacts. Caffeine also increases heart rate and cortisol, which can make you feel more nervous, jittery and irritable, making it harder to manage stress. Not just that, but it can also disrupt your sleep at night. Limit your caffeine intake to 400 mg per day, this equates to about 4 cups of brewed coffee.

6. Keep a Journal

Journaling can be a powerful tool for managing stress. When you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious, it can be hard to make sense of all your thoughts and emotions, but writing is a great way to release any built-up emotion. Putting pen to paper can also help with mental clarity and get perspective on your experience, allowing you to feel more in control and better able to cope with stress. You can make your journal whatever you want it to be, not for anyone else’s reading pleasure! No structure necessary, just a safe and private space to jot down your thoughts and feelings. Just pick up a pen and get those feelings out. This process is also great for self-reflection.

7. Put the phone down

We live in a world ruled by smart phones and computers. Although these devices are necessary, overuse can increase stress levels. Your phone can create a constant stream of notifications and distractions, whether it’s emails, social media alerts or news updates – the constant barrage of information can make it difficult to focus and relax. Consider dedicating time during the day to being present and put the screens away. Utilize the time to prioritize self-care, whatever that means to you! This may consist of a bubble bath, skin care, tidying up your space or listening to your favorite music.

About Briana

Briana is a Nutritionist with a degree in Nutritional Sciences from Mansfield University of Pennsylvania. She has a passion for educating others about the importance of Nutrition, and the power of a progressive relationship with diet and wellness.  

Briana is just one of the many experts at Persona who are here to accelerate your wellness journey. If you have questions about nutrition or your personalized program, reach out now or book a free appointment with Briana or another of our amazing nutritionists. 

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.     

This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. Do not use the information from this article for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal, or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this article.       

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What can a nutritionist do for me?

Picture this: you’re taking your supplement packs every morning and everything’s going great, then one day, you realize you’re feeling more stressed than usual. You feel something may be missing from your program but you’re not sure what. Or maybe you’ve been forgetting to take your night packs and worried that you’re not getting all the benefits you need. Wherever you’re at in your health journey—and no matter what questions you may have—our amazing team of nutritionists are here to help: 

1) They’re supplement savants (and better than Google!) 

Personalized vitamins are designed to complement your diet, exercise, health goals, and lifestyle (…which is awesome!). But what happens when you’ve never heard of one of the pills in your pack, or want to know about other options, or need help with a new issue—like a buzzing mind? A Google search will pull up some answers, but with all the information (and misinformation) out there, it’s hard to know what to believe. Persona’s nutritionists have accredited degrees in nutrition and know the research; they can tell science from snake oil and help guide you to a plan that’s right for you. Plus, it’s just better to talk to a real person—especially if you’re like me and tend to have at least five sorry-one-more-question’s when learning something new. And that’s okay; our nutritionists are happy to answer! 

2) They go beyond the assessment 

During an appointment, nutritionists can offer help beyond the assessment. It’s a one-on-one conversation that lets you share more detail about your needs, goals and gaps in your diet, so they can adjust your recommendations if needed. Maybe you’re loving your supplements one month but feeling they’re off the next. Or wondering if you should tweak your packs to fit a new fitness plan. Life happens, and it can be hard for an online assessment to keep up. Our nutritionists can help you fill that gap. 

3) They’re full of tips and tricks 

Sometimes you have all the pieces in place, but you still struggle to stick to a wellness routine. Maybe you hate swallowing pills or don’t like the taste or just forget to take them. Trust me, nutritionists know all about these struggles. Luckily, they have some great tricks up their sleeves to help you out. Got a question about nutrition? They have an answer!  

If you’re ready, book your free, one-on-one consult with a nutritionist. It’s included with your subscription. Take advantage!  

 

 

About Gabby   

Gabby is a nutritionist with a master’s degree in strategic communications. She loves using her nutrition-fluency with storytelling to encourage positive change. Before Persona, she worked at a mental health clinic helping clients manage stress, anxiety and other mental health issues through diet.    

This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. Do not use the information from this article for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this article.   

 

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What Is Inulin?

By Elizabeth Somer, M.A., R.D., author of Eat Your Way to Happiness, and medical advisory board member for Persona Nutrition

 

You probably have heard of fiber. But have you heard of inulin? It’s worth a look, because this new kid on the nutrient block has some important health benefits.

