#CGG: Epsom Salt Review & Giveaway:

As a mom, the one product I can always trust and rely on are Epsom Salts. Epsom Salt has been used for centuries to cure common ailments. As a child, I remember my mom using Epsom Salt to remove splinters, and sooth sprains and bruises. Epsom salts have amazing health benefits and may even help prevent heart disease, cancer, blood pressure, kidney stones, improve energy and improve your overall quality of sleep. In addition to its amazing health benefits, Epsom salt can also be used for Christmas craft projects such as decorating candles and frosting windows. Here are my favorite uses for Epsom Salt:

Epsom Salt For Beauty
Epsom Salt works wonderfully at exfoliating the skin. It helps to improve skins texture and will leave your skin feeling silky soft and smooth.

Exfoliate Dead Skin - In the shower or bath, mix a handful of Epsom Salt with a tablespoon of your favorite oil. Examples include olive oil or baby oil but my favorite is coconut oil.  Gently rub all over your wet skin to exfoliate and soften. Rinse thoroughly.

Alternatively, if you do not have oil on hand, you can use petroleum jelly instead. You will mix 2 cups of Epsom Salt with 1/4 cup of petroleum jelly and a few drops of lavender essential oil. Use the mixture to gently scrub away dry skin patches.

Hair Volumizer - Combine equal parts of deep conditioner and Epsom Salt and warm in a pan. Work the warm mixture through your hair and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly.

Remove Excess Oil From Hair - Epsom Salt soaks up excess oil from hair. Mix 9 tablespoons of Epsom salt with 1/2 cup of shampoo. Apply one tablespoon of the liquid to your hair when it is dry; rinse with cold water. Pour lemon juice or organic apple cider vinegar through the hair, leave on for 5-10 minutes, and then rinse.

Spa Treatment - After showering, massage handfuls of Epsom Salt over wet skin to exfoliate the body. It's the same treatment many upscale spas use, without the upscale price!

Facial - Mix 1/2 TSP of Epsom Salt into your favorite cleansing cream for a deep-pore cleansing. If you are unsure of what type of cleanser to use, Cetaphil is very gentle and works great on all skin types, especially sensitive skin. Massage on skin. Rinse with cool water. Pat dry.

Epsom Salt For Health
Magnesium (the key component of Epsom Salt) performs more functions in more systems of the human body than virtually any other mineral, including regulating the activity of more than 325 enzymes! Magnesium Sulfate helps to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. It forms essential joint proteins to keep your joints healthy. It also flushes toxins and improves the absorption of nutrients.

Athlete’s Foot - Soak feet in an Epsom salt bath to help relieve the symptoms of Athlete’s Foot.

Fibromyalgia - Add 2 - 4 cups of Epsom Salt in a warm bath to soothe aching muscles.

Stop Itching Caused By Bug Bites & Poison Ivy – Make a compress by soaking a washcloth in cold water that has been mixed with 2tbsp/cup Epsom Salt.

Epsom Salts can also be used to make beautiful holiday candles. I haven’t tried this yet, but I will definitely  be making my own holiday candles this year. These look expensive, but they are affordable on nearly every budget. Learn how to make Frosty Salted Pillar Candles.

Did you know Epsom Salt has various garden benefits? There are many ways to use Epsom Salt in the Garden. Visit the Epsom Salt Council’s garden usage tips to find out more!

The benefits of Epsom Salt seem to be never-ending. I’ve only mentioned a few of my favorite ways to enjoy Epsom Salt but there are so many more ways they can be used. To learn more, please visit The Epsom Salt Council.

Epsom Salt may be purchased at most mass retailers, pharmacies and drugstores. Look for it in a store near you! 

  

Epsom Salt has generously offered two cartons of Epsom Salt to one lucky Ultimate Christmas participant. The cartons you will receive will be identical to the one above. The design includes the many uses of Epsom Salt printed all over the box. This unique design cannot be purchased in stores! 

How To Enter:
Visit Epsom Salt and fill out the doc below telling us how you would like to enjoy your Epsom Salts most. This entry is mandatory & must be completed for bonus entries to count (Comment entries will not count).

How To Earn Additional Entries:
Fill out a separate form for each additional entry that you complete on the doc that we have provided below. After you click submit and would like to submit another just click refresh to clear form.

