Hemp Food (Review for Manitoba Harvest)

 Lately, hemp has hit the market and will quickly become the newest health food trend. As someone with a passion for trying new healthy foods, and someone who's always up-to-date with the latest health food trends, I had to jump on the hemp food bandwagon. Special thanks to Manitoba Harvest for allowing me the opportunity to sample theirs -- a non-GMO hemp foods, which include Hemp Hearts (which are raw, shelled hemp seeds) and their variety of Hemp Protein powders.

I'm not kidding when I say hemp foods are a serious health food.  For instance, did you know that hemp has such a high nutritional value that it could be considered a super-food?

Here I'll be reviewing the samples I've been trying from Manitoba Harvest. I'll detail all of hemp's amazing health benefits, it's nutritional profile, ways to consume it, and even how it tastes (per my tongue's opinion.) Also in this review will be a comparison of hemp and other popular seeds such as chia to see which has the most bang for its buck.

So stick around and grab a bowl of your favorite snack food. Your stomach will thank you later, I promise. If you think you can handle reading about food without having something on-hand and ready to pack in, then more power to you, but don't say I didn't warn ya!

Let's start off with some specs on hemp seeds

- Hemp seeds do not contain THC like marijuana does.

- Hearty healthy.

Hemp Hearts

Aside from their interesting and satisfying flavor, hemp hearts (raw, shelled hemp seeds) contain 10 grams of plant-based protein and 10 grams of omegas (hemp contains both omega-3's and omega 6's.)

About Manitoba Harvest (Company Info)

Manitoba Harvest has a "natural" version of Hemp Hearts and an organic one. Keep in mind the sample I was sent is the natural Hemp Hearts. All Manitoba Harvest products are Non-GMO Project Verified, and Manitoba Harvest is a "Certified B Corporation." Click the icon below to view their report.

 Other qualifications of Manitoba Harvest (you can click each icon to read about them)

Kosher Certificate

Health and other Benefits:

- Hemp is an amazing source of protein, fiber, omegas and essential fatty acids.

- Immune system health

- Improved and shinier skin, nails and hair.

- Hemp contains the "good bacteria" that's necessary for healthy digestion.

- Hemp contains chlorophyll, which helps the body maintain pH balance.

-Hemp contains vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. 

- May improve kidney function.

- Contributes to a healthy immune system.

-Can improve fatigue.

Taste

Hemp Hearts, just like Manitoba Harvest says, have a very nutty flavor. Very nutty, slightly grassy.  That is the best way to describe them. The texture is somewhat like that of a cashew, but softer, although I have bitten some rigid hull bits after tossing in a handful and crunching down. They're slick, somewhat waxy, creamy, and chewy. They take on a slight sticky-ness while being chewed.  The flavor of hemp seeds are kind of like that of a peanut, but with a stronger nutti-ness and a tiny hint of grass. The flavor is surprisingly really tasty with an extremely fresh taste to them. In fact, I like these Hemp Hearts so much that I prefer eating them alone, not mixing them in foods and drinks!

 I sometimes like to do what I call the "kid test" when I'm trying a healthy food that I'll be reviewing later. The "kid test" is where I get my nieces and nephews to try the food and get their opinion so that I can report back in my review giving you folks an idea of how kids might take to the food product.

The kid test on the Hemp Hearts? Passed! My 5 year old niece who's the most picky eater I know and isn't fond of new foods responded really well to the Hemp Hearts! After pouring her a handful to eat (straight from her palm), she came back asking for more! 

As for the teenagers, I think these will pass for most of those too. Pretty much as long as the kid likes nuts, they'll like these. My 16 year old nephew was fond of them in yogurt. 
 

Hemp Hearts Vs Chia and Flax Seeds:

Something I learned from Manitoba Harvest that I didn't know before is that a serving (30 grams) of Hemp Hearts contain more omegas and proteins yet less carbs than a same serving of chia and flax.

Hemp appears to trump even whey powder. It's more easily digested than whey, it may contain more nutrition than whey, and require less hemp to consume than whey in order to get the nutrition.