 

Inulin is a group of carbohydrate-like substances found in a variety of foods, from garlic, onions, and leeks to bananas, artichokes, asparagus, and whole wheat. Chicory root is the richest source of inulin, so is the primary source for inulin in supplements and fortified foods. It has a creamy and sweet texture, so it is used in foods as a fat and/or sugar replacer and to improve texture. (1,2)

 

Digestive Health Benefits

The inulin story begins with gut health. Your gut environment, called the microbiome, contains a population of tens of thousands of different good and bad bacteria. The right balance is important for gut health and to protect the body from disease. The healthy bacteria are called probiotics and include lactobacillus and bifidobacteria. Inulin is what the experts call a “prebiotic,” which means it is fermented in the GI tract and supports a healthy microbiome by encouraging the growth and activity of these probiotics.* For example, inulin can help relieve constipation in everyone from kids to seniors, it may reduce GI infections and inflammation. (1-8)

 

Inulin Benefits

But, that’s just the tip of the nutritional iceberg. Inulin is a soluble fiber, so it slows digestion and allows carbohydrates and sugars to be released slowly into the blood stream. This helps stabilize blood sugar and maintain normal blood sugar levels. (9) In addition, inulin improves the absorption of several nutrients, including calcium and magnesium, and may be useful in increasing bone density. (7-9) Saving the best for last – being a soluble fiber, inulin helps slow digestion, increase feelings of fullness, and suppresses appetite, so is a worthwhile addition to the diet for those trying to maintain or lose weight. (10,11) Alongside Inulin we suggest looking into what is collagen.

 

Just don’t overdo it (think, “the key to success is balance”)! Like any fiber, inulin can cause gas and bloating, especially if you jump into a fiber-rich diet too soon. If a fiber-rich diet is new to you, then drink lots of water and start with a small dose of 2 to 3 grams of inulin a day. For easy reference, Persona’s Adult Immune Support Prebiotic gummy vitamin contains 3.6 grams of inulin per day through chicory root powder. Even if you do experience some bloating or gas, the symptoms subside with use and are most common when intake is high, such as 30 grams a day. Of course, like any supplement, if you have concerns or questions about inulin fiber, always discuss them with your doctor.

 

Inulin is just one ingredient in a healthful life. You’ll stack the deck in favor of living a long and healthful life if you also pack the plate with colorful fruits and vegetables, 100% whole grains, legumes, and other unprocessed foods; fill in the nutritional gaps with a personalized supplement program designed specifically for you; exercise daily; and sleep well.

 

*The combined effect of probiotics and prebiotics is called synbiotics.

References:

  1. Niness K: Inulin and oligofructose: What are they? J Nutr 1999;129 (7 Suppl):1402S-1406S.
  2. Shoaib M, Shehzad A, Omar M, et al: Inulin: Properties, health benefits and food applications. Carbohydr Polym 2016;147:444-454.
  3. Kolida S, Tuohy K, Givson G: Prebiotic effects of inulin and oligofructose. Br J Nutr 2002;87 (suppl 2):S193-S197.
  4. Watzl B, Girrbach S, Roller M: Inulin, oligofructose and immunomodulation. Br J Nutr 2005;93 (suppl1):S49-S55.
  5. Casellas F, Borruel N, Torrejon A, et al: Oral oligofructose-enriched inulin supplementation in acute ulcerative colitis is well tolerated and associated with lowered faecal calprotectin. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2007;25:1061-1067.
  6. De Vrese M, Schrezenmier J: Probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics.  Adv Biochem Eng Biotechnol 2008;111:1-66.
  7. Costa G, Vasconcelos Q, Abreu G, et al: Changes in nutrient absorption in children and adolescents caused by fructans, especially fructooligosaccharides and inulin. Arch Pediatr 2020;27:166-169.
  8. Scholz-Ahrens K, Schrezenmier J: Inulin and oligofructose and mineral metabolism. J Nutr 2007;137 (suppl):2513S-2523S.
  9. Weaver C: Inulin, oligofructose and bone health. Br J Nutr 2005;93 (suppl 1):S99-S103.
  10. Chambers E, Viardot A, Psichas A, et al: Effects of targeted delivery of propionate to the human colon on appetite regulation, body weight maintenance and adiposity in overweight adults. Gut 2015;64:1744-1754.
  11. Guess N, Dornhorst A, Oliver N, et al: A randomized controlled trial: The effect of inulin on weight management and ectopic fat in subjects with prediabetes. Nutr Metal 2015;12:36.