1. Follow Epsom Salt on Twitter
2. Tweet Daily @epsom_salt #UltimateChristmas #giveaway
3. Like Epsom Salt on Facebook.
4. Comment on Epsom Salt FB wall that you entered Ultimate Christmas giveaway at ...
5. Follow us on GFC (1x ea.) Review Retreat - Survey Junkie -  Little Yayas
6. Follow us on Twitter (1x ea.) Review Retreat - Survey Junkie - Little Yayas 
7. Subscribe to our email (1 x ea.) Review Retreat - Survey Junkie - Little Yayas
8. Blog about this giveaway- with a link back here AND Epsom Salt (please include the link directly to it not to your front page.) (2x) Leave link to your post
9. Snag the Ultimate Christmas Button (2x) Leave link where we can find

Contest Ends Thursday October 28th at 11:59 pm est.

www.epsomsaltcouncil.org

***USA Only***

*Disclaimer: Entrants must use Google Doc to enter and complete mandatory entry for additional entries to count.  One entry per household. Winner's are chosen at random.org and have 48 hours to respond to winning notification. I was provided with the feature item(s) at no cost by the manufacturer or its PR agency in order to test the product(s) and form my own personal opinions. The opinions and thoughts expressed are my own and may differ from others. I received no other compensation for my review nor was I under any obligation to give a positive review or host a giveaway.

Fit For Fall: The Biggest Loser Health Score Review

The Biggest Loser Know Your Number HealthScore is a unique health assessment tool that gives you a better idea of your overall health. Just like the contestants on the hit television series, The Biggest Loser, you'll receive a comprehensive health assessment which includes gathering your personal health information such as weight, height, blood pressure, family history, lifestyle habits as well as determining your cholesterol and blood sugar levels from a small blood sample. All of the above will determine your inner age as well as your risks of developing specific obesity related diseases; diabetes, heart attack or stroke within the next ten years.

The Biggest Loser Know Your Number Kit includes a micro sample collection kit which contains a sample collection cassette to obtain your blood sample, 2 safety lancets, a gauze pad, a bandage, a patient information card, a sample pouch to secure the sample collection cassette as well as a prepaid mailer to return the sample.

In order to properly assess your blood sugar levels, it’s suggested that you fast for at  least 9 hours, 12 hours ideally. I followed the fasting instructions and the next afternoon, I pricked my finger, and added a few drops of blood to the cassette. I then placed the cassette in the pouch, and placed this along with my information card in the prepaid envelope. Within a few days, the results are ready to view online.

The process was very quick and simple. I did however misunderstand the instructions. On the letter that I received with my Know Your Number Health Score Kit, it indicates a full color report will be mailed shortly after my results are received. I did not realize I had to first register online. I called the company who analyzes the blood collection, Home Access, and was expecting a call center environment. I imagined I would sit on hold for quite some time before being transferred. To my surprise, my call was taken on the first ring, by a real person! Very impressive!

Overwhelmed with shock and excitement, I overlooked the persons name who assisted me. I believe her name was Mary, though I could be wrong. She was very considerate and helpful. It took a few minutes for her to access my results, but she stayed on the line with me and did a wonderful job of explaining exactly what she was doing. When the results were available, she offered to give them to me orally while I wait for them to become available online. I can honestly say she is the most pleasant person that I have ever dealt with.

My health score came as a shock! I knew I had high blood pressure, but my health score revealed that I also have high cholesterol. I am still in shock by my results, therefore I still cannot say them out loud. The image to the right is similar to what you will view online. This includes your blood glucose and total cholesterol. If you click on the image, you will be able to view it in full size. I’m gasping right now, yes, those are my actual results.

The Biggest Loser Know Your Number HealthScore is a great tool to help you gain a better understanding of your overall health. I knew I had hypertension, but had no idea my cholesterol was high, especially nowhere near as high as it is. This tool should not replace your doctors visits, but it is a great tool to have on hand. My results have told me a lot and I am scheduled to see my physician next week to discuss my high cholesterol. My health score may have just saved my life. My extremely high blood pressure and high cholesterol combined is a recipe for disaster. I am thankful for this tool and have already recommended it to friends.

The Know Your Health Score kits start at $29.99. To find out more information, please visit the official Health Score website.

*Disclaimer: A sample product was provided to me in exchange for my honest review. The opinions and thoughts expressed are my own. I received no other compensation for my review nor was I under any obligation to give a positive review or host a giveaway.

Fit For Fall: Aligned and Well Smart Digestion DVD Review

You may have heard me say this before and I bet you will hear me say it again, but I strongly believe that getting fit is not only about looking good on the outside, but looking good on the inside as well. 

Katy Bowman, Biomechanist and founder of Aligned and Well, believes that human movement can affect our health. There’s a lot of interesting science behind it all, but what is really all boils down to is by altering our movements, we can improve common health issues such as fatigue, cramps, foot and back pain, inflammation, as well as more serious health concerns such as fibromyalgia, diabetes, and more!