To learn more about Hemp Hearts, check out this interesting infographic by Manitoba Harvest:

Other possible effects of eating hemp seeds:

-Some people notice a reduction in "junk food" cravings. This is something I hope to experience as I continue to eat Manitoba Harvest's hemp foods.

How to Use:

 One serving = 2 tablespoons (30 grams)

Manitoba Harvest recommends about 1-2 servings of Hemp Hearts a day.

Hemp Protein Powders 

Firstly, I'd like to start with some facts/information about hemp protein.

Hemp protein comes from the hemp seed and contains essential fatty acids, and all essential amino acids -- 20 amino acids total. Aside from the amazing source of EFA's and amino acids, hemp seed protein also contains fiber.

-Hemp is a complete, plant-based protein.

Hemp protein helps the body repair and regenerate, and if you didn't already know it, essential fatty acids (omega 3 and 6) have a huge impact on our health on so many different levels that it'd take an entire post just to cover them. To name a few though, EFA's are important for our brain health, cardiovascular health, nervous, immune and reproductive system. They help repair and cell membranes and help regulate heart rate, fertility, blood clotting, inflammation and more.

Note the recipe found on the back of the sample packets. The Hemp Pro 70 has an "Orange Vitality" recipe, which only requires orange juice and the rest is Manitoba Harvest products, including the packet of Hemp Pro 70. So this could easily just be added alone to some orange (or other) fruit juice.

The Hemp Protein powders, as well as the Hemp Hearts can be added to many different dishes including yogurt, cereals, oatmeal (which is really good, in my opinion), smoothies, other beverages, and even on salads.

To learn which of Manitoba Harvests' protein products best fit your specific needs, go here. 

Hemp Pro 70

HempPro 70 - Contains 20 grams of protein per 30 gram serving. 

It's water soluble and happens to be one of the higher protein-containing options.

Can be used in smoothies or shakes and if you're like me, a whole bunch of other foods too like yogurt, cereal, oatmeal, salads, etc. Since the powder has such subtle flavor to it, it can be added to so many different dishes that I've been able to try it on new food every day for the last 5 days. Yet to find a dish I disliked with the powder in it. Most of the time, I don't ever even taste it in the foods I eat.

Note: All Hemp Pro powders are raw, cold-milled hemp protein powder. The Hemp Pro Fiber is USDA Organic.

Hemp Pro 50: 

HempPro 50 - a raw, cold-milled, wholefood hemp protein powder. Contains 15 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber per 30 gram serving.

Hemp Pro Fiber:

HempPro Fibre - Contains 13 grams of fiber per 30 gram serving, over half the daily recommended intake of fiber. USDA Organic!

Notice the recipe on the back of the sample packet of Hemp Pro Fiber --  "Tropical Smoothie Paradise," which includes pineapple, coconut milk, and the rest are Manitoba Harvest products, including the Hemp Pro Fiber. Pretty simple, even for someone like me. 

The Hemp Pro Fiber can be mixed  into a smoothie, or even for baking and desserts such as muffins and bread. Checkout Manitoba Harvests'  recipe section to find different ways to use the powdered stuff. 

Taste & Ways to Consume: 

As for the Hemp Pro powders, the taste obviously isn't going to be eat-from-the-pack delicious for most people, but I actually don't mind it at all. As someone who's been taking her wheatgrass powder by the scoop (dry, with nothing else but a swig of water), I find the Hemp Pro powders totally tolerable to eat straight from the pack, if you're on the go.

If I don't have a drink on hand or time to grab one, I'll just pour the Hemp Pro powders into my mouth. The powders are so fine and mild tasting that it goes down easily, much easier than wheatgrass, actually.

 The taste of the powders is very subtle. It has somewhat of a sweetness to it, which is helpful. It's not strong at all
and it's extremely hard to pin-point an exact flavor or similar food/taste/flavor to really describe this stuff since it really has a taste of its very own and doesn't resemble much of anything.

