"Anti-Energy" Drinks

Within the last few years Energy Drinks have become increasingly more popular. But not everyone wants or needs that extra boost. There are many people who are naturally hyperactive and could use a bit of a wind down instead.

With this in mind, there are two companies that have come out with there own versions of an "Anti-Energy Drink." These drinks are infused with herbs and other calming ingredients including theanine, chamomile, valerian root, passiflora and melatonin.

The two drinks that I have come across are called Slow Cow, made in Canada and Drank, made here in the U.S.A.

Drank is endorsed by many members of the hip-hop community, including Keri Hillson who is shown sipping the beverage in one of her recent music videos. Drank is reported to be hitting 7/11 Stores across the Country throughout this year and is marketed as the first extreme relaxation drink, with it's catch phrase, "Slow Your Roll."

I have never been a huge fan of energy drinks and feel about the same when it comes to these new anti-energy drinks. I would be curious to try one of the the drinks to see how it works, but there are many other natural methods of relaxation that I would feel more comfertable using, things like meditaion, deep breathing or just winding down and watching a movie. Also items like these tend to have unknown side effects because they are not fully inspected by the FDA and I would be very cautious when trying these new beverages as well as energy drinks currently on the market.

Here are some links to learn more about these products:

http://www.drankbeverage.com/

http://www.slowcowdrink.com/english.asp?no=122

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fbacPUaGNf0

How to Avoid Fast Food!

Its not always easy to eat healthy on a busy day when your running from one place to another but it is not impossible. The first step to avoiding the fast food temptation is to plan ahead. Pack well balanced lunches the night before a busy day in order to prevent eating out or even keep a few healthy snacks (granola, nutrition bars) in your car in order to avoid cravings and to hold your appetite off until you can eat a real meal. Everyone knows that you should always drink plenty of water, so try keeping a bottle with you or in your car at all times.

For those who may find planning ahead difficult another alternative to stopping at the first burger joint you see would be to stop at a convenience store instead. Gas station quicky marts do not sound like the best place to buy your food, but if you are on the go and want to eat relativity healthy you can you can commonly find acceptable snacks to hold you over. Look for things like small packs of nuts granola or nutrition bars and single serving packs or whole grain cereal, some of these places even have a section with fresh fruit! Try to combine snacks so that you get a balance of protein and carbs which should help stop some of your junk food cravings.

Lastly if you find it impossible to avoid fast food all together, at least be willing to compromise what you order. Menus these days have added healthy alternatives like fruit and yogurt parfaits or side salads. If you still are finding yourself at the drive through line try to at least substitute your fries and soda with some healthy alternatives, but watch out for calories and fats in dressing if you decide to go with the salad. If you need to order a cheese burger try ordering a classic rather than a double or quarter pounder.

Most importantly just be aware of what you are eating, try to plan ahead as much as possible, avoid processed foods and saturated fats, and stay balanced!