Digestion plays a major role in how we go about our daily lives. Maybe your acid reflux is preventing you from making a lunch date. It could be that you aren’t up to shopping the latest sale because you are too constipated and bloated. If you suffer from a gastroenterological disorder, you know exactly what I’m talking about.

My digestion issues began as an infant. I was diagnosed with Hypertrophic Pyloric Stenosis. I underwent surgery and my health seemed to be as good as it could be. As a young teen, I began having a hard time keeping food down. I could swallow my food just fine but just minutes after eating, I could feel my food trying to come back up. I had to force myself to keep it down. I scheduled appointments with numerous doctors and was diagnosed with everything from acid reflux to bulimia. The doctors insisted my childhood disorder had nothing to do with my current condition and put me on prescription medication for acid reflux. Needless to say, the medication did not work, and I lived with this problem until I discovered Smart Digestion. Katy has discovered that even something as simple as a slouchy posture can cause problems with digestion!

Smart Digestion Is Designed To Help With The Following Ailments:

• Chronic Constipation
• Acid Reflux
• IBS
• Heartburn
• Bloating
• Difficulty Swallowing

This DVD Includes:

• An introduction to any movement habits you may have that can create chronic ailments, or make them worse.
• Five prescribed movements (Rx...ercisesTM) you can do to improve circulation, waste removal, muscle and bone strength, and overall health.
• Additional information on simple changes you can make to your daily life for improved health - specific to your situation.

This isn’t the typical exercise program. It’s designed to help heal rather than burn calories. It’s very low-impact and would be great for people of all ages. The Smart Digestion program offers a simple, natural solution by teaching new movement habits and pointing out any current habits that may be keeping you from feeling well. It begins with an introduction and leads into the exercises. Above is a “prescription label”. This is used during the video as an intro into the exercise Katy is about to demonstrate.

The Smart Digestion DVD includes five basic exercises to help with digestion. It is very easy to follow. Katy does a wonderful job of explaining each exercise as well as showing you exactly how to perform each exercise. She describes each move, why it is begin done and what areas it will help.

I like that this DVD is just 40 minutes long. It’s a quick and easy solution to the problems I have been trying to cure for years. Not only have I noticed an improvement in my “acid reflux” but I have gone from having a bowel movement twice a month to once per day. I feel rejuvenated in a sense. I’m not bloated, not afraid to eat and I finally have my energy back. I highly recommend Smart Digestion to anyone suffering from problems with their digestion

The Smart Digestion DVD retails for $14.45 and is available for purchase online. You can learn more by visiting Aligned and Well or by visiting Katy’s blog. Find her on Twitter and Facebook.

 

*Disclaimer: A sample product was provided to me in exchange for my honest review. The opinions and thoughts expressed are my own. I received no other compensation for my review nor was I under any obligation to give a positive review or host a giveaway.

Fit For Fall: NutraSea Fish Oil Review and Giveaway

Omega-3 supplements are great for so many different aspects of our health, with studies showing they can improve heart health, skin health and mental health, and Ascenta’s products provide the highest quality and purity available.

NutraSea tastes great and exceeds international guidelines for quality and purity. Sourced from the highest quality, sustainable fish stocks they guarantee purity and potency in every dose: with the Pure Check program, you can enter the batch number from your bottle on the Ascenta Web site and instantly view the results for your own specific bottle online.

For my review I chose NutraSea+D which helps to support a healthy heart, brain function and healthy bones and teeth. NutraSea+D is a pharmaceutical quality supplement, although no prescription is required. It’s an omega-3 supplement with added vitamin D3. It includes a balanced ration of EPA and DHA combined with 1000 IU of natural vitamin D3 for optimal health and well-being.

Ingredients: pharmaceutical quality fish oil (anchovies, sardines, mackerel), all natural  flavoring, natural tocopherols, green tea extract, vitamin D3.

Softgel Ingredients: gelatin, glycerin, purified water, all natural flavoring.

Serving: Adults 19 years and older take 4 softgels daily.

Health Benefits:
• Cardiovascular health
• Healthy bones & teeth
• Brain function
• Brain & eye development in children & adolescents

Once I opened my NutraSea+D supplements, I was expecting what any person would expect, that being a strong fishy odor. Instead, I was greeted with a refreshing apple scent. These smell wonderful which I find to be a very unique and desirable quality in fish oil supplements. 

The NutraSea+D comes with 120 softgels, which will last about a month if taken as directed. The softgels aren’t as large as other fish oil pills I’ve taken. They are easy to swallow and have a light apple taste to them. Although they are not enteric coated, they do not present a fishy reflux. I was absolutely amazed by this! I take fish oil on a regular basis to help with my hypertension and high cholesterol and NutraSea is the first supplement I have taken that did not leave my breath smelling like fish. Very impressive!