The Hemp Pro Fiber is far more earthy tasting than the other protein powders. Totally tolerable, if not kind of tasty, but it does differ from the slight sweetness and less earthy taste of the others.

Like I said, it has a similarity to wheatgrass powder, but mostly just because they're both a fine powder that has a somewhat grassy taste, but the Hemp Protein powders aren't nearly as grassy tasting as wheatgrass. On the other hand, they aren't very nutty in flavor like the Hemp Hearts. 

As far as taste in a drink goes, the powder is rarely very noticeable in a drink. I sometimes feel it in my mouth, but rarely taste it in yogurt or shakes. When I say "feel it," I just mean that when I don't bother to really mix well, I sometimes get a clump in my mouth, but nothing that isn't easily tolerated. 

The powders seem to mix pretty well in beverages. There isn't a lot of clumping or settling of the powder. Shakes and thicker beverages like  smoothies allow for even better mixing and hiding, if you like to pretend there's no protein powder within your tasty beverage.

How to Use:
Simply scoop 4 tablespoons (30 grams) of Hemp Pro powders into your drinks, smoothies, foods, etc. Or go my route and simply dump a few mouthfuls straight onto your tongue and follow with a drink of water. This is a super easy way to take the powder in a hurry, or on-the-go.

  

 Manitoba Harvest also has a free e-book download called "7 Days of Free Smoothies," if you'd like to get some smoothie ideas and find new ways to indulge in hemp smoothies. You have to subscribe to their Hemp eNews via email to get it. There will be a pop-up as soon as you land on their site allowing you the option to enter your e-mail in order to subscribe and receive this e-book.

Aside from their e-book, Manitoba Harvest also has a page full of recipes that you can use for inspiration and ideas. I actually loved the huge variety of awesome different recipes they had listed, especially the breakfast foods. All the recipes go great with their Hemp Hearts. Some of my favorite recipes listed on Manitoba Harvest's recipe page are the "mid-day pick-me-ups section." 

which include recipes where you can make your own hemp bars with fruits mixed in and granola and trail mixes all of which look delicious.

I love their granola bars recipes that are easy and pretty quick to make, and they don't require a whole lot of ingredients that you wouldn't typically have on hand already, or have to search hard to find. Most of the ingredients are either in my house already or can be found at virtually any store near me.

Most of their recipes are versatile and allow you to tweak them to your preferences. The soups are next on my list to try, and of course, soup is always versatile so you can add or subtract whatever ingredients you like pretty much.

Results:
 
 While noticeable results from using most any product like hemp protein aren't always... well, very noticeable, I have to admit, compared to other products I've used like Mila seeds and chia seeds, and even my daily scoop of wheatgrass, Manitoba Harvests' hemp food products definitely seem to have the upper hand. In fact, despite the ubiquitous claims we often read about wheatgrass having impeccable benefits for not only our entire health in general, but also for the digestive system, I actually hardly ever noticed anything as far as how I feel, my digestive stuff, etc while using wheatgrass. I've been using wheatgrass on an almost daily basis for a year or more now and only rarely did I ever experience any change at all digestive-wise. Never did my IBS change due to the use of only  wheatgrass products, either. Wheatgrass is often said to have super positive benefits on IBS and similar health issues, but for me, it hasn't touched it.

Aside from that, I've always held onto the hope that wheatgrass does have the many health benefits, long-term that we all have read about, so I continue to use it. I like wheatgrass if it does in fact do all those amazing things for our bodies, but I can't honestly say it's had a noticeable impact in the way I feel or how my stomach & digestive system react to it. Perhaps in the very beginning of using wheatrgass products I experienced changes, but no longer.

That aside, the same boring stuff can be said for my experiences with chia seeds. Never have I noticed any change that I could physically feel or see and nothing in the way of digestive system issues and IBS. Unlike with wheatgrass though, I don't believe I have much reason to continue using chia seeds since finding out that the hemp foods contain so much more of the healthy "stuff" (omegas). 

