I think we all know that sometimes, life gets in the way of our best intentions when it comes to our health, diet and exercise. And I’m living proof of that – even as a Fitness Professional. I recently completed my two year MSc which took priority and meant that my personal fitness routine took a back seat.
Inevitably, my attempts to eat well became less and less. And we all know that what we eat is as important, if not more important, to a well rounded exercise and fitness programme. I was unfortunate enough to then pick up 3 viruses in succession over the holidays which completely knocked me for six! January 2020 was a write off, so February… I’m coming for you.
Over the next month, I’ll be taking you along for the journey as I work on my fitness and eating with some support from Garden of Life. If you’re unfamiliar with the Garden of Life brand, then you’ll definitely learn more about them and their products over the following weeks.
Garden of Life are the No.1 whole food and plant-based supplement brand in the world. All of their products are ethically sourced, 100% traceable, non-GMO verified and much more. So I think we’re in good hands!
My Goals For The Month
For the last few weeks, I started to work on my fitness using a plan on the FIIT app which has been great for getting my workouts done at home. I also started to think about what I was eating and making more of an effort to cook meals from scratch. If you’re looking for recipe inspiration too, you can check out these 3 cookbooks I shared which are perfect for making quick meals.
Over the next 30 days, as my activity levels increase, I’ll be looking to support my body with a range of vitamins and supplements from Garden of Life to keep my energy levels high and maximise my recovery.
Here are the products I chose:
- RAW Organic Protein – Vanilla
- Raw Organic Fit Powder – Chocolate
- Mykind Organics Vegan D3 Vitamin Spray – Vanilla
- Vitamin Code Raw Zinc – 60 Capsules
Garden of Life Protein
I picked two versions of Garden of Life Protein – one in vanilla and the Fit Powder in chocolate. Both protein powders are vegan, raw and organic. The Raw Organic Fit differs from their other proteins as it has added ingredients such as green coffee bean extract, raw food created chromium and organic cinnamon.
Here’s a simple recipe I made using the Garden of Life Raw Organic Fit to make my post workout overnight oats:
- 1 scoop Raw Organic Fit – Chocolate
- 150g of jumbo oats
- 300ml almond milk
- 1/2 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 tbsp cacao nibs
- handful fresh blueberries
Blend the almond milk and Organic Fit powder together. Add the banana and pulse a few times. Pop all the other ingredients in a tupperware / bowl and add the liquid mixture. Stir to mix evenly and pop in the fridge ready for the morning. Serves 2.
Protein is a great supplement for active individuals as it contributes to a growth in muscle mass and supports your recovery.
When it comes to the things you should consider when choosing a protein powder supplement, the Garden of Life products do really well. They have no added sugar, contain natural sweeteners (where sweeteners are used), low levels of sodium (salt), do not contain soy and are certified organic.
Garden of Life Vitamins & Supplements
When it comes to vitamins, I’m always acutely aware of my own personal need for supplementation. Every blood test I take tells me that my vitamin D levels are bordering on insufficient – so I chose the D3 vitamin spray from Garden of Life to support me with that.
Low levels of vitamin D can cause fatigue, bodily aches, poor memory and difficulties concentrating. This can affect your sporting performance as well. With limited exposure to the sun during the Winter months, it can be difficult for us to get our daily requirement of vitamin D.
I’ll also be trying out the Raw Zinc capsule over the next 30 days. Zinc is a supplement that has come up during my research for my skin health (post-pill acne) and for supporting the female nobody when training (have you read Roar yet?!). Both of these areas are ones I could do with some support on right now!
Over the coming weeks, I have a lot planned! I’m about to start week 4 of the Sweat & Reset plan on Fiit, complete a week of the Do Better Ride cycling challenge, run 50km in total for February to make up for missing the Run Up To Christmas challenge and attend a weeks Triathlon Camp in Lanzarote.
I’ll be back in a couple of weeks with an update on how I’m finding the Garden of Life products and my progress. In the meantime, if you have any questions about Garden of Life, vitamins and supplements or what I’m up to, drop them in the comments!
Are there are supplements you use to support your lifestyle?
Elle
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