Ascenta products are available for purchase at high-quality health food stores including Vitamin Shoppes and Whole Foods, as well as online at VitaminShoppe.com. The NutraSea+D retails for around $24.99, depending on where it is purchased.

Visit www.AscentaHealth.com for more information, including information on the new NutraVege (an omega-3 for vegetarians) and NutraSea Kids (an omega-3 for children).

Win It:

1 lucky reader will win the Ascenta product of their choice!

How To Enter (required):

Visit Ascenta Health and let me know which product you would like to try most.

Extra Entries (optional):

1. Blog about this giveaway with a link back to this article(blog must have 25+ followers) +3
2. Follow Ascenta Health on Twitter.
3. Add the Fit For Fall button (located on the right sidebar) to your sidebar and tell me where to find it.
4. Follow Review Retreat publicly via Google Friend Connect.
5. Add my Fall Follower Giveaway Tour button.
6. Enter Simply Stacie’s Ascenta Giveaway.
7. Enter Little Yaya's Ascenta Giveaway.
8. Follow @Jennifer_Marek on Twitter.
9. Subscribe to my free newsletter (remember to confirm).
10. Add this giveaway to a linky & comment with linky url. +1 each linky
11. Tweet the following (1x daily, include tweet link)

Win Any Fish Oil Supplement from @ascenta_health @Jennifer_Marek #giveaway #hearthealth #cholesterol #health #contest http://bit.ly/aeiVAM

Details:

Giveaway begins on August 24, 2010 and ends on September 6, 2010 at 11:59 cst. Winner will be chosen using Random.org. Giveaway open to US only .

Email must be included in comment or easily available through your blogger profile. If I am unable to locate your email address, a new winner will be drawn. The winner will be selected from all of the entries from Simply Stacie, Review Retreat and Little Yayas unless otherwise stated. Good Luck!

*Disclaimer: A sample product was provided to me in exchange for my honest review. The opinions and thoughts expressed are my own. I received no other compensation for my review nor was I under any obligation to give a positive review or host a giveaway.

Fit For Fall: AgroLabs 12 Hour Overnight Cleanse & Detox Review

AgroLabs manufactures liquid dietary supplements which include natural ingredients such as wheatgrass, aloe, cranberry, açai berry, pomegranate, green tea, coconut water and more. All liquid dietary supplements they make are flash pasteurized and undergo a unique Aseptic process which allows AgroLabs to control the amount of heat exposed to their supplements, resulting in a much safer, fresher and healthier supplement.

I was able to try the 12 Hour Overnight Cleanse & Detox. This detox program includes  one (1) 3oz bottle Açai Triple Strength Cleanse and one (1) 3oz bottle Green Envy Triple Strength Detox. When combined, these two products help you feel lighter, slimmer, and energized without causing bulk, bloating, or discomfort.

Evening - Triple Strength Açai Cleanse:

• Made with all of the best from the açai berry, pure young green coconut water, green tea, aloe vera, hibiscus, ginger, senna and milk thistle.
• The fiber included in this cleanse includes a patented proprietary high fiber from the Amorphophallus Propol Konjac root. Just 3g of this fiber becomes 60g of fiber after consumption. You get all the benefits of fiber without the bulk, bloating or discomfort!
• Feel lighter
• Promotes proper intestinal & colon regularity and function
• Increases Energy
• Gentle

Morning - Green Envy Detox (Triple Strength):

• Contains natural juices.
• Premium blend of all-natural superfoods which support digestion, metabolism, and a healthy immune system.
• This delicious 3oz shot is made with barley grass, wheatgrass, green tea, broccoli, spirulina, chlorella, cucumber, spinach, kelp, and parsley as well as nutritional fibers, vitamins, minerals and amino acids.
• Detoxifies and cleanses the body
• Anti-Bloating
• Boosts energy and immunity
• Detoxifying
• Gentle
• Promotes proper digestion

The instructions are very easy to follow. Simply drink the Açai Triple Strength Cleanse at night and in the morning you are ready to drink the Green Envy Triple Strength Detox. Both supplements recommend drinking 16oz of water after drinking the supplement.

The 12 Hour Overnight Cleanse and Detox program is unlike any other detox program I have ever tried. From my experience, most detox programs are designed to work over the course of several days, others take weeks. This detox program works in just 12 hours!