If you recall earlier in this review, Manitoba Harvest showed us the difference in how much omegas are present in their hemp foods compared to other foods like chia seeds. It simply makes more sense to me to use hemp (and less of it to get the nice amounts of omegas). You would have to take more of the other products just to get the same amounts of omegas you get in a serving of the Manitoba Harvest hemp foods, so for now, I am too impressed not to go with hemp!

Pricing:

At the time of this writing, the Hemp Hearts come in at a little over $1 an ounce, and the Hemp Pro powder (70) is $24.99 for the smallest available pack, which is 11 ounces. The various powder prices vary depending.

Update:

So far, I've eaten the Hemp Hearts and the Hemp Protein powders for around 4-6 days
 and while I haven't experienced any change in how I feel or anything, I have had pretty rough stomach cramping every single day until today, and I figured out why. Hemp protein has a side effect of stomach cramping and digestive problems for some people. I didn't even put it together until my significant other mentioned that he heard plant based protein was actually hard to digest for some people. When he said that, it kind of clicked that the only change in my diet or life I've had over the last week is using the hemp, and since I woke up today and the cramping was gone for the first time, I thought it must be the hemp. Then I came home and looked into that being a side effect and found an article on LiveStrong which mentions stomach cramping and digestive problems being a side effect of hemp protein, so I'm pretty sure that was the cause. I thought I'd add an update letting you all know that if you tend to have a sensitive digestive system, or have IBS or related issues like I do, you'll want to start very small with hemp.

The problem for me was that I was downing an entire sample pack a day, and I think that's just a tiny bit too much on my stomach/digestive system.

Just a tip for folks like me with these stomach/digestive issues that you might want to consider starting off easy so you don't end up with problems or cramping like me. Things that are supposed to be beneficial for the digestive system, for some reason, can often also cause irritation to those of us with problems like IBS, so it's a nuisance, but from now on, I'll just be sure I don't consume so much of the hemp and take it from there. I feel like the benefits are too great to just not take it at all, so I'll just go slow with it and find the right "dose" for me. Then I will report back on that for those of you who want to follow along.

Update #2:
It's been 4 days since I posted the above update regarding the stomach cramps I was getting from adding too much hemp into my diet too rapidly. I've been experimenting with small doses, gradually since then and have found that a bit less than half a packet of Hemp Pro seems to be a pretty good amount for me without causing any stomach/digestive side effects at all. So about 2 tablespoons of the powder every day and I do really well, no stomach cramping. I honestly don't know what I was thinking taking so much in one day anyways like I was. So, for those of you who might also have digestive issues (like IBS) of your own, you might want to try one tablespoon a day for a few days, then go up to two when you feel comfortable. If you're able to handle the 1-2 tablespoons just fine for 3-4 days, then it's probably safe to up it one more tablespoon.

Disclaimer: I am not a specialist, expert, professional or doctor of any kind. Content on this blog is not intended to be taken as medical advice, diagnosis, treatment or advice of any sort. I'm simply sharing information about my own experiences and results from use of a product or activity in hopes of providing useful information to readers, not to be taken as a patient/medical adviser relationship. I am not responsible for what readers choose to do after viewing the content here. Furthermore, I do not hold an "exceptional" or other special relationship with any company mentioned on this site. I'm simply a consumer who worked with the company on a review that is in compliance with FTC's guidelines. That means, everything you read here is my own words, not anything of the company's. I was not provided with monetary compensation for my review. All information posted has been done so with complete honesty. No action should be taken based solely on the content of this publication ( I'm not responsible.) Readers who rely on the information in this blog to replace the advise of an appropriate health care provider assume all risks of such behavior.

JumpStart Energy Supplement Review

JumpStart Sample Packets

Jump Start is an energy + mood supplement from Kyle 4 Organics or "Organics Manufacturer.com.

 As their name suggests, Kyle 4 Organics is an organic supplement online store, and also the manufacturer of JumpStart.