 

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How to Get the Most Out of Your Supplement Program 

When it comes to supplementation, it can be difficult to know where to start. There are countless products out there claiming to be the “best” option for you. We’re here to clear the noise and provide tactical information to get the most out of your supplement routine. At Persona, our goal is to support your unique health journey with the most effective, nutrient dense supplements on the market.

 

1. Bioavailability

    • Not all supplements are created equal. At Persona, we select the best vitamin bioavailability to ensure your body can utilize as much as possible. For example, vitamin D supplements can be found in two forms: vitamin D2 and vitamin D3. We use vitamin D3 – it is the preferred form since it is better absorbed by the body and found in most foods that naturally contain the vitamin.
    • It’s also important to consider common variations and conditions that can affect your body’s ability to absorb a nutrient. For example, our multivitamins use a methylated form of folic acid, called “methylfolate” to accommodate a common a gene variation that doesn’t allow you to fully utilize folic acid.
    • This is often overlooked, but timing We provide convenient packs distributed by time of day to ensure you are pairing your supplements with a meal when it matters. For example, fat-soluble vitamins are best absorbed with a meal, so we always place your multivitamin in a breakfast or dinner pack.

2. Nutrient Synergy

    • Your body’s ability to absorb nutrients from your food can be significantly influenced by what it is paired with. For example on the topic of vitamin absorption, did you know that vitamin C helps your body absorb iron? With this in mind, we formulated our iron supplement with 250 milligrams of vitamin C to ensure you get the most out of your supplement. Our team of doctors, nutritionists, RDs and pharmacists take nutrient synergy into consideration when selecting and/or formulating all our supplements.
    • We also ensure you never take any supplement combinations that inhibit or negatively affect vitamin absorption. For example, we never place iron and calcium in the same pack because calcium is known to hinder iron absorption.

 

3. More Than a Multi

    • Multivitamins have been popular since WWII, when they were rolled out to fight malnutrition. Today, roughly 1 in 3 Americans still take them. And while these all-in-one pills can help fill nutrition gaps, too many people misunderstand them, assuming they’ll address specific health concerns they were never intended to fix.
    • Recent innovations in tech and nutrition science have given rise to a new, powerful solution: personalized nutrition. Persona is a leader in this field. We help our customers support their nutrition beyond just a multivitamin while removing the guesswork around what is best for you. Personalized vitamin packs curated by a doctor-designed algorithm can help you address specific health needs in a way a multivitamin alone never could.

 

4. Consider Dose/Strength:

    • When it comes to selecting the dose/strength of your supplements, it’s important take several factors into consideration such as diet, age, activity level, medications, and sunlight exposure, to name a few. You must also be careful about exceeding upper limits, as some nutrients can be harmful in high doses.
    • At Persona, we remove the guesswork and recommend specific doses based your unique answers to our questionnaire. We also monitor upper limits closely to ensure you never receive a recommendation that could be harmful.

5. Quality Ingredients

    • At Persona, we work strategically with suppliers we trust to source the highest quality ingredients. All our formulas are backed by the latest research to ensure they meet your body’s needs efficiently. Our goal is always to offer more benefit with fewer pills.
    • For example, most Ashwagandha supplements use only the root of the Withania somifera At Persona, we use a patented, organic Ashwagandha called Sensoril®. Sensoril® is derived from both leaves and roots of the plant, delivering the highest level of bioavailability in vitamins on the market.

6. Medications & Drug-Nutrient Interactions

    • Store shelves are stocked with vitamins and supplements made for the masses, and most don’t consider the interactions that can occur between supplements and medications. Drug nutrient interactions affect efficacy and can be dangerous. To lessen the chance of interaction, Persona makes sure to eliminate all supplements that contain ingredients that might react adversely with your medications. It’s important to consider your current medications before starting a nutrition program.
    • We take this a step further and recommend additional supplements based on what your medications may be depleting you of. For example, cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins) inhibit your body’s production of CoQ10, which is essential in preserving the energy supplies of our cells. So, we recommend additional CoQ10 when statins are indicated for added support.