I’m embarrassed to admit this, but I do not eat nearly enough fruits or vegetables as I should. I’m rather picky and most of the ingredients used in this program sent chills down my spine. Surprisingly, they weren’t bad at all! The Triple Strength Açai Cleanse had a light fruit scent and it tasted like grape juice with slight pear undertones. I was disappointed there wasn’t more! The Green Envy Detox had a very light smell, not bad at all. The taste of this reminded me of a combination of grape juice and apple juice. Both were very smooth and refreshing. The only part I had trouble with was drinking a full 16 ounces of water afterwards.

I must say, this 12 Hour Overnight Cleanse and Detox program is especially wonderful for people suffering from IBS or PCOS. I have both and after performing this detox, I feel better than ever! Because of PCOS, I haven’t had a menstrual cycle in four months. I cannot even begin to describe how bloated I have been. After just one detox, my bloating is gone, I don’t feel full all of the time and even my jeans fit better! This detox program was very gentle as I had no constipation, cramping or diarrhea. This is the quickest, easiest, most affordable and best tasting detox I have ever tried and I look forward to using this on a monthly basis!

PURCHASE INFORMATION: The 12 Hour Overnight Cleanse and Detox program includes 2- 3 ounce bottles for $9.99. Visit AgroLabs online or find a local retailer.

Disclaimer: I received the 12 Hr Overnight Cleanse and Detox in exchange for my honest review. I received no other compensation for my review. The opinions and thoughts expressed are my own.

Fit For Fall: Dead Sea Bath Salt Review

Dead Sea Salts are very popular and well known for its reputed therapeutic effects. Used  on a regular basis, Dead Sea salts can be effective in Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, and Osteoarthritis. They can also help with skin conditions such as Psoriasis and Eczema as well as Muscle Aches.

Mainely Naturals’ bath salts are made from salts derived from the Dead Sea. Their Dead Sea Salts also include natural ingredients such as sea salts, dendritic salt, jojoba oil and all natural fragrance derived from essential oils and natural extracts. Mainely Naturals uses only phthalate free fragrances, essential oils and all of their products are paraben free, natural and organic, and phthalate free.

Mainely Naturals sent me a 4.oz jar of their Artisan made Dead Sea bath salts in the Balance blend. It’s scented with a unique essential blend including grapefruit, cedarwood,geranium and oakmoss. This smells absolutely heavenly! It is difficult to explain the aroma because there are so many layers to the fragrance. It’s almost a floral-like fragrance, yet I can hint a “clean” fragrance along with woodsy undertones.

Straight from the bottle, the fragrance smells a bit strong. However, once added to running bath water or a foot soak, the scent is very mild and calming. I love adding this to my hot baths! The fragrance reminds me of the ocean and when using my Balance bath salts, I quickly forget my worries and remember my favorite vacation on the beaches in North Carolina.

The directions suggest adding 2-3 tbsp to bath water. I found that 2tbsp was the perfect amount and really made for a completely relaxing experience. These Dead Sea bath salts can be used alone, or use candles to add to your relaxation. Aside from the therapeutic qualities, I have also recognized an improvement in my Keratosis Pilaris. For those of you who are unfamiliar with KP, it’s basically extremely dry skin that causes the skin to look like you have goosebumps all of the time. My skin is much more hydrated and smooth and the “goose bumps” have visibly faded. Prescription creams for this condition can cost hundreds, so I am ecstatic to have discovered a much more affordable cure in Mainely Naturals!

Shop Mainely Naturals Dead Sea Bath Salts and other products online.

*Disclaimer: A sample product was provided to me in exchange for my honest review. The opinions and thoughts expressed are my own. I received no other compensation for my review nor was I under any obligation to give a positive review or host a giveaway.

Fit For Fall Sponsors: Coming August 15th, 2010

Chubby… Big-Boned… Plus Size… Thick… Full-Figured…Plump…

Flabby… Voluptuous… Curvy… Chunky… Shapely…

Yes- those are all names I have been called throughout the years. Maybe you’ve heard them too. Either way, it’s not important. What is important is loving ourselves for who we are. No matter our size, it is important to love our shape. 

Getting in shape, looking and feeling good isn't just about exercise. That’s why Simply Stacie, Little Yaya’s and Review Retreat have found the most amazing companies to help us relax, get our bodies into shape, and look good & feel good both inside and out.

Allow me to introduce you to our wonderful Fit For Fall Event Sponsors:

JumpStart

Yoga Clothing

KOR

Aurorae Yoga

Lauras Whole Some Junkfood

Jari Love

Free Nature Made Chewable Vitamin D Sample

 

Free Nature Made Chewable Vitamin D Tablets.

Offer good for U.S. residents only and while supplies last. One request per household. Allow 6-8 weeks for delivery.