I have had the fantastic opportunity to try  different supplements from the JumpStart line:  JumpStart Extreme,  and JumpStart Wow.

JumpStart Wow (orange) and JumpStart Extreme

 I wanted to try them in sample sizes before committing to a full bottle because for one, I wasn't sure if they would actually provide me with the type of mood and energy stimulation I was looking for, and secondly, I really wasn't sure if the Extreme version or regular would be best. I've used them both now and will explain everything, including the results and differences. 

What drew me to Organics Manufacturer when looking into an energy/mood stimulant was that while I needed to test out different ones to find the right one for me, I knew that safe, natural ingredients were a must. The ingredients in the JumpStart supplements are actually quite impressive (I will get to that in a moment) and I find that they work very well for my needs.

JumpStart Extreme -- Red Capsules.

The difference between JumpStart and JumpStart Extreme and JumpStart Wow!:

Basically, as you probably guessed, both supplements are about the same thing with the same ingredients, but one is designed to be more well, extreme. For when you need an even bigger energy boost. The Extreme version of JumpStart just contains a higher amount of the active ingredients.

JumpStart Wow is designed to give you the same effect (energy, mood), but is designed to help decrease appetite and burn fat.

Aside from that, the label say to expect:

•  Super energy levels
• Elevated mood and confidence
• Decreased appetite

Suggested Dosage:

Each capsule contains 820mg,

JumpStart Extreme: The label recommends taking 2 capsules with plenty of water and a snack 20 minutes afterwards.

JumpStart (Regular): Also 2 capsules with water and a snack, for the average person. This is the recommended starting dose. The label says you can increase after you've gotten used to them. 

JumpStart Wow: 2 Capsules with water and a snack.

Note:  Organics Manufacturer recommends fruit as a snack because it "enhances the effects and prevents possible stomach irritation."

I've never had any fruit on hand while taking JumpStart or I would have tried it.

As for me, I started with one capsule whether I was taking the JumpStart regular or JumpStart Extreme. I didn't want to over-do it and end up with the shakes or stomach discomfort, which can happen. 

There have been days when I've taken 2-3 capsules throughout the day (3 max), but never all at once as one capsule does just fine for me, and anymore would likely give me stomach discomfort.

Since JumpStart comes in capsule form, they are easy to swallow, and I usually notice the effects within 10-20 minutes tops. I've never taken one of these JumpStart capsules and not gotten any results, so they're pretty mighty little suckers, and they will certainly put more pep in your step or make you more alert and energetic if you're tired.

What the Label Says to Expect:  

• Increased energy boost (in balance)
• Enhanced focus
• Enhanced stamina and performance
• Heightened sense of well-being
• Increased ATP production
• Increased carbohydrate conversion into energy
• Increased oxygen utilization

My Experience and Results: 

 JumpStart shares number 1 on my absolute favorite energy supplements -- and there are only 3 favorites. 

I happened to like JumpStart equally as much as my all-time, top favorite energy supplement ever. Never thought I'd say that!  

Among those three favorites of mine, all of them are natural, herbal-based supplements and work better than anything I have ever tried & if you guys have been following my posts for long, you know I have used a lot of energy products. 

I worried that JumpStart would give me similar effects as Stackers or Yellow Jackets -- which I've never loved. Those make me feel awful!

Me on speed (image source: wwwandyco-andy.blogspot.com )

The stimulation/energy I get from taking JumpStart is very different from that of a Stacker or Yellow Jacket.

 One way to explain it is, I don't feel like I've done 

some kind of speed.

 I feel balanced, somewhat more pleasant, calmer headed and like doing more.

The effects usually aren't intense, but incredibly noticeable. I can go from being dead exhausted to actually feeling like doing some activity for a few hours before I start feeling the exhaustion come through again. 

Image source: FamousQuotesAbout.com

I don't know if this makes sense, but I describe the energy from JumpStart as a nice, "clean," energy that stimulates and kind of wakes up my mind.  