 

7. Consider Convenience:

    • Consistency is key with supplementation. It can take time to build up depleted nutrient stores in the body. So, why not set yourself up for success? At Persona, we make it easy to remember to take your supplements with daily, individual packs.

 

Above all else, when you are shopping for supplements, make sure you are looking for a brand that has doctors, nutritionists and other nutrition experts working behind the scenes. These are the health care professionals who are staying up to date on the latest nutrition research. Take Persona’s free online assessment to learn about your personalized recommendation before shopping for vitamins.

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Why You Need Ginger in Your Diet: 10 Health Benefits of Ginger

Ginger is much more than a tasty culinary spice. There is a long list of ginger benefits that are worth exploring. It has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine and traditional Chinese medicine. Recent research shows that many of the health benefits of ginger in traditional medicine are found to be effective in controlled studies as well.  You can enjoy many of the health benefits of ginger by adding it to food, making ginger tea, and drinking lemon ginger water. If you want to take advantage of the therapeutic properties of ginger, but dislike the taste, it is also available as an extract in liquid or capsule form. Below are explanations of ten of the top health benefits of ginger.

Health Benefits of Ginger

1. Ginger may help support you in reaching your weight loss goals

In a review of the literature, researchers found that ginger shows promise when it comes to losing weight across multiple studies. A study that included 80 obese women between the ages of 18 and 45 found that ‘ginger consumption has potential in managing obesity.’

2. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties

In several studies, ginger has shown promise as an anti-inflammatory. Patients dealing with chronic issues like osteoarthritis who used ginger reported less stiffness and improved physical functioning. Chronic inflammation is associated with a number of serious conditions including heart disease, diabetes, bowl diseases, and arthritis. The health benefits of ginger as an anti-inflammatory have the potential to be far reaching.

3. Ginger may help protect your oral health

Gingivitis and periodontitis are inflammatory gum diseases that can cause a number of problems for your oral and overall health. Components found in ginger have been shown to inhibit the growth of the pathogens that cause gum disease. For people who are prone to gum disease, ginger benefits may extend to your overall oral health.

4. Ginger may help relieve gastrointestinal distress

Ginger has been used to treat symptoms of gastrointestinal distress in Asian medicine for centuries. Modern research is exploring the effectiveness of ginger to provide relief in this area. Research shows that ginger may help relieve constipation and reduce flatulence.

5. Ginger may help lower your LDL cholesterol

Supplementing with ginger or adding it into your diet may have a positive impact on your LDL cholesterol. This is the type of cholesterol that is associated with plaque building up in your arteries. An animal study found that ginger extract consumption significantly reduced LDL cholesterol in participants.

6. Ginger may ease nausea

Ginger has long been used to help ease nausea and vomiting. In a double blind study, researchers found that patients who took ginger before major surgery experienced less nausea and vomiting after the procedure than those who took a placebo. Ginger has also been shown to help reduce morning sickness and nausea in pregnant women.

7. Ginger has potential for the prevention of disease

A study of almost 5,000 adult participants found that ginger has a ‘potential preventative property against some chronic diseases.’ In the study, the probability of diseases like hypertension and coronary heart disease went down as the level of daily ginger intake increased.

8. Ginger may help reduce pain

Multiple studies have found that supplementing with ginger or adding it to your diet can have help reduce pain. One study found that ginger was as effective as ibuprofen in managing swelling and pain after oral surgery.

9. Ginger may support brain health

There is exciting research that investigates the possibility of using components in ginger to develop better treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. Other research has found that ginger benefits include increased cognitive function and improved working memory.

10. Ginger may help prevent or reduce allergy symptoms

An animal study found that components in ginger may help prevent or alleviate allergy symptoms like stuffiness, sneezing, runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes.

Ways to Consume Ginger in Your Daily Diet

You can experience ginger benefits by adding it to food while you cook. Ginger is a popular spice in Asian-inspired savory dishes and holiday inspired baked goods. Other options for consuming ginger in your daily diet include taking a ginger supplement and drinking ginger tea or lemon ginger water.

1. Ginger Supplement

If you do not like the taste of ginger or simply do not cook enough with it to experience all of the health benefits of ginger, consider adding a daily ginger supplement.  A high-quality ginger supplement can provide you with all of the ginger benefits that are available.