CLICK HERE FOR YOUR FREE SAMPLE.

Nothing Too Big Or Small- Get In Shape With Fit For Fall

For many people New Year’s is the traditional occasion to set weight loss goals. I don’t know about you, but I am running way behind and far from achieving my fitness goals. 

It is not too late! No matter if your goals are to lose weight, tone up, gain weight, lower blood pressure or cholesterol, improve your self image or you just want to look and feel better, the “Fit For Fall” event will have exactly what you need to reach your desired goals!

FIT FOR FALL
Coming This August 15-28

I am honored to be co-hosting this event from the lovely ladies from Simply Stacie and Little Yaya’s. We are ready to get fit and we want you to join us! Be sure to grab our badge as a reminder- this is one event you do not want to miss out on!

We have more than 50 generous sponsors eager to help you get fit. To see all of the amazing prizes and sponsors, you will have to join us August 15-28th. I am very excited to to be hosting this event and because I adore all of my readers, here is a little sneak peak:

Aurorae Yoga

Jumpstart 
Vapur
Total Fitness DVD’s

Tazzini

BeachBody
Yoga Clothing
Jari Love

 Laura’s Wholesome Junk Food
 

RYN Shoes
Sorbee 
Health Score

Fit Deck

We have so many great prizes for you – Shoes, Fitness Apparel, Healthy Food & Snacks, Cookbooks, Games, DVD’s, Accessories, and much much more!

To find out more, be sure to come back August 15th. We can’t wait to see you there!

If your memory is anything like mine, you will need a reminder. Subscribe to Review Retreat by email to receive the latest updated regarding this HUGE event.

Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies Giveaway

Fiber is essential to live an active and healthy lifestyle. Children are no exception. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends at least 19 grams of fiber for children 2-3 years old. As our children get older, their recommended daily fiber intake increases. We do not always make the right food choices and often, unknowingly, fall below the recommended daily fiber intake. Thankfully, Pedia-Lax has created Fiber Gummies – a kid-friendly, sugar-free, calorie-free, gluten-free, natural fiber supplement for children ages 2-11. You may read my review here. Enter below for your chance to win!

Win It

One lucky Review Retreat reader will win a bottle of Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies!

How To Enter (required):

Visit Pedia-Lax and tell me another product you would like to try, or something new you learned.

Extra Entries (optional):

1. Follow Review Retreat publicly via Google Friend Connect. +1
2. Follow me on Twitter. +1
3. Enter the Pedia-Lax “Keep Kids Moving” Sweepstakes. +2
4. Blog about this giveaway with a link back to this post. Comment with the post link.  +5
5. Subscribe to my free newsletter. (remember to confirm) +2
6. Add my button to your sidebar and tell me where to find it. +3
7. Add me to your blog roll. +3
8. Enter the Pedia-Lax “Keep Kids Moving” Sweepstakes. +2
9. Leave a comment on any non-giveaway post. (limit 5 posts) +1 each
10. Tweet the following (up to 3x daily, include tweet link and do not tweet simultaneously) +1 each tweet

Is your #toddler getting enough fiber? Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies Giveaway @Jennifer_Marek #giveaway #contest #kids http://bit.ly/9nL5Bg

Details:
Giveaway begins on July 13, 2010 and ends on July 26, 2010 at 11:59 cst. Winner will be chosen using Random.org. Giveaway open to US Only.

*Disclaimer: A sample of PediaLax Fiber Gummies was provided to me in exchange  for my honest review. The opinions and thoughts expressed are my own. I received no other compensation for my review nor was I under any obligation to give a positive review or host a giveaway.

How Much Do You Pay For Health Insurance?

For most families, mine included, healthcare insurance is a priority. However, I have heard many people say “ I can’t afford health insurance”, but if you really think about it, how can you afford not to?

The Health Reform stated that in 2008, the average premium for a family plan purchased through an employer was $12,680 or equivalent to the the annual earnings of a full-time minimum wage job. Those costs sound very accurate if I consider premiums, deductibles, out of pocket expenses and the cost for prescriptions. Last year, my husband paid $135.00 weekly towards our medical premiums. The new 2010 healthcare reform bill is supposed to make healthcare more affordable. Imagine my shock when my husband brought home a memo stating our deductible would be increasing by more than $100.00 a week.

Needless to say, I was outraged by the increase. It’s hard enough to pay for the healthcare we desperately need. Now they want more money? When my husband told me about the changes, I immediately went online in search of quotes for group health insurance. I discovered my husband’s employer has the option to choose from several online group health plans such as HMO’s and PPO’s. We currently have a PPO which tends to be higher than an HMO plan because PPO’s allow the freedom to see any doctor without a referral. My husband notified his employer of the options available for medical group health coverage and we are waiting to find out if we can find a cheap health insurance plan.