For me, it's my mind-exhaustion that can get me down the most. It effects a lot of my work and just happiness in general, so I got on this kick to try and change things around (and have taken so many different supplements for it) and that's where I came across Jump Start Energy.

I'd tried energy drinks, foods and supplements that made me feel jittery and talkative, but they never did exactly what I needed -- a brain wake up! That is why I'm so fond of JumpStart Energy's effects on me.

I notice that my head is clear (and I've not experienced that often in my life!) and I actually can handle work or activity that requires challenging thought processes. 

Me at work, with little energy or calm-mind

Image source: 123rf.com

Me after JumpStart:

Image source: www.blotter-paper.com

And instead of feeling that burst of talkative, jittery energy that I get from caffeine, I feel calm, but energized which I really like because when I was using caffeine-type energy products, I would get short-winded and feel dizzy and lightheaded, or just icky when I'd get to doing  strenous activity,  but JumpStart doesn't do that to me.

 I'll get more work done and be more energized and feel like doing it, and that's what I like -- feeling like doing things. I always do my best when I feel it. Does that make sense to anyone but me?

As for the increased endurance and stamina -- yes. I notice that as I'm able to do more work (say housework, minimal exercise, or other similar activity) and feel like completing it without getting all tired out before I'm done. I'd say I'm more productive with JumpStart.

On the other hand, it doesn't give me the stamina and endurance as, say, Maca powder to the point where I can get in a tough, extreme workout on my fitness pole for much longer than I usually get in on a typical day. 

Now to the ingredients and what they do, so we have a better understanding of how JumpStart Energy works:

•  DL-Phenylalanine:    A 1985 study found that DLPA improved the mood and mood stability of subjects with attention deficit disorder, and claimed that phenylalanine can increase mental alertness (Grevet et al. 2002.)

•  L-Tyrosine:  Tyrosine has been tested on humans for increasing their endurance to anxiety and stress under fatigue. It was proven in research studies that tyrosine supplementation results in increased performance over a control group (Avraham et al. 2001).

•  Rhodiola Rosea: I've taken this supplement in its pure form, too with great results. 

Rhodiola Rosea, like Maca, is an adaptogen, which you know if you read my recent Maca post, helps your body deal with stress. 

However, Rhodiola works differently in the body when combined with other herbs like Siberian Ginseng (also in the JumpStart Supplements.) Together, it's possible that the two provide a "therapeutic alternative to established adaptogens.

• Siberian Ginseng: Also an adaptogenic. Enhances sexual and athletic performance and is an immune system-booster. 

In fact, in every energy supplement I take on a frequent-regular basis, I always make sure it contains Siberian Ginseng (and sometimes Korean and other species, too.) That's because I love the energy it provides.

•  Schizandra: A stimulating herb used to treat chronic fatigue.
  

• Guarana : A stimulant and appetite suppresant that contains a lot of caffeine. Helps maintain stamina and physical endurance.
  

• JumpStart also contains  Magnesium, Vitamin B3, B6, B12, C

(Source where I found those bits of information: Organics Manufacturer)

If you visit the link above, you can read even more detailed information about each of the ingredients in the JumpStart supplements. 

ATP Production and What it Does For Us

 

 Another reason I was very drawn to  JumpStart Energy is because it increases ATP (Adenosine Trisphosphate) production, which upon researching to learn more about how to change my energy levels mentally and physically, as well as learning how to overcome melancholy, I read that ATP production is required for everything we do including thinking, walking, talking, etc. and that it is the only source of energy that our body can use.

ATP, as far as my understanding goes, is basically our primary source of power and energy. ATP is also used to increase muscle strength and endurance.

Here is a piece on NCBI talking about a study done on the effects of a supplement designed to increase ATP Levels on muscle strength, power, output, endurance. 

It basically states that there wasn't enough information to conclude that an increase in ATP levels effected things such as strength and endurance. However, I've heard so many people who use ATP increasing supplements religiously and successfully for those exact uses (muscle strength, endurance, etc).