2. Ginger Tea (Check out our recipe)

Ginger tea is another way to add ginger to your daily diet. Ginger tea benefits include nausea relief, reduced inflammation, improved circulation, and several more. Check out our simple and delicious ginger tea recipe and experience all of the lemon ginger tea benefits for yourself.

3. Lemon Ginger Immune Boost

The combination of lemon and ginger can pack a tasty and powerful punch to your diet. If you are looking for a natural and delicious way to feel your best and boost your immunity, check out Lemon Ginger Immune Boost.

What are the benefits of ginger and lemon?

Ginger and lemon benefits may help support your immune system, fight free radicals, and support a healthy inflammatory response. Drinking lemon ginger water is a simple and tasty way to experience the benefits that ginger and lemon have to offer.

Why choose Persona for supplement intake?

Persona nutrition simplifies the process of choosing and taking supplements. Your wellness goals and health concerns are unique. Because of this, taking a one-size-fits-all supplement will not provide you with the results you want. The Persona Nutrition assessment is designed to help you find the unique combination of supplements that are right for you. Take our assessment and discover the combination of supplements that will help you move toward achieving your wellness goals and feeling your best. Persona also makes it easy to take your daily supplements. You will receive a customized daily supplement packs that you simply open and take. This eliminates the complicated and time-consuming task of separating out your supplements each day.

Ginger is much more than a tasty culinary spice. There is a long list of ginger benefits that are worth exploring. It has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine and traditional Chinese medicine. Recent research shows that many of the health benefits of ginger in traditional medicine are found to be effective in controlled studies as well.  You can enjoy many of the health benefits of ginger by adding it to food, making ginger tea, and drinking lemon ginger water. If you want to take advantage of the therapeutic properties of ginger, but dislike the taste, it is also available as an extract in liquid or capsule form. Below are explanations of ten of the top health benefits of ginger.

If you are looking for the highest quality Vitamin and Mineral Supplements personalized for you, please go to www.personanutrition.com and take their on-line questionnaire providing individualized vitamin and mineral recommendations. Persona is the only Science Based supplement provider on the web today! Take advantage of their knowledge and use it to your health’s benefit!
This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. Do not use the information from this article for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this article.
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Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar: Hair, Weightloss, Detox

One of the hottest nutritional supplements currently on the market is apple cider vinegar. If you have noticed the excitement, you may be asking the question, ‘What is apple cider vinegar good for?’ Apple cider vinegar has been used for thousands of years to treat a number of common ailments. Current research shows that it also has properties that can have a positive impact on your overall wellness and long-term health.

What is apple cider vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is apple juice that has been fermented using yeast. When the yeast is introduced, the natural sugars in the apple juice ferment. This changes the makeup of the juice from sweet to acidic. The change that apple juice undergoes during the fermentation process is also what gives apple cider vinegar its beneficial properties.

Why you should drink apple cider vinegar.

Drinking apple cider vinegar can provide you with a number of health and wellness benefits. It is worth exploring the range of health benefits that apple cider vinegar can provide to determine if it is something that can improve your health and quality of life.

What is the ‘Mother’ in apple cider vinegar drinks?

Apple cider vinegar with mother simply means that yeast and healthy bacteria used in the fermentation process are still present in the apple cider vinegar. If you notice that the apple cider vinegar looks murky at the bottom of the bottle, the murkiness you are seeing is the ‘mother’.

Apple cider vinegar health benefits

  1. Apple cider vinegar may help support you in reaching your weight loss goals.

Apple cider vinegar weight loss is possible because ACV may help you feel full. Research shows that supplementing with vinegar may increase the feeling of fullness after eating. An apple cider vinegar diet that includes daily consumption of ACV may help with weight gain and weight loss.

  1. Apple cider vinegar is a probiotic.

The yeast and bacteria found in apple cider vinegar have probiotic properties. This means that there are live, beneficial bacteria in apple cider vinegar. There is a mountain of research on the benefits of probiotics when it comes to gut health. Apple cider vinegar with mother has proteins, enzymes, and friendly bacteria that can be used in the prevention or treatment of conditions that range from irritable bowel syndrome to the recurrence of bladder cancer.

  1. Apple cider vinegar can help the look of your hair.

Apple cider vinegar for hair care is something that is gaining popularity. Many modern hair products are being blamed for hair and scalp issues including dry hair, frizzy hair, and dandruff. When the pH of your scalp gets out of whack, it can cause your hair to look frizzy and allow dandruff-causing bacteria to grow. Apple cider vinegar can be used to aid the natural pH of your scalp.