Do you feel you overpay for health insurance? Besides opting for generic prescriptions, what ways have you found to help cut down costs?

Click Espresso Protein Drink Review and Giveaway

Protein is one of the body's main building blocks for muscle, bone, skin, and other tissues. I have tried several varieties of whey protein drinks as well as soy protein drinks. The reason I have tried a variety of brands is because I can never find one that actually tastes good. Sure, it may be packed full of protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, but if I need to hold my nose to gulp it down, I would rather pass.

I recently had the opportunity to try CLICK Espresso Protein Drink. CLICK is like no other protein drink mix on the market. It combines protein with double shot espresso to create a satisfying all-in-one energy drink. 

About Click

Greg and Beth Smith own a chain of women’s fitness centers in the Fresno, California area. They created CLICK after their search for a delicious, healthy, protein drink was unsuccessful. Every serving of CLICK includes 23 vitamins and minerals, a double shot espresso, 15 grams of protein and just 120 calories!

Mocha Nutritional Facts

Serving Size	2 Scoops (32g)
Calories	120
Total Fat Saturated Fat Trans Fat	1.5g 0g 0g
Cholesterol	less than 5mg
Sodium	115mg
Potassium	290mg
Total Carbohydrate Dietary Fiber Sugars	12g less than 1g 7g
Protein	15g

CLICK Mocha Protein also includes the essential vitamin and nutrients:  Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Folate, Vitamin B12, Biotin, Panthothenic Acid, Phosphorus, Iodine, Magnesium (oxide), Selenium, Copper, Manganese, and Chromium.

My Initial Thoughts

Based on the nutritional information, CLICK certainly appeared to be promising. With it’s high protein level, low calorie, low sugar and low carb content, CLICK definitely has everything a good protein drink should have.

I received my CLICK Espresso Protein drink during the time that my brother was home on leave before his next assignment. He servers in the military and is extremely fit and muscular. He consumes protein drinks on a daily basis so I asked him to tell me what he thought about CLICK. As he read over the label, he told me CLICK sounds like a great product and would be highly beneficial to me.

My Review

I received a 16 ounce canister of the Mocha blend and was very impressed by the sleek (Pink/black) packaging design. I also received the CLICK Shaker, which has a 20 ounce capacity and includes a whisk ball.

The instructions suggest CLICK can be enjoyed as a hot or cold beverage. Since it’s 100° in Texas, I opted for the cold version. I have been enjoying CLICK on a daily basis and have discovered when adding ice, it is best to mix water with your protein powder. Once the protein powder is blended well, you may add ice. The first time I prepared my protein drink, I added ice to water, then my protein powder. The protein powder adhered to the ice and did not mix well. CLICK tastes great without ice, but when ice is added it reminds me of my favorite Starbucks iced beverage. CLICK is smooth and chocolaty. Best of all – it tastes like a gourmet drink rather than a protein drink and there is no bad aftertaste.

When preparing my CLICK protein drink, I used the Shaker with the included whisk ball. My drink blended well each and every time. It was so nice to be able to enjoy my protein drink with out globs of powder. The shaker is clear and includes a pink and black CLICK logo. The lid is black with a white stopper. I love the design and feel comfortable taking my shaker cup with me. I was impressed by the non-leak design. I even dropped my shaker cup when it was full, and it didn’t leak a drop. The shaker cup, lid, and whisk ball are all dishwasher safe, which makes for easy cleanup. I enjoy mine quite often though, so I just rinse with soapy water and place on the drying rack.

Each serving of CLICK contains as much caffeine as a single cup of coffee. CLICK is a great alternative to sugary sodas and energy drinks. I absolutely love the taste! Finally, a delicious protein drink, I actually want to drink. I drink two glasses of CLICK a day, and would drink more, if I could without elevating my protein intake.

I was even surprised to find out my husband enjoys CLICK too. He doesn’t normally drink coffee, but he loved CLICK so much, he stole my shaker from me. When mixing CLICK without the shaker, the majority of the powder dissolves, but there is still a small amount that may surface to the top of the liquid. I would highly recommend the shaker cup, or two if you don’t want yours disappearing.

Besides tasting absolutely delicious, and delivering protein and essential vitamins and nutrients, CLICK gave me the energy boost I was looking for. It tastes better than coffee, has less sugar and kept me going throughout the day, without feeling jittery or crashing mid-morning. Purchase information is available below. To win a canister of CLICK complete with Shaker and whisk ball, enter my CLICK Giveaway.