Take Iron Man magazine, for example. They stated that any supplement containing ATP should (theoretically) result in "increased energy during high-intensity exercise like body-building training."

They also mention a study done where 5 mg per kilogram of body weight of an oral ATP supplement, and that it led to an increase in ATP production. They later mention the study done on humans, which did not suggest the same, for humans.

However, like I said, talking to people who have used ATP will tell you that they do notice a difference in some area or another. For instance, energy levels. I experience that from taking a supplement (JumpStart) that contains ATP. 

Side Effect

Now, the only "side effect" I experience when I take Jumpstart (besides the feel good energy) has been a slight stomach discomfort. 

The only thing I don't like is that there have been a few times when I did experience slight stomach discomfort, although it is always temporary (lasting only a few minutes, never longer). 

Keep in mind that this only happened when I take JumpStart upon first waking up. Just like coffee upsets my stomach if I drink it upon waking (not sure why it effects me that way.) But any time later after first waking up, neither JumpStart nor coffee give me any trouble.

My stomach tends to be very sensitive though, so I'm pretty happy that I can take JumpStart without it causing me real stomach issues.

Also important to note is that I didn't eat any fruit, but did counteract the slight discomfort with a bland snack like a cookie. 

The "discomfort" I experience is best described as slight stomach gurgling, if that makes sense. It just seems that my stomach is a little more active and I feel it, but it isn't anything painful or bothersome enough that I can't go on about my day by no means. It's also not so bothersome that it prevents me from continuing to take JumpStart, and happily. In this case, the benefits far outweigh the possible, occasional discomfort, for me.

Does JumpStart Cause Crashing?

Besides being natural, safe and very effective, I also love that there is not any crash for me after I take JumpStart! Even if it's worn off and I'm dead tired, I don't feel any crashing effects at all.

Image source: www.whicheb5.com

Organics Manufacturer products, like the JumpStart supplements are NON-GMO, gluten and soy free, and use no artificial ingredients or preservatives.

If you haven't ever heard of, or ordered from Kyle 4 Organics or Organics Manufacturer, I recommend starting with their "Company" page to learn more about them, their mission, their natural supplements and how they operate.

So, which energy supplements are your favorites? Do you guys use JumpStart, too? Let me know your thoughts in the comments section!

Pearl Of The Day: Naturopathica Pumpkin Enzyme Peel

                 Pumpkin Purifying Enzyme Peel     

If Pumpkin Pie is your favorite warm, comforting and delicious scent, then you’re going to be just as delighted as I was to try a Pumpkin Pie Enzyme Peel for your face.  As much as I adore this pumpkin facial peel (and not only because it smells tasty), there’s only one problem, I crave pumpkin pie every time!

Okay, guys, another skincare “fad” recently has been pumpkin, mostly due to the enzymes in pumpkins and well, enzymes are good for skin. So I was beyond pleased to get my hands on Naturopathica’s amazing Pumpkin Purifying Enzyme Peel, even more pleased after using the stuff. 

So, what does it do?

The pumpkin Enzyme Peel is good for normal to oily skin. I have combination and one of my favorite things about this peel is that it’s literally the only thing that has not dried my skin out! I was able to leave it on well over the 3-5 minute recommendation without an dryness. It actually seemed like it may have hydrated my skin somewhat. 

The active ingredients in the Pumpkin Enzyme Peel include: Pumpkin, Cinnamon Bark, Pumpkin Enzymes, Oregano and Rosemary Extract. 

These are all very beneficial for skin. The Pumpkin is good for exfoliation, has anti-oxidant properties and is a mild retinoic acid substitute. 

The Pumpkin Enzymes work to break down and remove dead skin cells. This is what leaves you with such smooth skin.

Cinnamon bark, Oregano and Rosemary have anti-septic properties. 

Full ingredient List:

 Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin), Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Wine, Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment Extract, Lactic Acid (L), Glycerin, Aqua/Water/Eau, Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Cinnamomum Zeylanicum (Cinnamon) Bark Extract, Origanum Vulgare (Oregano) Leaf Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Flower/Leaf Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract, Hydrastis Canadensis (Golden Seal) Root Extract, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Leaf Oil, Ginger Oil, Potassium Sorbate.