  1. Apple cider vinegar can reduce blood pressure.

Components in apple cider vinegar have been found to reduce blood pressure in animal studies.

  1. Apple cider vinegar can impact cholesterol.

Adding apple cider vinegar to your diet can have a positive impact on your cholesterol. A randomized, clinical trial found that introducing apple cider vinegar into your diet can help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL).

  1. Apple cider vinegar can be used as a natural cleaning and preservation agent.

If you are concerned about the potential impact of commercial home cleaning or food preservation products on the environment and your health, apple cider vinegar is a natural alternative.

What are some helpful nutrients in apple cider vinegar?

On its own, apple cider vinegar does not have high levels of vitamins or minerals. However, apple cider vinegar does come with strands of proteins, enzymes, and good bacteria that all contribute to its many health benefits.

Check out our apple cider vinegar gummies!

If you are convinced that incorporating apple cider vinegar into your life can provide benefits, check out our apple cider vinegar gummies!

What are the benefits of apple cider vinegar gummies?

It can be difficult to handle the harsh taste of drinking apple cider vinegar on its own. Because of this, many people try to consume it daily by adding it to water, tea, or food. The extra steps required to fit in apple cider vinegar makes it difficult to use it consistently. Persona Nutrition has solved that problem by offering apple cider vinegar gummies.  Goli Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies can provide you with health benefits of apple cider vinegar in an easy-to-take gummy form.

Are there any potential side effects of apple cider vinegar?

The worst potential side effects of apple cider vinegar come from consuming it as a liquid. Undiluted apple cider vinegar may erode the enamel of your teeth and potentially cause burns in your throat. Taking too much apple cider vinegar can also potentially lead to bone loss. It is important to consume apple cider vinegar in the appropriate form and at the appropriate levels.

How often should you drink apple cider vinegar or take the gummies?

Getting the appropriate amount of apple cider vinegar is an important part of enjoying the benefits without experiencing negative side effects. The recommended dose of apple cider vinegar is 1-2 tablespoons per day or 1-2 gummies, three times daily. No matter how you decide to consume apple cider vinegar, be sure and follow the recommended dosage and the advice of your doctor.

There is no easier way to get in your daily dose of apple cider vinegar than to take them in gummy form. Persona Nutrition has great tasting apple cider vinegar gummies that can complement the other supplements in your personalized lineup. Add apple cider vinegar gummies to your next delivery and experience them for yourself!

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Daphne Oz, “The Little Choices I Make to Protect My Own Happiness” as Heard on Off the Gram Podcast

Persona’s nutrition ambassador, Daphne Oz, was on today’s Off the Gram podcast with the show’s hosts, including Jamie Hess and Christine Bibbo-Herr.  In this segment, Daphne talks about the one woman who has influenced her life, the little choices she makes every day to protect her own happiness, the importance of body positivity especially in front of her kids, the importance of confidence and what her daily routine looks like.

The hosts are “sweating” Persona as a product in their daily lives and reveal which vitamins are in their custom packs, and Daphne shares what attracted her to this personalized nutrition company.

Hear more by listening HERE.

 

 

About Daphne Oz

Daphne Oz is an Emmy Award-winning television host, New York Times-bestselling author, chef, and entrepreneur focused on innovation in food and beverage, beauty, wellness, fashion and media. She is the newest judge to join renowned chefs Gordon Ramsay and Aaron Sanchez on FOX’s MasterChef Junior. Daphne also cohosts The Dish on Oz (a weekly series airing Wednesdays on The Dr. Oz Show), where she brings the latest in food news, family-friendly recipes, expert tricks, and social media-worthy indulgence to the small screen. Daphne was previously cohost of ABC’s The Chew for six seasons.  She cohosts the chart-topping podcast Mom Brain, where she shares candid conversations about parenting and how to raise happy, confident kids with trusted experts, doctors, celebrities and friends. Daphne’s delicious and refreshingly realistic approach to balanced living has made her an in-demand speaker on all things food, wellness, motherhood and lifestyle. A graduate of Princeton University, The Institute for Integrative Nutrition, and The Natural Gourmet Institute, Daphne and her husband have four children.

You can follow Daphne on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @DaphneOz.

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