Purchase Information

CLICK is available in two mouth-watering flavors – Mocha and Vanilla Latte. The cost of the 16 ounce canister is $25.95. CLICK may also be purchased by individual packets. The cost for 7-packets is $16.95 or $2.95 for 1-packet. The CLICK shaker with whisk ball is $5.95.

CLICK is available nationally on Amazon.com, GNC.com, Bodybuilding.com, Netrition.com, Vitacost.com and will soon be rolling out into The Vitamin Shoppe stores nationwide. Additionally, you may click here to view all online retailers and find a store near you.

Disclaimer: I received CLICK at no cost for review purposes. The opinions & thoughts expressed are my own. I received no other compensation for my review nor was I under any obligation to give a positive review.

Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies Review and Giveaway

We all need fiber in our diets and children are no exception. Foods rich in fiber are filling,  therefore high fiber foods discourage overeating. Fiber also helps to pass food through the digestive system and may protect against stomach and colon cancer as well as prevent constipation. Fiber also helps to lower LDL cholesterol, or in a child’s sake, help prevent high cholesterol as well as preventing diabetes and heart disease.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 19 grams of fiber for  2-3 year olds, 25 grams of fiber for 4-8 year olds and 26-31grams for 9-11 year olds.  As parents, we understand the importance of a high fiber diet, but you won’t hear your child begging for more fiber. Your child may eat fiber-rich foods, but he or she may not be consuming enough fiber. I know my son loves beans, but it can still be difficult to meet the daily recommended intake. 

Pedia- Lax Fiber Gummies are a great-tasting way to supplement your child’s daily fiber intake when fruits and veggies aren’t enough. Your child can get the same fiber in just 3 gummies as they would in 1/2 cup of broccoli. Besides being packed full of fiber, these gummies are gluten-free, sugar-free, calorie-free and are made with all natural fruit flavors.

These fiber gummies are kid-friendly penguin-shaped and easy to chew. I had no problems getting my two-year old to take Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies. In fact, he loved them so much he kept asking for more. Of course, mom had to try one as well. They taste just like fruit gummies- there is no medicine taste and no after taste. They did a wonderful job of regulating my sons bowel movements without making them runny. In addition, I feel confident giving Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies to my son because they are not medicine, not a laxative, just wholesome, healthy fiber. PediaLax Fiber Gummies are dentist approved and now, mom approved!

Cost

$7.99 for a 60 count bottle.

Where to Buy

Available in mass market retailers, drug stores and supermarkets nationwide. Find a local retail store.

GIVEAWAY

Win It

One lucky Review Retreat reader will win a bottle of Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies!

How To Enter (required):

Visit Pedia-Lax and tell me another product you would like to try, or something new you learned.

Extra Entries (optional):

• Follow Review Retreat publicly via Google Friend Connect. +1
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• Tweet the following (up to 3x daily, include tweet link and do not tweet simultaneously) +1 each tweet

Is your #toddler getting enough fiber? Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies Giveaway @Jennifer_Marek #giveaway #contest #parenting | http://bit.ly/cDezmU

Details:
Giveaway begins on June 13, 2010 and ends on June 23, 2010 at 11:59 cst. Winner will be chosen using Random.org. Giveaway open to US Only. Click here to view the complete giveaway rules/guidelines.

*Disclaimer: A sample of PediaLax Fiber Gummies was provided to me in exchange  for my honest review. The opinions and thoughts expressed are my own. I received no other compensation for my review nor was I under any obligation to give a positive review or host a giveaway.

Avocado Hummus Recipe

Hummus is a natural, vegan food than can pair well with nearly any diet. The main  ingredient in Hummus are Chickpeas, which are an excellent source of fiber. You can find countless Hummus variations in stores, but I prefer the taste of fresh, homemade Hummus. As much as I enjoy, Hummus, I also enjoy avocados, which are full of healthy fats and have numerous health benefits, such as lowering cholesterol, lowering blood pressure, and improving overall heart health. I have paired the two together for a delicious, healthy, gluten-free snack which is far more tastier than any store bought Hummus.

INGREDIENTS

1/2 lb cooked chickpeas, drained
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
4 tbsp fresh lemon juice
3 tbsp Tahini
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 cup low-fat plain yogurt
1 large avocado

PREPARATION

1. Cut avocado in half, and remove pit.
2. Drain beans and rinse until water runs clear. Puree beans and garlic in a food processor.
3. Add remaining ingredients and process until smooth and creamy. Add more salt and/or lemon juice if desired.
4. Transfer to a container, cover and chill until ready to serve.