As you would expect the Pumpkin Enzyme Peel is a bright orange color and looks very much like the innards of a pumpkin pie. Smells a lot like one, too, which just makes the experience even more lovely. I will have to apologize for not taking a photo of the actual Peel. I guess I got carried away once I opened the sample packet.

Results:

I was able to get two uses out of Naturopathica’s Pumpkin Enzyme sample packet. And believe me, I used every last bit of the stuff. As I was showering a few minutes ago, I found myself tearing the packet open just to get the very last bits of the Pumpkin Peel that was stuck in the corners of the packet. No way was I tossing that packet with any of the stuff left over. 

Not only am I in heaven over the smell of Naturopathica’sPumpkin Enzyme Peel, but I’m also pretty happy with the results I seen from using the sample. Here’s how I’d describe them:

Clean, smooth and fresh looking skin. And I’m being serious. I noticed a very big difference in the texture of my skin, which is something a lot of products have claimed to do – enhance skin’s “texture.” I’ll have to say, I never quite knew what that meant… or what it was like to actually experience those claims until I used this Pumpkin Enzyme Peel. 

The Pumpkin Enzyme Peel would likely be very beneficial for acne and other inflammation of the skin. I can’t say I totally noticed a change in acne, but if I continued using the product, I would certainly think it could benefit blemishes. I noticed that a slight spot on my cheek that I’ve had from acne in the past seemed to look a lot less noticeable. Mostly, I noticed my skin had a lovelier appearance, in general. A really clean, super smooth appearance as well as minimized pore size. Putting my makeup on was a different experience than what  I am used to – everything was so smooth! Not just to the touch, but it looks incredibly smooth, if this makes sense. 

It’s also possible that the Pumpkin Enzyme Peel did contribute to my face not breaking out the very day after going crazy poking and prodding at tiny bumps. I often get to picking and always end up with a big red bump in the area I had been picking the very next day. I’m thinking the Pumpkin Peel could’ve been part of what prevented the crazed red bumps from my crazed night of picking. 

These things, folks, are why Naturopathica's Pumpkin Enzyme Peel is my Pearl of The Day. Even if it has had me looking up pumpkin pie drink recipes lately. I think I'll have to try this one before I die of pumpkin desire. P.S. consuming pumpkin is good for your skin, too!

As for the Vitamin C Revitalizing Complex and the Plant Stem Cell Serum, I'm very fond of those as well. The Vitamin C Revitalizing Complex  contains antioxidants, Vitamin A, C and E, and Kudzu. The ingredients are designed to reduce the signs of aging. 

The impressive active ingredients in the Vitamin C Revitalizing Complex are:

Vitamin C: Ascorbic Acid Polypeptide and Ascorbyl Palmitate are combined in a liposome delivery system for increased penetration and stability to inhibit free radical damage.

The Vitamin C serum goes on clear, smooth and doesn't leave this funny-feeling almost sticky and shiny residue left behind on my skin, as most "serums" have done in the past. My skin feels nice, smooth and looks good.

The Plant Stem Cell Serum -- also great about going on without leaving visible residue behind -- also contains antioxidants. Along with it, butterfly bush to protect skin from harmful UV damage. Echinacea is a key ingredient that improves collagen synthesis -- to reduce wrinkles.

The results are smooth, firm, soft, glowing skin

All three are very effective and have some of the most amazing ingredients I've ever seen as far as effeciacy goes in skincare products. Very, very impressive.

Reasons to Love Naturopathica Products:

-          Barbara Close, a clinical esthetician, aromatherapist and herbalist created the company Naturopathica.  Naturopathica uses high-performance, natural and active skin care ingredients that are proven effective, non-irritating and 100% good for the skin.

-Naturopathica products are never tested on animals.

-Naturopathica uses a holistic (the best, in my opinion) approach to skincare.